Dr. Debra Mixon Mitchell
Shifting equity from aspiration to action
I work alongside organizations to build equitable and inclusive cultures where everyone can thrive. Through consulting, education, and thoughtful partnership, we create lasting change together.
About
A retired University of Denver Adjunct Professor and Ph.D. in Intercultural Communication with 20+ years of experience, I shift equity from aspiration to action. I facilitate transformational organizational change by developing equity-centered leaders and co-creating inclusive plans.
My research-based approach builds organizational cultures where people are valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive.
How I Work
I believe in partnership over prescription. Together, we'll examine your organization's culture, identify opportunities for growth, and develop strategies that create meaningful, sustainable change.
Teaching Philosophy
I center students by affirming their backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives. My classroom is a space where we critically examine ideology, hierarchy, and power in workplace culture—always with respect and curiosity.
Experience
Founder & Principal
2020 - PresentDRD Equity Consulting
Design and facilitate transformative DEIB training and strategic planning for leaders building healthy, inclusive cultures. Develop and implement integrated equity systems – from data gathering to progress analytics – to anchor sustainable transformation. Coach executives to deepen self-awareness, master inclusive leadership, and enhance culturally responsive decision-making.
Senior Consultant & Facing Racism Program Lead
2019 - 2022Soul 2 Soul Sisters
Co-created and delivered anti-racism curriculum for interfaith leaders, building foundational knowledge and practical skills. Optimized racial equity programs through strategic consultation, ensuring learning translated into critical thinking and actionable steps.
Diversity Recruiting Director
2012 - 2019University of Denver
Championed Inclusive Excellence as an institutional imperative by designing and implementing the infrastructure for equitable hiring, from policy creation to diverse recruitment. Served as the primary subject matter expert, coaching institutional leaders to advance diversity, inclusion, and cultural competence.
Key Achievement
Under my leadership, BIPOC faculty hiring increased from 16% in 2012 to 41% in 2015.
Adjunct Professor
2004 - PresentUniversity of Denver
Teach undergraduate and graduate level courses including Intercultural Communication; Power, Privilege, and Oppression; Disrupting Privilege through Anti-Oppressive Practice; and Multicultural Social Work Practice. Cultivate learning environments where students critically analyze systems of oppression and develop practical, culturally responsive skills.
Education & Credentials
Ph.D. in Human Communication
University of Denver
Emphasis: Intercultural Communication
Master's Degree in Social Science
University of Denver
Emphasis: Applied Communication
Bachelor's Degree in Sociology
University of Colorado at Boulder
Professional Certifications
- Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) Qualified Administrator
- Conflict Resolution Certificate, Cornell University
Honors & Awards
Amicus Universitatis Award
University of Denver, 2021
Robin Morgan Outstanding Staff Woman Award
University of Denver, 2018
Excellence in Teaching Award
Graduate School of Social Work, 2016
Outstanding Service Award
University of Denver, 2014
Let's Connect
I'd love to hear about your organization's goals and explore how we might work together. Whether you're interested in consulting, speaking engagements, or simply want to connect, please reach out.