Inclusive excellence is a framework designed to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion while driving organizational success by creating a positive environment for all stakeholders. This approach is not something leaders can achieve quickly; it is a purposeful, intentional, and ongoing journey to foster a culture of excellence. In this session, I will share my vision and leadership journey toward building an equitable ecosystem within my organization, where all staff feel empowered to bring their whole, authentic selves to work and experience a sense of belonging. In this environment, I envision that race or any other social identity will no longer determine access to merit or opportunities, allowing everyone to reach their full potential and truly thrive.
Dr. Shirley J. Everett, EdD, MBA, Senior Associate Vice Provost for Residential & Dining Enterprises, Stanford University
Dr. Shirley J. Everett is a visionary and transformational leader who leads a diverse and talented team of over 1,400 dedicated staff members in creating a culture of excellence. As the senior associate vice provost for residential and dining enterprises (R&DE), she is the steward of a $3B asset portfolio and is responsible for the overall leadership and administration of Stanford’s largest auxiliary.
She has transformed R&DE into an industry leader with a keen focus on the mantra of “students first.” R&DE houses 15,000 student residents and serves over 8M nutritious meals annually, while providing stewardship for one-third of Stanford’s physical plant.
Dr. Everett serves as senior advisor to the provost on equity and inclusion and inspires her leadership teams to create inclusive excellence. She also serves as a member of the president’s cabinet and as the chair of the board of directors of the Stanford Federal Credit Union.
She is a co-founder of the Menus of Change University Research Collaborative to develop groundbreaking strategies that motivate students and consumers toward plant-forward diets. In addition, Dr. Everett is the founder of the Stanford Food Institute which advances research and education to promote a holistic approach to food choices.
Dr. Everett has received numerous awards including the 2022 Kenneth Cuthbertson Award for Exceptional Contributions to the University and the 2022 President’s Award of Excellence through Diversity. She was recognized in the Stanford UHR Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access Honor Roll for 2023 and 2024.