Alvin B. Tillery, Jr., is the founding Director of the Center for the Study of Diversity and Democracy and Professor of political science at Northwestern University. He earned his Ph.D. from Harvard University in 2001. Tillery is also a summa cum laude graduate of Morehouse College. His research focuses on building leadership capacity and designing equity within organizations. Tillery is a frequent commentator in the national media on diversity, equity, and inclusion issues. He is also the CEO of the 2040 Strategy Group, which provides assessments, trainings, and strategic advice to corporations, governments, and non-profits.