OVERVIEW:Durell Coleman is the Founder and CEO of DC Design, a social impact strategy and design consultancy that partners with foundations, nonprofits, and governments to eliminate multi-generational poverty and uplift Black, brown, and low-income communities. With over a decade of experience, Durell uses Human-Centered Design and Systems Thinking to help clients redefine community needs, develop strategies, and design lasting, impactful solutions.SOCIAL IMPACT RESULTS:Durell has worked to redesign foster care, criminal justice reform, healthcare models, and education. His efforts have led to reductions in mass incarceration, homelessness, economic inequality, and Black infant mortality. Trained in mechanical engineering (B.S.) and sustainable design (M.S.), Durell is a two-time alumnus of Stanford University and its Institute of Design (Stanford d.school).AS EDUCATOR:A passionate social entrepreneur and educator, Durell teaches at Stanford University d.school, the Graduate School of Business, and the University of Texas Center for Integrated Design. He focuses on entrepreneurship, design thinking, leadership, and social change. He developed "Designing a Life of Purpose" and the award-winning “Design the Future” summer program, which teaches high school students to design products for people with disabilities.AS BOARD MEMBER:Durell is an active board member and mentor. He serves on the Board of Mazzetti, an employee-owned Benefit Corporation dedicated to creating healthier environments. He has made significant contributions through his role on the governance committee.AS A SPEAKER AND WRITER:Durell is a sought-after speaker and writer known for fresh perspectives on social impact, community fortification, and wealth building. His talks, including “What if We Build Black Wealth Instead?” and “Designing Pathways to Greatness: Fortifying Institutions and Individuals Through Systems Innovation,” inspire audiences to recognize the potential within themselves and their communities to drive change. He challenges conventional approaches to social impact, focusing on solutions that uplift and empower.As a writer, Durell regularly publishes articles on fortifying communities and building true wealth. His works, including “Redesigning the Criminal Justice System in the U.S.” and “How to Make Sure Your Nonprofit’s Strategic Plan Isn’t a Waste of Time,” blend practical strategy with deep reflection. His writing, filled with personal anecdotes and empathy, promotes resilience, self-determination, and a belief in the inherent worth of every human being
