With over two decades of experience in higher education, Dr. Steven Crawford has established a distinguished career at the intersection of instructional innovation, faculty development, and educational technology. As the District Director for the Maricopa Center for Learning and Innovation, he leads large-scale initiatives that support faculty within one of the nation’s largest community college systems, the Maricopa Community Colleges. His work has encompassed roles in instructional design, curriculum development, and online learning leadership at institutions such as Arizona State University and Old Dominion University. A frequent presenter and contributor to national organizations like Quality Matters, EDUCAUSE, and the League for Innovation, Steven is recognized for his ability to translate emerging technologies into meaningful learning experiences. This same passion for craft and detail extends into another area he’s deeply committed to—distilled craft spirits.

More importantly, Steven is an explorer who likes to share. He has led distillery tours and tastings at Outlaw Distillery (formerly Adventurous Stills) for several years. He enjoys guiding people to discover craft spirits through storytelling and, of course, tasting them. He enjoys hosting tasting events where he introduces participants to the various Bourbons, American Single Malts, Rye Whiskeys, Rums, and Gins made in Arizona.

He can also be found on the trails of Arizona as an avid trail and ultra runner. Whether he is running in the Grand Canyon, the Bradshaw Mountains, the Mogollon Rim, or the deserts in between, he enjoys being out there and exploring Arizona. His most memorable race finishes include the Whiskey Basin Trail Runs, Black Canyon Ultras, Javelina Jundred, Stage Coach 100, BADWATER Salton Sea, and the Cocodona 250.

This desire to wander, connection to the land, and craft spirits define Steven as The Whiskey Rover. He is always ready with a dram and a story. He looks forward to sharing the story of Arizona Craft Spirits in his forthcoming book.