Ayla Dillard

Ayla Dillard serves as the Director of Communications at The Center for Connection, where she also supports the Center’s co-founder, Dr. Tina Payne Bryson. In her role, Ayla oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of Dr. Bryson’s speaking engagements, manages consulting and collaboration contracts, and cultivates partnerships domestically and abroad.

In addition to event and partnership management, Ayla supports select communications initiatives for the Center and offers operational support through vendor coordination, payroll and benefits administration, speaking and collaboration coordination, and a range of other projects as needed.

Before joining The Center for Connection, Ayla worked as a marketing consultant, helping organizations strengthen their communications around training events, conferences, and other programs. She is a graduate of Stanford University and a certified mediator, bringing a collaborative, relationship-centered approach to both her professional work.

Outside of work, Ayla enjoys spending time outdoors and is passionate about hiking, trail running, and adventure sports. After a serious injury in 2021, she has embraced the ongoing journey of returning to walking, running, hiking, and soon all of the activities she loves, finding both challenge and joy in rebuilding strength and overcoming physical challenges.