Leader · Educator · Consultant
Dr. Cheryl Bailey Gittens is an accomplished higher education leader whose career centers on elevating people and institutions through equity-minded strategy, leadership development, and student success. As owner and principal consultant of B. Ellavated Coaching & Consulting, she partners with universities, community organizations, and foundations to align vision, culture, and outcomes—helping individuals and teams perform at their best.
With more than three decades in student and academic affairs, Dr. Gittens has led work across academic advising, student support services, diversity programs, faculty and staff development, student development, and workforce development. Her leadership emphasizes belonging and measurable impact—prioritizing student needs, growing inclusive environments, and improving enrollment, retention, and achievement.
Her previous roles span both higher education and philanthropy, including service as Senior Program Officer at the Clinton Foundation. In higher education, she held progressive leadership posts such as UW–Madison’s Chief Diversity Officer/Deputy Vice Chancellor for Diversity and Inclusion (Interim), Associate Vice Provost for Faculty and Staff Affairs, and Associate Vice Provost for Student Diversity Programs and Scholarships. She has also contributed to Boys & Girls Clubs and multiple colleges and universities, leading programs that strengthened access and outcomes.
A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Gittens holds an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from George Washington University, an M.S.W. in Administration, Policy, and Planning from Rutgers University, and a B.A. in Social Work from Rutgers University. Her trajectory reflects a consistent throughline: building structures of opportunity and cultures where students, staff, and faculty can thrive.
