Tolonda M. Tolbert

Tolonda M. Tolbert, PhD, is a strategy expert who partners with companies to develop customized solutions to advance inclusion and meet their organizational goals. She specializes in training and professional development, cultural competency, sponsorship, ERGs, visible minorities, and LGBTQ issues. Tolonda also serves internally as a learning and development specialist for Catalyst’s Inclusive Leadership Initiative.
Previously, Tolonda worked as an independent D&I consultant for education and nonprofit institutions, as the founder of Diversity Speaks NYC. As a national trainer for the Anti-Defamation League’s A World of Difference Institute and GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network), she gained 12 years of anti-bias education experience developing curriculum, delivering, and coordinating programming. Tolonda was an adjunct professor at NYU’s Silver School of Social Work, and currently teaches professional development classes for faculty on Facilitating Challenging Discussions on Race and Racism. She also maintains an active role on the Anti-Defamation League’s Education Board. Tolonda received her PhD at Rutgers University, where she also received her Master’s with distinction in Comparative Literature and Women’s Studies. Tolonda is a published writer and independent scholar on social justice issues.