Quintina Barnett Gallion

headshot of Qunitina Barnett Gallion

Associate Executive Director, Strategy and Planning

Strategy & Planning Division

Quintina leads with clarity, intention, and a deep commitment to learner-centered transformation. A strategist by training and a connector by nature, she’s known for translating bold ideas into practical solutions, whether guiding organizational change, navigating federal policy shifts, or amplifying community voices.

Quintina is a crisis-prepper and a clarity-seeker. She asks the tough questions and refines until the message lands. No fluff, just forward motion calibrated to empower her team and elevate learners.

A first-generation college graduate and lifelong advocate for access, fairness, and justice,  Quintina draws on a rich background in communication strategy, ethnographic research, and public service. She’s shaped impactful programs for veterans, foster youth, and international learners, and brings both systems thinking and heart to everything she builds.

Quintina holds an MS in Mass Communication – Communication Strategy from Virginia Commonwealth University, a BS in Business Administration and Sociology & Anthropology from Washington & Lee University, and a Digital Marketing certification from Georgetown University. She lives and works in Washington, D.C., the lands of the Nacotchtank (Anacostan), where she enjoys practicing Kung Fu and biking with her husband and children.



Quintina's Role at AACRAO

Quintina is the executive lead responsible for AACRAO's position in the field of higher education administrators. She synchronizes all association staff, activities, and offerings to fulfill AACRAO's five strategic goals.