Bio
Kevin E. Hooks is a dynamic and visionary leader who specializes in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). As the Founder and Chief Inclusionist at CEOLIFE Unplugged, Kevin has become a pivotal figure in crafting and implementing innovative DEIB strategies that foster inclusive workplaces and societal equity.
Kevin embarked on his professional journey after obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communications from Missouri Southern State University. His academic prowess led him to graduate from the prestigious Presidential Leadership Scholars program, an initiative backed by four U.S. Presidents, and he was honored with the 2016 Outstanding Alumni Award from his alma mater.
In his transformative role as CEO of the Las Vegas Urban League, Kevin dramatically increased the reach and financial health of the organization, enhancing its services to support over 300,000 individuals and growing its revenue to $42M within five years. His tenure at the California Department of Justice as the first-ever Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer saw him spearheading strategic, organization-wide DEIB audits and updates.
At CEOLIFE Unplugged, Kevin's innovative leadership has led to the creation of "Project RE-DO," an award-winning DEI training program, and the launch of the “Equity In Focus” podcast, which discusses pressing DEI challenges and promotes dialogue across various audiences. He has also developed crucial resources like "The Ten Commandments of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion©" and DEI Toolkits that are instrumental in shaping inclusive corporate cultures.
Currently, Kevin is expanding his impact as Head of Diversity Initiatives & Strategic Partnerships at Rolling Out Media, where he boosts engagement through DEI-focused content and strategic alliances that enhance the brand’s influence and commitment to diverse representation.
An author, producer, and revered inclusion strategist, Kevin Hooks continues to inspire change, advocating not just for policy shifts but for a transformative approach to how organizations and societies embrace diversity and inclusion. His leadership is a beacon for anyone committed to making a significant positive impact in the world.
Podcast Host
Advocate, Leader, Storyteller
I believe that adding a human element to an art concept is the most organic way to represent our touch in the world.
Speaker, Presenter, Host
Convener, host, & speaker - Rolling Out’s Virtual DEI Summit
Host for Agents & Strategies RideCon
Thought Leader
I am a DEI thought leader committed to fostering inclusive environments where every individual feels valued and empowered. My focus is on building strategies that not only address diversity and equity but also embed these principles into the core operations of organizations to drive meaningful change.
From Origin to Opportunity: Contextualizing the Fight for DEI
Don't Be a Dinosaur: A Friendly Nudge for Generation X to Keep Evolving
Standing Up for Inclusion: The Necessary Response to Duke University’s Scholarship Changes
Digital DEI Content Creator
Equity G - DEI Satire
DEI Strategist
DEI Project Management Tool
This isn't just project management; it's a revolution. Picture a tool that doesn't just adapt to change but thrives on it, constantly revising and refining to reflect the evolving landscape. Catalyze360 isn't simply content with stability; it craves it, ensuring your project stands resilient
DEI Toolkits Unplugged is a do-it-yourself guide to design DEI toolkits across divisions enterprise wide.
DEI Audit’s Unplugged provides probing questions that can help organizations gather critical data and information to assess their current DEI status, identify areas for improvement, and develop strategies to promote a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
Kevin E. Hooks
Location
Washington, D.C.
