CURRICULUM VITAE

SUMMARY

Strategic, collaborative, and entrepreneurial leader with 2 decades of professional experience in private, public, and higher education sectors. Strong record of success in building award-winning programs and departments from the ground up. Self-aware, approachable, and adaptable thought partner with superb project management, research, communication, presentation, and customer service skills. Passionately dedicated to developing people and organizations, cultivating high-touch trusting and effective relationships with stakeholders at all levels, and developing best-in-class standards and products that add considerable value to people and organizations. Published scholar, seasoned facilitator and content developer, and winner of multiple performance rewards.

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CORE COMPETENCIES & HIGHLIGHTED EXPERTISE

  • Academic Coaching & Editing
  • Assessment & Evaluation
  • Budgeting & Fundraising
  • Career & Leadership Development
  • Case & Project Management
  • CliftonStrengths Coaching and Workshops
  • Change Management
  • Coaching and Mentoring
  • Communications & Marketing
  • Counseling, Advising & Crisis Response
  • Curriculum and Program Development
  • Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
  • Event Planning & Conference Coordination
  • Hogan Assessment Coaching
  • LGBTQIA+ Topics & Services
  • Office Management
  • Policy Development & Enhancement
  • Project Management
  • Recruitment
  • Research
  • Strategic Planning
  • Supervision & Mentorship
  • Teaching & Training
  • Vision and Execution

DEGREES

  • Doctor of Education, New England College, 2019
  • Master of Science in Education, Baruch College, CUNY, 2009
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts, Marymount Manhattan College, 2002

CERTIFICATIONS

  • Everything DiSC, Wiley, September 2023
  • Certified CliftonStrengths Coach, Gallup, August 2022
  • Hogan Certified Coach, Hogan Assessment Systems, August 2020
  • Change Management Certification, Procsi, May 2019

EXPERIENCE

Included Health
Director of Talent Development in Talent Management, 2023 – Present

  • Design and lead enterprise-wide Talent Development strategy, including new hire orientation and onboarding programs, learning management system RFP process and implementation, manager training, leadership development (i.e., managers to C-Suite), compliance and required training, team development and coaching programs (e.g., DiSC, CliftonStrengths, and Hogan) and DEIB education (e.g., design and deliver inclusive leadership and allyship courses and materials, and collaborate on company resources).
  • Oversee diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts, including strategy, education, resources, and Employee Resource Groups
  • Worked closely with the executive team and appointed a steering committee to coordinate an inaugural, 2.5-day Leadership Summit in New Orleans in March 2024 that brought 200 managers together in person to enhance leadership competencies, provide opportunities for business alignment, and expand networking and cross functional collaboration. The event featured five keynotes from the executive team, 16 breakout sessions, and numerous events and networking opportunities, as well as the first annual Leadership Excellence Awards celebrating and recognizing exceptional leaders who embody our six leadership competencies. The program received very high favorability scores: meeting objectives (97%), keynotes and breakout sessions (99%), and overall event satisfaction (96%).
  • Worked closely with HR Business Partners, the Workday team, and Compensation to design a new, enterprise-wide performance management strategy that launched in FY 24 and collaborated with Go-To-Market on a pilot for assessing potential.
  • Design and deliver leadership development team workshops upon request for various areas of the business (e.g., senior leadership team, Go-to-Market, Clinical Health Organization, Talent Acquisition, Human Resources, Care Team).

MGM Resorts International
Director of Organization Effectiveness for Career and Leadership Development (Executive Director), 2022 – 2023

  • Designed and led the global career and leadership development strategy for a leading hospitality and entertainment company with 62K employees in 27 properties and 13 locations and $12.9 billion in revenue
  • Enhanced organization effectiveness by overseeing leadership development programs, training, and resources for all talent levels, including international and domestic college programs, post-college programs, frontline programs, supervisor and manager + training, director development, high-potential programs, and executive development
  • Oversaw vendor relationships, contracts, and platforms (e.g., LinkedIn Learning, Josh Bersin Academy, SHRM)
  • Led the enterprise-wide Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) education strategy to build cross-cultural intelligence and operationalize DEI principles in relation to internal and external guests and provide tools to equip employees in disrupting bias to create a more inclusive culture; serve on a committee to enhance core values and culture
  • Led a team of certified coaches, oversaw all psychometric assessments, reports, and portals, and conducted individual and group coaching sessions and off-sites for senior leaders (e.g., Hogan assessment and CliftonStrengths)
  • Aligned talent development programs and initiatives to performance reviews, talent reviews, enterprise-wide surveys and action planning, functional training, and succession planning, specifically to increase the diverse talent pipeline
  • Partnered with external organizations to offer meaningful development (e.g., 2-day event for 100 women managers)
  • Managed $2 million budget (exclusive of salaries), four senior managers, and a learning partner

