Shirley Knowles

Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer - Advocate - Self Improvement Book Nerd

Dr. Shirley J. Knowles is the Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer at Progress, a leading provider of products for developing, deploying, and managing high-impact business applications.1 She was appointed as the company's first Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer, taking on this role to lead Progress' initiatives in fostering a culture of inclusion, diversity, and belonging.1 3

Professional Background

Dr. Knowles brings extensive experience in the field of inclusion, equity, and diversity:

Prior to joining Progress, she served as the first diversity and inclusion officer at Homesite Insurance in Boston.1 3
She has also worked in corporate communications at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts and taught cultural diversity classes at Le Cordon Bleu.3

Responsibilities at Progress

In her role at Progress, Dr. Knowles is tasked with:

Developing strategies, initiatives, and practices to support an inclusive, equitable, and diverse workplace.2
Partnering with Progress' executive leadership team and Board of Directors.1
Chairing the employee-led Inclusion and Diversity Committee.1 2
Working closely with employee resource groups (ERGs).1 2
Leading efforts to attract, retain, and grow diverse talent.1
Serving as a spokesperson for Progress' inclusion and diversity practices.1

Educational Background

Dr. Knowles has an impressive academic background:

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from Northeastern University.1 3
Master's degree in Leadership Studies from North Central College.1 3
Dual master's degrees from Simmons College in Gender/Cultural Studies and Communications Management.1 3
Bachelor's degree in Communications from Marquette University.1 3
Certificate in Multicultural Leadership from North Central College.1 3

Personal Interests

Outside of her professional life, Dr. Knowles:

Is an avid sports fan, particularly of the Atlanta Braves.3
Enjoys traveling to learn about other cultures, with Norway being her favorite destination.3
Supports causes such as To Write Love on Her Arms, a nonprofit assisting people struggling with mental health issues.3

Dr. Knowles is committed to creating an environment at Progress where all employees feel valued, engaged, safe, and successful.2 Her approach focuses on listening, taking action, and creating safe spaces for growth and difficult conversations.2 3