Jessica Diaz, PhD, is a scholar-practitioner dedicated to advancing research and evidence-based practices that foster authentic and empowered employee experiences. She is the founder and director of the ExCo (The Employee Experience Collective), a group of scholars and practitioners who collaboratively conduct, disseminate, and implement research aimed at improving key aspects of employee experience.
At Claremont Graduate University, Diaz chairs the applied doctorate program in organizational psychology, where she leads curriculum development and supports students through mentorship and advising. She advises both PhD and PsyD students and serves on numerous dissertation committees. Her research examines the psychological processes and organizational conditions that shape the employee experience, and she regularly contributes to both academic and practitioner journals as well as presenting at conferences in the field.
Diaz teaches courses in organizational psychology and statistics, drawing on her background in education and leadership development to create applied, inclusive, and engaging learning environments. She has been recognized by students and colleagues for her clarity, energy, and commitment to meaningful learning.
In addition to her academic role, Diaz is a managing partner at BCD Consulting Group, a firm specializing in public-sector selection and development. She also consults independently as an executive coach and facilitator, working with both private and non-profit organizations.
Prior to joining CGU, Diaz earned her bachelor’s degree from Cornell University and spent over a decade in education and leadership development, including roles as a high school principal and managing director of leader development at Teach For America.
Co-authored with Stephen Young. “The future is here: A benchmark study of digitally enabled assessment and development tools.” Consulting Psychology Journal: Practice and Research. Advance online publication, (2021).
Co-authored with Reichard, R. J., and Riggio, R. X. ”The Need for Longitudinal and Non-Linear Methods in Leader Development Research.” In David Rosch & Lindsay Hastings (Eds.). New Directions in Student Leadership Research. New York: Wiley, 2022.
Co-authored with Kea-Edwards, A. N., and Reichard, R. J. “Development or discrimination: Black women leaders’ experience with multisource feedback.” Consulting Psychology Journal: Practice and Research, (2022).
Co-authored with Shults, S. G., Reichard, R. J., Pitichat, T., and Kea-Edwards, A. N. “Pursuing your leader development: Lessons from 101 Executives.” Organizational Dynamics, (2022).
Intermediate Statistics; ANOVA; Applied Multiple Regression; Categorical Data Analysis; Factor Analysis; Structural Equation Modeling; Principles of Human Resource Management