Director of Career and Leadership Development, 2021 – 2022

  • Partnered with Executive Director and Center of Excellence leaders to define and lead the strategic vision for learning that prioritized and addressed global needs using business analytics that informed long-term talent strategies
  • Oversaw the high-potential leadership development program for executive directors and vice presidents (76% of the inaugural cohort has been promoted or advanced in role since the launch in September 2020)
  • Led DEI education strategy that produced five eLearning courses on Unconscious Bias, Transgender Inclusion, 6 Traits of Inclusive Leadership, Social Impact and Sustainability Policies and Goals, LGB Inclusion, and Anti-Human Trafficking, and developed self-paced learning paths using LinkedIn Learning for employment resource group officers
  • Oversaw new hire orientation for all Las Vegas properties and led a team of learning partners and senior managers
  • Partnered with executives to identify meaningful individual development plan actions

Senior Executive Development Partner, Talent Development and Management, 2019 – 2021

  • Proposed, designed, implemented, executed, and assessed leadership development programs for executives, mid-level managers, new supervisors and managers and college populations.
  • Collaborated with 180 subject matter experts and designed and led a 2–week immersive international integrated resorts education program for 20 students from Kansai Gaidai University (KGU) in Osaka, Japan in February 2020; expanded the program to be offered virtually to almost 50 students from KGU and Kyoto University in 2021, resulting in more positive feedback and saving more than $550,000 in external spend; expanded to seven universities in 2022
  • Designed the CEO-sponsored Accelerated Leadership Program that identified high-potential executive directors and vice presidents and provided them with development actions for future cross-functional senior leadership roles
  • Designed a women’s executive mentorship program aimed at supporting and developing high-performing, high-potential women directors to become the next generation of senior leaders in the Company

Senior Business Consultant for Diversity & Inclusion Strategy, 2019 

  • Enterprise-wide subject matter expert providing research, analysis, policies, and inclusive best practices
  • Provided leadership, vision, and direction for 23 employee network groups, including oversight of strategic planning, financial and resource management, governance, and public relations
  • Developed and facilitated diversity and inclusion curricula, training, focus groups, inclusion circles, and programs to identify and fill gaps, increase cultural intelligence, and enhance workplace culture
  • Co-led the research and submission of all 2019 national assessments and surveys (e.g., DiversityInc, Disability:In, HRC Corporate Equality Index, Best for Vets) resulting in top US rankings
  • Coordinated enterprise-wide diversity resources and programs for annual holidays and observances (e.g., Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, Women’s History Month, Asian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month, LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, etc.)
  • Led, encouraged, and worked cooperatively with departments, leaders, and employees across the enterprise to improve the recruitment and retention of diverse talent, create and retain a diverse workforce, and enhance inclusive workplace cultures
  • Established an awards program celebrating the achievement of ENGs across the enterprise
  • Collaborated with Communications to honor and celebrate Transgender Day of Visibility for the first time, partnered with Employee Relations/Labor Relations on gender-inclusive verbiage for policy changes, and consulted various departments on their LGBTQIA+ education and training efforts

Heartful Editor
Academic Coach and Editor, 2020 – 2021

  • Provide coaching and editing support to students, faculty, and academic and career professionals on academic writing and the mechanics of style
    • Academic project examples include course papers, journal articles, dissertations and theses, manuscripts, and books/book chapters
    • Professional project examples include personal statements, resumes, CVs, cover letters, slide decks, conference presentations, and manuals

Brian James Edwards Consulting 
Principal Trainer/Consultant, 2012 – Present

  • Provide consultation services such as professional development, strategic planning assistance, external department reviews and assessments, and policy and manuscript evaluation/development/enhancement to corporations and businesses; colleges and universities; service organizations and providers; educators, administrators and support professionals; non-profit leaders; public health organizations; LGBTQIA+ organizations; sexual assault and interpersonal violence programs; and therapists, counselors, social workers, and other mental health professionals.

University of Connecticut
Director, 2017 – 2018

  • Executive-level strategist responsible for guiding policy efforts and creating substantive programs that defined, assessed, and promoted LGBTQ educational issues, employment opportunities, and cultural proficiency
  • Led, encouraged, and worked cooperatively with University departments, faculty, staff, and students (i.e., undergraduate and graduate) to improve recruitment and retention, and in creating and retaining a diverse workforce
  • Provided leadership, vision, and direction for the department including oversight of strategic planning, financial and resource management, hiring and supervising staff, and strengthening community and public relations
  • Managed various University-wide projects, initiatives, committees, and events
  • Provided support services through personal counseling, advising, and facilitation of support groups
  • Developed institution-wide training and educational resources and for individual academic departments, undergraduate and graduate student organizations, campus partners, and other community groups
  • Developed curricula for college-level courses, lectures, and training
  • Worked with various campus partners to host a daylong, institution-wide metanoia for dialogues on race
  • Oversaw $315,000 in budgets and scholarships
  • Supervised professional, para-professional, and student staff

