Dr. Lisa Coleman Bio

Dr. Lisa Coleman is a distinguished thought leader, consultant, and trusted advisor to C-suite executives and boards. With a career spanning across diverse sectors, including higher education, government, technology, and corporate industries, Dr. Coleman has established herself as a highly experienced senior professional.

As the Senior Vice President for Global Inclusion and Strategic Innovation at New York University (NYU), Dr. Coleman leads the charge in driving innovation and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the institution. Her role extends beyond academia, influencing the corporate world and tech industries alike. She specializes in strategic organizational assessment, research, fundraising, and program development, making her a prominent figure in shaping the future of these fields.

Professional Experience

• Senior Vice President, Global Inclusion and Strategic Innovation

  • New York University
  • October 2017 - Present (6 years)

• Chief Diversity Officer and Special Assistant to the President

  • Harvard University
  • February 2010 - August 2017 (7 years, 7 months)

• Africana and Institutional Diversity

  • Tufts University
  • 2000 - 2010 (10 years)

• Independent Technology/Computer Consultant

  • Independent
  • August 1992 - August 2001 (9 years, 1 month)

During her tenure at NYU, Dr. Coleman has made significant strides in fostering a culture of inclusion and innovation. Her contributions at Harvard University as the Chief Diversity Officer and Special Assistant to the President laid the foundation for transformative change within the institution. Her dedication to diversity and inclusion spans over two decades, with impactful roles at Tufts University and as an independent consultant to private clients.

Education:

• PhD, Social and Cultural Analysis - American Studies

  • New York University

• BA, Sociology (focus on computer science)

  • Denison University

• M.A. and M.A. and M.A., Gender, Sexuality Women's Studies; African/African American; & Communication Studies

  • The Ohio State University

Skills:

• Higher Education

  • Endorsed by colleagues at Harvard University

• Public Speaking

  • Endorsed by Payton Head and colleagues at Harvard University

• Research

  • Endorsed by Bob W. and colleagues at Harvard University

• Program Development

  • Endorsed for expertise

• Nonprofits

  • Endorsed for expertise

• Community Outreach

  • Highly endorsed for community engagement

• Fundraising

  • Recognized for fundraising capabilities

Dr. Lisa Coleman's unwavering commitment to innovation, diversity, and equity has earned her the respect and admiration of peers and colleagues alike. She continues to make a profound impact on higher education, corporate environments, and the wider community through her leadership, expertise, and dedication to fostering positive change.