Matt Grimes (he/him) is an award-winning Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) leader focused on helping organizations build engaged, culturally proficient, and diverse workforces.As a multiracial millennial and functional poverty survivor, Matt is a strong advocate for social justice and inclusive leadership. Over the past decade, he has provided culturally responsive leadership, consulting, and executive coaching to schools, non-profits, cities, and corporations across the U.S. and Latin America.Matt’s work has earned him multiple honors, including recognition as one of Engage Cleveland’s “24 Emerging Professionals You Need to Know” (2024), a Crain’s Cleveland “40 Under 40” honoree (2023), and the Siena College Alumni of Excellence and Franciscan Spirit Award (2022). He also led his organization to win the NorthCoast 99 Special Category in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award (2022).Currently, Matt serves as the Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Cleveland Guardians Baseball Organization. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Race/Ethnic Studies from Siena College and a Master’s degree from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where he was an Equity & Inclusion Fellow. He is also pursuing a Doctorate in Interprofessional Leadership and Equity at Kent State University.In addition to his professional role, Matt serves on the boards of Teach For America - Ohio, Near West Theatre, and Get in the Game. He is a former U.S. Fulbright Scholar and Teach For America alumnus.
Listed skills include Microsoft Office, Research, International Relations, Spanish, and 17 others.