Educators Training Institute
Lead Facilitator/Trainer,  2015 – 2017

  • Designed curricula and provided innovative professional development opportunities to middle and high school teachers, principals, and counselors in the Northern New Jersey region
  • Workshops provided education on topics including but not limited to state and federal discrimination laws/policies, how to best organize and support student organizations, understanding issues of power and privilege, language, allyship, best practices for teaching, programming, developing policies, responding to crises, and creating inclusive spaces for students, teachers, staff, parents, and other community members

Montclair State University
Assistant Director of Equity and Diversity,  2015 – 2017

  • Co-led division-wide oversight of strategic planning, resource management, hiring and supervising staff, and strengthening community and public relations for the Office of Equity and Diversity, the Women’s Center, the Center for Faith and Spirituality, and the LGBTQ Center
  • Created, planned, and managed divisional projects, training, and conferences
  • Provided support services through personal counseling, consulting, and advising
  • Developed institution-wide training and educational resources and for internal and external stakeholders
  • Co-developed a multicultural student council and a mentorship program designed to increase the engagement, success, retention, and persistence of students of color
  • Coordinated extensive University-wide diversity programming (e.g., Diversity/Social Justice Week, Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, Women’s History Month, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Asian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month, etc.) and assisted in institutional initiatives (e.g., new student orientation, homecoming, accepted student days, commencement, convocations, etc.)

LGBTQ Center Coordinator (Director),  2012 – 2017

  • Successfully positioned the institution as a national leader in LGBTQ student services within the first 3 years of employment through meeting and exceeding national benchmarking standards
  • Successfully removed trans exclusions from the student health insurance plans at Montclair State University, Kean University, The College of New Jersey, and Rowan University
  • Served as the University LGBTQ specialist consulting all areas of the campus community on policy development, programming, staff training, and other endeavors that enhanced campus climate and inclusion
  • Provided executive leadership, vision, and direction for the center including full oversight of strategic planning, financial and resource management, hiring and supervising staff, and strengthening community and public relations
  • Provided support services to undergraduate and graduate student populations through personal counseling, advising, and facilitation of support groups
  • Developed training and educational resources for departments, student organizations, and community groups
  • Developed a peer education program providing undergraduate and graduate students leadership and professional development opportunities in areas of peer support, mentorship, event coordination, curriculum design, teaching, and facilitation
  • Oversaw and expanded LGBTQ housing (i.e., managed applications, maintained waitlists, oversaw placements, retreats, meditations, and assessments, and assisted with resident assistant interviews/appointments)
  • Established the first gender-inclusive, LGBTQ+ focused, multicultural fraternal organization on campus in collaboration with students and the Office of Greek Life
  • Developed an LGBTQ and allied alumni affinity group, faculty/staff organization, and advisory council
  • Established Lavender Graduation and grew the campus-wide awards program
  • Oversaw a $43,000 budget and engaged in fundraising efforts to provide supplemental funding sources
  • Supervised professional, para-professional, and student staff, as well as dozens of volunteers, interns, and graduate-level practicum students

Fashion Institute of Technology
Counselor for Evening/Weekend Degrees & Precollege Programs, 2008 – 2012

  • Managed the Center for Evening/Weekend (E/W) and Precollege Programs including hiring, training, and supervising staff, managing resources and data, and supporting students, faculty, and staff
  • Managed applications, enrollment, and other tracking data for 11 degree programs, and acted as a ‘1-stop-shop’ liaison providing support/services to all potential and matriculated E/W degree students on behalf of the college
  • Assisted students in removing obstacles and issues (e.g. holds, waivers, course overrides, obtaining lockers, etc.) and counseled precollege and adult students on noncredit, credit, and degree course selection, and career exploration
  • Collaborated with department chairs and faculty to schedule credit and non-credit course offerings each term
  • Designed department- and division-wide marketing materials, and oversaw all websites and social media
  • Coordinated and hosted annual events (e.g. open houses, new student orientations, advising nights, etc.) for degree students, non-degree students, and those in noncredit programs (i.e., precollege and adult)
  • Supervised  student staff and interns

Institute of Audio Research
Assistant Director of Career Services, 2004 – 2008

  • Managed the office and provided support to campus and community constituents
  • Oversaw career and internship placements for more than 1500 students, provided counseling on resumes, career goals, and interviewing techniques, conducted employers visits, and spearheaded programming, advising, and career exploration events
  • Met overall department placement and average salary targets on an annual basis and submitted reports on behalf of the institution annually to the Accreditation Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology
  • Assisted with revision and curriculum development of the Industry Practicum course

TEACHING & RESEARCH INTERESTS

  • Higher Education Administration/Student Affairs
  • LGBTQIA Studies & Research
  • Social Justice Education & Activism
  • Identity and Student Development Theory
  • Campus/Workplace Climate
  • Qualitative Research Methods

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

University of Connecticut
Lecturer/Instructor of Record, University Interdisciplinary Courses, 2017

  • UNV 1820: LGBTQIA+ Identity, Representation, and Visibility
    A seminar introducing students to gender and sexuality spectra through facilitated discussions, interactive activities, reading, and media. Students become familiar with strategies in creative research and idea development, specifically in cultural and political contexts.
  • UNV 2500: Gender, Sexuality & Community
    A lecture and discussion series with scholars, community activists, and educators from assorted disciplines examining diverse topics, existing research, current activism, and best practices; focused on critical investigation and exploration of the interrelationships of gender, sexuality, and community.

