Dr. Mary “MJ” McConner is a Certified Diversity Executive with over fifteen years of experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and international education. With a robust professional background that includes prior experience serving in C-Suite leadership roles, Dr. McConner now uses her expertise as a consultant, coach, and facilitator to support organizations across the nation.

She specializes in empowering leaders and teams to navigate complex organizational challenges. Her unique approach integrates comprehensive consulting and coaching methodologies to ensure leaders and teams are equipped to foster inclusive cultures and achieve sustainable success.

Dr. McConner’s thought leadership has been featured in U.S. News & World Report, AfroTech, FOX, Roland Martin Unfiltered, Medium, Living Corporate, and other prominent outlets. In 2023, she was honored as a Super Woman in Business by the Memphis Business Journal and recognized as an honoree for the inaugural Memphis Business Journal Expand: Diversity in Business Awards. Dr. MJ’s advocacy, research, and community engagement work have been instrumental in her commitment to promoting DEI locally, nationally, and internationally.

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EDUCATION

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Higher Education Administration, Auburn University, 2017

• Master of Arts (M.A.), Theology, University of Notre Dame, In Progress

• Master of Arts (M.A.), Educational Leadership, Central Michigan University, 2010

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Psychology, Grand Valley State University, 2008

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EXECUTIVE EDUCATION

• University of Oxford, Saïd Business School, Oxford Executive Leadership Programme, 2021

• Harvard University, Management Development Program, 2019​