The Director of Digital Learning with the Friday Institute for Educational Innovation at NC State University, Emma Braaten leverages her 22 years of experience as a former district Chief Technology Officer and Digital Learning Director, Digital Learning Specialist with NCDPI, School Librarian, and Classroom Teacher to inform research and application in the K-12 setting and beyond. She works collaboratively with stakeholders to support the effective implementation of instructional practices, content standards, and technology to make learning more accessible for all learners – both adults and students. Her work currently focuses on addressing educational disparities to ensure that all students have access to high-quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances; advancing education through innovative approaches and practices, including the integration of emerging technologies and tools; and influencing broader educational policies and practices that can have systems-level impact. Braaten’s strengths range from visioning, strategic planning, and goal-setting to operationalizing and making research actionable in districts, schools and classrooms.