Montclair State University
Adjunct Faculty, Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies, 2013 – 2017

  • GLQS 100: Introduction to LGBTQ Studies
    A seminar introducing students to LGBTQ history, LGBTQ research, and the social construction frameworks for analyzing contemporary gendered identities and sexualities.

Instructor, General Education, 2013 – 2015

  • GNED 199: New Student Seminar
    A seminar designed to ensure the academic success of first-year students by providing them with the tools they need to make informed decisions regarding their academic, personal, ethical, and career choices.

Lecturer/Collaborator, Various Academic Affairs Units, 2012 – 2017
Graduate courses:

  • COUN 589: Student Services in Higher Education
  • COUN 595: Multicultural Counseling and Development
  • COUN 653: Selected Topics in Counseling (Diversity Issues in Higher Education)
  • COUN 653: Selected Topics in Counseling (LGBT Issues in Counseling)
  • COUN 654: Internship in Counseling I
  • COUN 674: Internship in Counseling II
  • ELAD 628: Educational Leadership Capstone

Undergraduate courses:

  • CHAD 470: Senior Seminar
  • GLQS 301: Queer Theory
  • GLQS 302: Selected Topics in LGBTQ Studies
  • GSWS 102: Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies
  • HLTH 290: Human Sexuality
  • CMDA 320: Persuasion & Transmedia Projects
  • PSYC 120: Psychology of Leadership for Emerging Leaders: Theory & Application

Baruch College, CUNY
Instructor, Coordinated Undergraduate Education, 2008 – 2010

  • FRO 1000: Freshman Seminar
    A seminar providing students with the necessary tools to become self-directed learners by exposing them to on-campus resources, academic success strategies, and an opportunity to explore preliminary career plans.

PUBLICATIONS

Published and In-Progress

Bazarsky, D., Edwards, B. J., Jensen, L., Subbaraman, S., Sugiyama, B., & Travers, S. (2022). Standards of practice: Core competencies for LGBTQIA+ directors and professionals in higher education. Journal of Diversity in Higher Education 15(2), 141–152. Advanced online publication (2020: https://doi.org/10.1037/dhe0000282)

Edwards, B. J. (2019). Unheard voices: A phenomenological exploration of the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ center practitioners in U.S. higher education (Publication No. 27957242) [Doctoral dissertation, New England College]. ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global.

Bazarsky, D., Edwards, B. J., Jensen, L. S., Subbaraman, S., Sugiyama, B., Travers, S. (2019). Standards of practice: Core competencies for LGBTQIA+ directors and professionals in higher education (Concise version) [Manuscript in progress].

Education Materials and Reports

Included Health. (2023). Leader playbook. San Francisco, CA: Author.

Included Health. (2023). Individual development plan guide [Manual]. San Francisco, CA: Author.

MGM Resorts International. (2020; 2022). Accelerated leadership program handbook [Manual]. Las Vegas, NV: Author.

MGM Resorts International. (2020; 2022). Sponsorship handbook [Manual]. Las Vegas, NV: Author.

MGM Resorts International. (2020; 2021; 2022). International integrated resorts education program [Manual]. Las Vegas, NV: Author.

MGM Resorts International. (2020; 2022). Individual development plan guide [Manual]. Las Vegas, NV: Author.

MGM Resorts International. (2019). Process and application for forming a new employee network group [Manual]. Las Vegas, NV: Author.

MGM Resorts International. (2019). 2020 employee network groups officer handbook [Manual]. Las Vegas, NV: Author.

Edwards, B. J. (2019). Employee network groups strategic plan 2020–2022 [Report]. MGM Resorts International.

MGM Resorts International. (2019). LGBTQIA+ etiquette. [Training Video]. Las Vegas, NV: Author.

University of Connecticut. (2017). Creating an inclusive and affirming workplace for transgender employees: A guide for managers, supervisors, and colleagues [Guide]. Storrs, CT: Author.

Edwards, B. J. (2015). Creating an inclusive and affirming classroom for transgender students: A guide for faculty [Guide]. Montclair State University.

Edwards, B. J. (2014). LGBTQ center peer education program [Manual]. Montclair State University.

Edwards, B. J. (2014). Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer center [Brochure]. Montclair State University.

Edwards, B. J. (2014). Trans at Montclair [Brochure]. Montclair State University.

Edwards, B. J. (2013). Safe space participant toolkit [Guide]. Montclair State University.

Edwards, B. J. (2013). Safe space program [Brochure]. Montclair State University.

Edwards, B. J. (2012). Precollege programs–experiencing dreams before college [Blog]. Fashion Institute of Technology.

Edwards, B. J. (2012). Precollege programs–blog. [Manual]. Fashion Institute of Technology.

