An example of the organizational catalyst role has emerged in the subset of recent
diversity initiatives that have empowered respected faculty change agents to mobilize
top-down and bottom-up change aimed at increasing the participation of women and
people of color in the academy. Some of the initiatives have created intermediary roles
for influential faculty who use their considerable social capital and legitimacy within key
professional networks to bring information about gender and racial bias to the points
where it influences practice, such as search committees, department chairs, allocating
responsibilities, strategic planning, and accountability. Their background, stature, and
qualifications equip them to play the organizational catalyst’s multiple roles. These individuals
are accomplished scholars with administrative experience within the department
or the university who are known for their commitment to academic quality and equity.
They often come into the position having played a significant role as a mentor to graduate
students and junior faculty and having worked with faculty and administrators at
different levels within the university. They are part of and accountable to professional
networks and communities that will hold them accountable for achieving concrete outcomes
and sustaining change.