About Stokes Strategy & Consulting
Stokes Strategy & Consulting (SSC) is a global firm dedicated to helping leaders and organizations move from words to sustainable action. We specialize in creating access and cultivating cultures of inclusion through strategic consulting, leadership development, and training.
Our approach leverages data, dialogue, and equity-driven practices. We work with individuals at all levels of the organization to make access and inclusion a part of the infrastructure of the organization and not an add-on. It is imperative that leadership has the skills necessary to create inclusive environments where all can thrive and lead authentically.
Our Guiding Principles
We use data and research to identify barriers to inclusion and belonging, and guide targeted, measurable solutions.
Name the Problem
Real change begins with transparency, accurately identifying and addressing systemic issues.
Constructive Dialogue: Be Comfortable with the Uncomfortable
Access and inclusion require self-reflection, critical dialogue, and challenging norms. Measurable progress happens when we lean into discomfort and take bold, necessary action.
Debias Systems
True inclusion comes from transforming policies and structures not just individual behaviors.
Equity is Everyone's Responsibility
The work of access and inclusion should not be carried solely by historically marginalized groups. Creating sustainable change requires active engagement from all, especially those in positions of power and privilege.
Dr. Alexis J. Stokes-Burks is an international speaker, access and inclusion strategist, and leadership development expert with over 15 years of experience advancing organizational transformation across higher education, non-profit, and corporate sectors.
As Founder and Chief Strategist of Stokes Strategy & Consulting, Alexis partners with mission-driven institutions to design inclusive policies, cultivate equitable practices, and build cultures where all individuals can thrive. She has worked with organizations such as Harvard University, Center for Quantum Networks, University of Southampton, American Association of State Colleges and Universities, Shorelight Education, Bulter University, Society of Photo-optical Instrumentation Engineers, and the ILA Global Conference.
Previously, Alexis served as the Associate Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer for Harvard University and the Assistant Dean for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. In these roles, she led institutional change efforts, developed inclusive leadership frameworks, and guided cross-functional teams to achieve strategic DEIA+ goals.
Dr. Stokes-Burks holds a B.S. in Psychology from Xavier University of Louisiana, an M.Ed. in Community Counseling from the University of Georgia, and an Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership and Policy from Vanderbilt University. She is certified in Cultural Intelligence (CQ) and Unconscious Bias through the Cultural Intelligence Center.
A thought leader in inclusive leadership, creating access, and sustainable equity work, Dr. Stokes-Burks is a contributing author of:
- “Unlocking Long-Term Sustainability with a Culture That Drives Innovation and Gender Diversity” – exploring how inclusive cultures fuel innovation and success.
- “A Framework for the Sustainability of WOC DEIA+ Practitioners” – offering strategies to build community and career sustainability for women of color in equity leadership.
With a dynamic speaking style and deep commitment to systemic change, Alexis equips leaders to build access, foster belonging, and lead with impact.
Originally from New Orleans, LA and raised in Mobile, AL, Alexis comes from a family educators and public servants. She is an unapologetic advocate for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and credits her success to the strong foundation Xavier University of Louisiana provided. A third generation HBCU graduate, Alexis proudly carries the spirit of her ancestors in her work every day.
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Xavier University 40 Under 40 Honoree
Xavier created the 40 Under 40 program in 2014 to identify and engage high-achieving younger alumni, who are well positioned to serve as advocates and ambassadors for the university, and who have demonstrated a commitment to maintaining a lifelong relationship with the university.
Awards
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice Award
by the ACE Women's Network of Massachusetts
40 Under 40 Award
by Xavier University of Louisiana
Donald A. Gatzke Dissertation Award
by the American Association of University Administrators
Dean "Venky" Narayanamurti Staff Award
for Excellence in Mentoring and Community Building
Murray-Cunningham Memorial Scholarship
Daniel Saks Memorial Scholarship
Rousseve Scholar
Education
Vanderbilt University
Doctorate of Education in Higher Education Leadership and Policy
University of Georgia
Master's of Education in Community Counseling
Xavier University of Louisiana
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Minor in Social Work