Edwards, B. J. (2010). The history of evening/weekend degree programs [Report]. Fashion Institute of Technology, School of Continuing and Professional Studies.

News Articles/Blogs

Edwards, B. (2012, August 6). An average couple. GLAAD–Blog. https://www.glaad.org/blog/guest-post-average-couple-brian-edwards

Edwards, B. (2012, July 21). It gets better–but better is no longer good enough. The Huffington Post–The Blog. https://www.huffingtonpost.com/brian-edwards/brian-edwards-photo-stolen_b_1689490.html

PROFESSIONAL PRESENTATIONS

National and Regional Conferences

Bazarsky, D., Edwards, B. J., Jensen, L., Subbaraman, S., Sugiyama, B., & Travers, S. (2020, March 11–14). Core competencies for LGBTQIA+ directors in higher education [Conference session, canceled due to COVID-19]. National Association for Diversity Officers in Higher Education 14th Annual National Conference, San Diego, CA, United States.

Bazarsky, D., Edwards, B. J., Jensen, L., Subbaraman, S., Sugiyama, B., & Travers, S. (2019, March 9–13). LGBTQ core competencies in a world of diversity and inclusion: An exploration [Conference session]. National Association of Student Personnel Administrators National Conference, Los Angeles, CA, United States.

Edwards, B. J. (2018, July 30–August 3). LGBTQIA+ allyship daylong institute [Session canceled]. New England College Summer Institute, Henniker, NH, United States.

Edwards, B. J. (2015, November 6). The future of our movement: Beyond marriage equality [Plenary session]. 13th Annual NJ LGBTQA College Leadership Conference, Montclair, NJ, United States.

Edwards, B. J. (2015, October 23). They’re here, they’re queer, they’re first-year college students [Conference session]. New Jersey Association of New Student Advocates 5th Biennial State Conference on Campus-Wide Initiatives for First-Year Success & College Completion, Atlantic City, NJ, United States.

Edwards, B. J., & Pinto, S. (2014, September 19–21). The ‘a’ word: Asexuality and the romantic spectrum [Poster presentation]. Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Issues in Counseling Inaugural National Conference, New Orleans, LA, United States.

Edwards, B. J., & Montenegro, A. (2014, June 4–8). Lavender leaders: A pilot program in peer-to-peer LGBTQ education [Poster presentation].  American Association of Sexuality Educators Counselors and Therapists 46th Annual National Conference, Monterey, CA, United States.

Gary, S., & Edwards, B. J. (2014, March 15–19). I am a male survivor of intimate partner violence…please help me! [Conference session]. National Association of Student Personnel Administrators National Conference, Orlando, FL, United States.

Edwards, B. J., & Coleman, C. (2014, March 10). QUEERing your competency: Combating homophobia & heterosexism through student programming [Conference session]. Long Island GLBT Services Network’s 19th Annual Long Island GLBT Conference, Long Island, NY, United States.

Edwards, B. J., & Coleman, C. (2013, November). QUEERing your competency: Combating homophobia & heterosexism through programming [Conference session]. Association of College Unions International Regional Conference, Montclair, NJ, Unites States.

Community and University Training, Workshops, & Keynote Sessions

  • The state and school of work for LGBTQ+ people and what we can do about it. New Jersey Industry Liaison Group, Virtual, March, 2023.
  • Doctoral journey panel discussion (Virtual panel). HSED 832 Course, Human Sexuality Studies, Widener University, Chester, PA, April 2020
  • Understanding power and privilege. University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, May 2018
  • Power and privilege. Drew University, Madison, NJ, April 2018
  • Allyship training. YMCA of Summit, NJ, March 2017
  • Standing up for our kids. North Jersey Pride, Glen Ridge, NJ, June 2016
  • LGBTQ+ terminology basics. Kearny School District through a partnership with the Montclair State University Network for Educational Renewal, December 2015
  • Creating safe[r] spaces for LGBTQ students: An introspective workshop for counselors and educators. Presented to K–12 teachers, principals, & counselors in Northern NJ. Educators Training Institute, Lodi, NJ, December 2015
  • Navigating the college selection process for LGBTQ students. Lodi High School GSA, October 2015
  • Sexuality spectra and gender galaxies. Lodi High School GSA, October 2015
  • Safe space training. New Student Orientation Peer Leaders, New Jersey Institute of Technology, August 2015
  • Trans youth. Circle of Care for Families and Children of Passaic County, Inc., Woodland Park, NJ, March 2015
  • Safe space training. Office of Leadership and Diversity, New Jersey Institute of Technology. January 2015
  • Best practices for supporting LGBTQ students. Division of Academic Support and Student Affairs, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, November 2014
  • LGBTQ 101: An interactive workshop for student leaders. Division of Academic Support and Student Affairs student staff, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, November 2014
  • Safe space training for faculty and staff. Ocean County Community College. November 2014
  • Creating safe[r] spaces for LGBTQ students: An introspective workshop for counselors and educators. Presented to K–12 teachers, principals, and counselors in Northern NJ. Educators Training Institute, Lodi, NJ, October 2014
  • Representation matters: Considerations for writing LGBTQ characters for film and television. Speaking Through Silence Student Writer’s Conference, Montclair, NJ, April 2014
  • Working with LGBTQ survivors of sexual violence. SAVE of Essex County/Family Justice League, Montclair, NJ, March 2014
  • Understanding and working with LGBTQ youth & families. Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children of Passaic County, Wayne, NJ, October 2013
  • Understanding and supporting LGBTQ youth & families. Silk City Based Youth Services. October 2013
  • How to choose an LGBT-friendly college. GLBT of Hunterdon County. Clinton, NJ, December 2012
  • After I do. Keynote for LGBT Marriage Forum. The LGBT Community Center, New York, NY, September 2012

