As the strategy manager for high school innovation, Cion advances MCAN’s work in strengthening school systems and college access practitioners through professional development, curriculum design, grant management, and technical assistance. He also supports the organization's equity and inclusion goals through the implementation of program audits and the development of new initiatives.

Prior to joining MCAN, Cion worked as a residence director at Michigan State University with a focus on student development through curricular programming. Prior to that, he was employed as a living center director and taught college readiness courses at Grand Valley State University. Cion is an Americorps alum who served two terms with Michigan State University College Advising Corps, where he worked to improve college-going rates among underrepresented student populations.

As a first-generation student from a school system lacking resources to prepare students for college, Cion initially had little interest in pursuing formal education after high school. With the help of a mentor, however, he learned about the value of pursuing a degree. Cion started his postsecondary journey at Washtenaw Community College, where he discovered a passion for improving college access and supporting student success. He transferred to Michigan State University, where he completed an undergraduate degree in interdisciplinary studies. Later, he returned to school to earn a Master of Education in higher education at Grand Valley State University.

Outside of work, Cion enjoys running, traveling, and exploring cities with an amateur urban planner’s eye.