As Chief Strategy Officer and Senior Advisor to the President, Tayo Clyburn plays a pivotal role in steering the foundation toward its new strategic vision. He serves as a guide and resource for the staff through the implementation of the foundation’s strategic plan. He works with senior leadership and program leaders to pinpoint strategic opportunities for innovation and impactful change through the foundation’s initiatives. In his capacity as a trusted advisor to the president, Clyburn offers invaluable insight into internal priorities, addressing challenges, shaping culture, and guiding key decisions.

Throughout his career, Clyburn has assumed significant leadership roles, including dean of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Colby College, and vice president for inclusive diversity and equity at St. Mary’s College of Maryland. Before these roles, he was the executive director for mission and strategic partnerships in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at The Ohio State University. His work has consistently involved cross-functional efforts, collaborating with senior leaders, staff, and community members to weave inclusive and equitable practices into the fabric of organizational operations and programs.

Clyburn holds a BA in English from Winston-Salem State University and an MA and PhD in English from The Ohio State University, where his research focused on critical race theory and post-civil rights African American literature.