Liz Burnette

For Liz, motherhood and higher education have been deeply intertwined, shaping her drive to ensure that student parents are recognized, valued, and given the resources they need to succeed. Becoming a parent during college came with immense challenges, but it also deepened her determination to build a world where young parents are visible, supported, and thriving—not just surviving.

She recently completed her bachelor’s degree at UW-Madison, where she balanced full-time school, parenting, and work while building community with other young and single parents in education. Her experience navigating higher education as a young mother fuels her commitment to ensuring that student parents are seen, supported, and empowered.

During her time at UW-Madison, Liz participated in research on student parents through, supported the formation of Young Parent Collective, and contributed to non-traditional parenting workshops and university-led initiatives. Through these efforts, she has worked to amplify the voices of young parents and advocate for policies and resources that recognize their unique challenges and strengths.

Liz is dedicated to reshaping narratives around young parenthood and exploring the needs and experiences of student parents beyond outdated stereotypes. She believes that young parents are not cautionary tales but thriving students, professionals, advocates, and caregivers who deserve visibility, support, and opportunities to succeed.