ALP Ambassador Spotlight: Alisha Blain-Warner
We’re proud to shine a spotlight on Alisha Blain-Warner, Director of Leadership Thurston County in Olympia, Washington. A proud Thurston County native, Alisha’s leadership journey is a story of vision, persistence, and a deep commitment to community.From Events to Empowerment
Alisha began her career at the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce the day after her 23rd birthday in 2007. While serving as Events Coordinator, she was drawn to the Chamber’s Leadership Thurston County (LTC) program, having been active in student leadership through ASB and summer camps. Though it took a few tries to secure her spot in the program, her persistence paid off. She graduated from LTC in 2014 and stepped into the Director role in 2016, just as she had envisioned years earlier.
Creating New Pathways
Alisha’s leadership continues to evolve with the launch of Youth LTC in 2024, a brand-new initiative created in partnership with New Market Skills Center. This program expands the reach of leadership development to high school students, helping the next generation find their voice and civic path early in life.
Guided by Community and ALP
As an ALP Ambassador and co-champion of the Chamber-Based Programs Affinity Group, Alisha shares her passion for leadership across the ALP network. "I have gotten so much out of my ALP membership, and I was already sharing my experience, so it just made sense to step up and support ALP."
Alisha credits ALP with not only supporting her program’s evolution, but with helping Leadership Thurston County navigate the challenges of 2020 without canceling a single program. “I never felt alone; I always had someone willing to share ideas and feedback. My program wouldn’t be where it is today without the support and connections made through ALP.”
Words to Live (and Lead) By
Alisha is known for her vibrant and uplifting presence, guided by a few favorite philosophies:
- Own the energy you bring into the room.
- Don’t be a problem seeker.
- Treat everyone like it’s their birthday.
- Leave people and places better than you found them.
Outside of her leadership work, Alisha coaches the North Thurston High School Dance Team and serves as a Team Counselor for the Association of Washington School Principals Student Leadership Program at Cispus each summer. She’s also a proud wife and mom, raising two young children, Noah and Annora, with her husband, Ryan.
Connect with Alisha
We’re proud to highlight Alisha’s journey and her impactful contributions to ALP and Community Leadership Programs nationwide. Get connected with Alisha or follow her organization:
LinkedIn: Alisha Blain-Warner
Leadership Thurston County: Website | LinkedIn
Thank you, Alisha, for all you do to grow leaders in Thurston County and across the ALP community!