Rate My Professor Ali Norton

Ali Norton serves as Tautiaki (Warden) of Carrington College at the University of Otago, leading and managing all aspects of the residential community to provide an exceptional experience for tauira (residents). Her qualifications include a Bachelor of Journalism and BA (Honours) from Carleton University, and a Master of Science in student development from Western Illinois University. With an extensive background in community-based living, she works collaboratively with college staff to foster a supportive environment where residents feel empowered to be themselves, build friendships, engage in new experiences, and pursue their goals.

A native of Canada and dual citizen of Australia, Norton began her university studies intending to pursue journalism as a sports reporter, driven by her passion for sports. Her career pivoted after taking on residential assistant roles, leading her to specialize in student residential life and support. Over 13 years prior to joining Otago (as of 2020), she held positions at five universities across Canada, the United States, and Australia, including Residence Director, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator, Senior Residential Supervisor (Senior Warden), and Senior Consultant for Violence Prevention and Support at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa in Honolulu, where she met her husband, Dr. Courtney Ennis, a postdoctoral researcher from Western Australia. She later served as Senior Residential Supervisor heading a college and Health and Wellbeing Coordinator for Melbourne-based residential students at La Trobe University. Following a family gap year traveling in Africa and Europe, the family relocated to Dunedin in late 2019 when Dr. Ennis joined Otago's Chemistry Department as a lecturer. Norton briefly worked as a Change Adviser in University Human Resources before transitioning to her current role at Carrington College, which aligns perfectly with her passion for direct student interaction. She resides on-site with her husband, toddler son Paddy, and golden retriever x miniature poodle Freo. An avid sports fan of ice hockey, Aussie Rules Football, and basketball, she also enjoys camping, the beach, live music, and travelling. Residents are encouraged to visit her in Linton House.