Additional Professional Presentations

Included Health

  • Unleash your talent (CliftonStrengths workshop), Talent Management Virtual Session, Spring 2024
  • The best of us (CliftonStrengths workshop), Talent Management On-Site, Spring 2024
  • DiSC team workshop, Multiple Teams (e.g., Chief Health Officer Leadership Team On-Site, Marketing Team Off-Site, Talent Acquisition Team Off-Site, Chief Information Officer Leadership Team On-Site), 2023-2024
  • Care leadership panel (moderator), Talent and Organization On-Site, May 2023
  • Career development workshop, Talent and Organization On-Site, May 2023

MGM Resorts International

  • Unleash your talent (CliftonStrengths workshops), Bellagio and Park MGM Directors Retreat, Sports and Sponsorship Retreat, Brand Marketing Retreat, Bellagio and Park MGM Sales Team Retreat, Talent Development, Management and Culinary Associate Program Career Development Series, MGM Resorts International, Fall 2022
  • The best of us (CliftonStrengths workshop), Bellagio and Park MGM Directors Retreat, Sports and Sponsorship Retreat, Brand Marketing Retreat, Talent Development, Management and Culinary Associate Program Career Development Series, MGM Resorts International, Fall 2022
  • Building an online brand, Japan Externship Program, February 2020
  • Resume workshop, Japan Externship Program, February 2020
  • Inclusion continuum, Hispanic and Latino Network Group, Employee Network Group, September 2019
  • Identity signs, Interfaith Employee Network Group, MGM Resorts International, September 2019
  • Diversity of thought innovation process, Management Associate Program, July 2019

University of Connecticut

  • Language that pay$. UConn Foundation’s Daylong Summit, October 2017
  • Supporting LGBTQ students. Counseling and Mental Health Services, October 2017
  • They’re here, they’re queer, they’re living in housing. Residence Life, September 2017
  • History of LGBTQ centers at colleges and universities in the U.S., September 2017
  • 5-year forecast: Potential challenges facing LGBTQ students in 2022. April 2017

Montclair State University

  • Combating stereotypes and dismantling oppression. Greek Life, September 2017
  • From the great butter rebellion to #BlackLivesMatter: College activism & student affairs. Office of Equity and Diversity (OED) Divisional Staff Training, August 2017
  • Student leader to student affairs professional. OED Graduate Assistant Training. August 2017
  • From theory to assessment: Using Edwards’ aspiring social justice ally identity development model to inform and transform social justice pedagogy. April 2017
  • Creating inclusive classroom spaces. Creative Writing Department. September 2016
  • Staying sane in social justice work. August 2016
  • Creating a trans-friendly classroom, August 2016
  • Stepping up to stop sexual assault. April 2016
  • Queering orientation. Peer Advisors of CAST, April 2016
  • They’re here, they’re queer, they’re going through conduct. Dean of Students Office, April 2016
  • All about da bears–A workshop on bear culture. February 2016
  • Trans today: Best practices for student affairs professionals. Student Development & Campus Life. October 2015
  • Targets of oppression. Theta Delta Sigma, Society Inc., October 2015
  • Language matters: Identifying & confronting microaggressions. Student Government Retreat. October 2015
  • Microaggressions; A public health concern. Health Promotion, September 2015
  • Teaching diversity in new student seminar. CAST, August 2015
  • Supporting LGBTQ athletes. Intramural and Club Sports Training, Campus Recreation. August 2015
  • Approaching our work through intersectionality. Center for Student Involvement. December 2014
  • Serving the needs of LGBTQ students. University Health Center. October 2014
  • Supporting questioning students. Counseling and Psychological Services, October 2014
  • Got privilege? Student Government Association, Inc. Retreat. October 2014
  • Gender and sexuality identity development. Psychological Aspects of Human Sexuality. October 2014
  • Practicing gender pronouns: A workshop for faculty. September 2014
  • Reflections of power and privilege. Health Promotion. April 2014
  • Sexual, hate, and intimate partner violence and the LGBTQ community. April 2014
  • Male survivors of sexual assault. February 2014
  • Multiple identities at werk: Embracing intersectionality in the LGBTQ community. January 2014
  • The hate effect and bystander intervention. Lambda Sigma Upsilon Latino Fraternity, Inc. November 2013
  • Let’s talk about intersex. October 2013
  • Power and privilege. Student Government Retreat. October 2013
  • Developing a multicultural mindset. Residence Life Training, August 2013
  • Queering your character: A workshop for theatre actors. Players conference. May 2013
  • LGBTQ issues in education. Secondary and Special Education. April 2013
  • Counseling LGBT youth. Counseling Department. February 2013
  • It gets better but better is no longer good enough. Diversity Day Keynote, August 2012
  • Safe space: Train the trainer, 2012–2017
  • Safe space training. Campus-wide and specific departments (e.g. Admissions, Health Center, the Center for Student Involvement, Greek Life, Facilities, Mail Center, Residency Life, Family and Child Studies, Athletics, Campus Recreation, Financial Aid, Counseling and Psychological Services, Health Promotion, Center for Advising and Student Transitions, Teacher Education Program, Emergency Medical Services, University Police, Student Life at Montclair, Student Government Association Inc., Residential Living Communities, Bonner Leaders Program, Greek organizations, etc. 2012-2017

