Zahida Sherman

Zahida Sherman is a dedicated professional in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) with extensive experience across higher education institutions and corporate environments. Currently serving as the Director of Culture and Belonging at SCI-Arc, Zahida designed and launched the institution's inaugural 5-year DEI strategic plan and has successfully integrated DEI into performance reviews while overseeing numerous Employee Resource Groups. Previous roles include Director at Oberlin College, where Zahida managed DEIB education for over 3,300 campus members and developed mental health resources, and Assistant Director at the University of the Pacific, focusing on support initiatives for African American and Black students. Zahida has also contributed to leading diversity efforts at Sheppard Mullin LLP and has extensive experience in student recruitment and mentorship from time at Kenyon College. Zahida holds a Master of Arts in History from Northwestern University and a Bachelor's degree in Cultural Anthropology from Ithaca College.