ACADEMIC COACHING & EDITING

  • McAdara, J. (2020). The InfiniSphere: Expanding existing electroacoustical sound principles by means of an original design application specifically for trombone (Doctoral dissertation). University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL.
  • Shuaibe-Peters, H. M. (2020). Black women leaders in early childhood education: Understanding our ethic of care (Doctoral dissertation). San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA.
  • Yourous, K. E. (2020). Examining the role of on-campus experiences: A phenomenological study of persistence for limited-residency doctoral graduates (Doctoral dissertation). Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA.
  • Wasilewski, S. M. (2020). Global engagement: Educators’ perceptions of global citizenship education in practice [Manuscript submitted for publication). Foxborough, MA.
  • White, B. (2020). Perceptions of aspiring school leaders: Scenario-based simulations and their impact on school principal efficacy (Doctoral dissertation). New England College, Henniker, NH.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE (Selected)

National

  • Theta Delta Sigma Society, Inc.: National Director Communications, 2018
  • Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals: Core Competencies of the Profession Work Group, 2018–2020; Standards of Practice Work Group, 2016–2018; Mid-Atlantic Region Representative, 2014–2015
  • National Association of Student Personnel Administrators: National Conference Proposal Reviewer, 2014

Local/Regional

  • LGBTQ Center of Southern Nevada, Associate Board Member, 2020-2021
  • Hyacinth AIDS Foundation: Advisory Board for Project Living Out Loud, 2015–2016
  • 14th Annual NJ LGBTQA College Leadership Conference, Steering Committee/Registration Chair, 2015–2016
  • SAVE of Essex County/Family Service League, Prevention Coalition Board Member, 2014–2015
  • 13th Annual NJ LGBTQA College Leadership Conference, Conference Chair, 2014–2015
  • 12th Annual NJ LGBTQA College Leadership Conference, Steering Committee/Marketing Chair, 2012–2013

MGM Resorts International

  • Culture Committee, 2021 – 2023

University of Connecticut

  • Community Resource Team, 2017–2018
  • Metanoia: Together: Confronting Racism Steering Committee, 2017
  • Committee on Charleston Candlelight Vigil, 2017

Montclair State University

  • Social Justice Conference (chair), 2016–2017
  • Bias Response Taskforce, 2015–2017
  • Civility Taskforce, 2015–2016
  • LGBTQ Center Advisory Board (founder), 2014–2017
  • Crisis, Assessment, Response, and Education Team, 2014–2017
  • Middle States Standard II: Ethics and Integrity, 2014–2015
  • Middle States Standard IV: Working Group: Support of the Student Experience, 2014–2017
  • Alpha Iota Chi (advisor), 2014–2017
  • Project C.O.P.E. New Media Grant Steering Committee, 2014–2016
  • Selection Committee for 5 Community Directors, 2014–2015
  • Giving Goes Glam (advisor), 2014–2015
  • Nurse Practitioner Selection Committee, 2014
  • Players (advisor) 2013–2017
  • SPECTRUMS (advisor) 2013–2017
  • Advisory Council on Alcohol and Drugs, 2013–2017
  • President’s Commission on Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity, and Diversity, 2013–2017
  • Safe[r] Space Conference (chair), 2013–2016
  • Student Development & Campus Life Cross-Training Committee, 2013–2015
  • Student Assessment Team, 2013–2014
  • Unity Committee (chair), 2013–2014
  • LGBTQ Studies Academic Committee, 2012–2017

Fashion Institute of Technology

  • Orientation Committee, 2010–2012
  • New Student Success Series Committee, 2010–2012
  • School of Continuing and Professional Studies Call Center Committee (chair), 2010–2011
  • School of Continuing and Professional Studies Web & Social Media Marketing Committee (chair), 2010–2011
  • Campus Climate Study Steering Committee, 2009–2012
  • Diversity Strategic Planning Committee, 2008–2012
  • President’s Diversity Council, 2008–2012
  • Diversity Grants Committee, 2008–2012

Institute of Audio Research

  • Industry Practicum Curriculum Committee, 2006–2008
  • ACCSCT Accreditation Committee, 2004–2008
  • Annual Placement, Retention, and Completion Work Group (chair), 2004–2008

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

  • Association for Talent Development, 2023 – Present
  • National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, 2018 – 2020
  • American College Personnel Administration, College Student Educators International, 2018 – 2019
  • Theta Delta Sigma Society, Inc., 2015 – Present
  • National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, 2012 – 2019
  • Association of College Unions International, 2012 – 2017
  • Continuing Education Association of New York, 2010 – 2013
  • Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals, 2009 – Present

SOFTWARE & OTHER SKILLS

Articulate, Vyond, Google Suite, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, Prezi, Skype, Zoom, Asana, DeDoose, OrgSync, WordPress, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, Banner, Angel, Blackboard, Canvas, Cornerstone, LearnUpon, Hyperion, Diamond D, RedDot, Terminal 4, PeopleSoft, Workday, Workday Learning, 25Live, Digital Photography, and Social Media (e.g., Facebook, Workplace, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, SnapChat, YouTube, HootSuite)

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

  • Innovation Trailblazer Award, Talent and Organization, Included Health, 2024
  • CEO Equity Basket, MGM Resorts International, 2021
  • Semifinalist, The Point Foundation, Spring 2017 & 2018
  • OUTstanding Advocate of the Year, Montclair State University, 2017
  • Outstanding Greek Advisor of the Year, Montclair State University,  2016
  • Best of the Best Top 25/30 List of LGBTQ-friendly Colleges & Universities (Montclair State University), Campus Pride, 2015, 2016, & 2017
  • Best Colleges for LGBTQ Students, (Montclair State University), Best Colleges (#18), 2015 & 2016
  • Best LGBT Friendly Colleges and Universities, (Montclair State University), College Choice (# 26), 2015 & 2016
  • Vice President’s Red Ribbon Fellowship Award, Montclair State University, 2015
  • Stephen J. Jerome Fellow, Baruch College, 2008 & 2009

PARTNERSHIPS (Selected)

Collaborations

  • Ali Forney Center
  • Broadway Cares Equity Fights AIDS
  • Campus Pride
  • CenterLink
  • Empire State Pride Agenda
  • Farleigh Dickinson University
  • Garden State Equality
  • GLAAD
  • Hetrick-Martin Institute
  • Hudson Pride
  • La Casa De Don Pedro
  • LAMBDA Legal
  • Marriage Equality USA
  • National Center for Transgender Equality
  • New Jersey City University
  • North Jersey Pride
  • North Jersey PFLAG
  • NYC Anti-Violence Project
  • NYC Heritage of Pride
  • OUT Professionals
  • Princeton University
  • Project Living Out Loud
  • Ramapo University
  • Rowan University
  • Rutgers University – Newark
  • Rutgers University – New Brunswick
  • SAVE of Essex County, Family Service League
  • Southern Poverty Law Center
  • The Hyacinth Foundation
  • The Names Project
  • The NJ LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce
  • The Pride Center of New Jersey
  • William Paterson University

Consulting

  • Connecticut State Colleges & Universities system
  • Court Appointed Special Advocates of Passaic County
  • Farleigh Dickinson University
  • Fashion Institute of Technology
  • Kearny High School
  • Lodi High School
  • Montclair High School
  • New Jersey Institute of Technology
  • North Jersey PFLAG
  • North Jersey Pride
  • Ocean County Community College
  • Salisbury University
  • Silk City Based Youth Services
  • Stockton University
  • The College of New Jersey
  • The Family Services League/SAVE of Essex County
  • The School of Visual Arts
  • United Universalist Fellowship of Wayne
  • YMCA of Milburn

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

  • SHRM21 Annual Conference and Expo, Las Vegas, NV, 2021
  • Elevate Summit, San Diego, CA, 2019
  • Talent Management Alliance, Inclusion Summit, Atlanta, GA, 2019
  • Out & Equal Executive Forum, San Francisco, CA, 2019
  • Diversity Best Practices, Beyond Recruitment: Advancing Underrepresented Talent, San Jose, CA, 2019
  • National LGBTQ Task Force, Creating Change Conference, 2013 – 2017
  • Trans Health Conference, Philadelphia, PA, 2013 – 2017
  • National Conference on Race and Ethnicity, 2015 & 2016
  • National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, National Conference, 2014 & 2015
  • Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Issues in Counseling, Inaugural National Conference, 2014
  • American Association of Sexuality Educators Counselors and Therapists, 46th Annual National Conference, 2014
  • Long Island GLBT Services Network, 19th Annual Long Island GLBT Conference, 2014
  • New Jersey Association of New Student Advocates, 5th Biennial State Conference on Campus-Wide Initiatives for First-Year Success & College Completion, Atlantic City, NJ, 2014
  • Association of College Unions International, Regional Conference, Montclair, NJ, 2013