Black History Month: Dr. Loretta Caldwell-Thompson

Meet Dr. Loretta Caldwell-Thompson, President & CEO of Caldwell Management Solutions! 

GH: Tell us a little about yourself & your business
 Dr. Caldwell-Thompson: I’m Dr. Loretta Caldwell-Thompson, a seasoned professional with many years of experience in organizational development, leadership, and fostering inclusive environments. Throughout my career, I’ve held various leadership roles in academia, non-profit and corporate settings, where I’ve gained valuable insights into the importance of creating environments where every individual feels valued and respected. From this belief of value and respectability, CaldwellManagement Solutions, founded by me, specializes in providing comprehensive consulting services to organizations seeking to cultivate inclusive cultures and promote a sense of belonging among their employees. Our mission is to help businesses enhance their organizational effectiveness by leveraging diversity, fostering collaboration, and creating cultures of respect and equity while enjoying what they do. 

GH: What inspired you to start your business/what is your “why”?
Dr. Caldwell-Thompson: The inspiration behind founding Caldwell Management Solutions stems from my deep-rooted passion for social justice and equity. Throughout my professional journey, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of diversity, inclusion in driving organizational success. My ‘why’ is to teach and empower organizations to embrace diversity as a strength and create inclusive cultures where every individual feels valued and respected. I believe that by partnering with organizations to implement effective diversity and inclusion strategies, we can not only improve workplace dynamics but also drive innovation, creativity, and ultimately, business growth.

GH: What advice would you give to others looking to start/grow their business?

Dr. Caldwell-Thompson: Starting and growing a business requires dedication, resilience, and a strategic mindset. My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to begin with a clear understanding of your mission, values, and target audience. Conduct thorough market research to identify gaps and opportunities in your industry. Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, advisors, and peers who can offer guidance and perspective. Be adaptable and willing to pivot as needed, and never underestimate the power of continuous learning and self-improvement. Lastly, prioritize building strong relationships with your customers and stakeholders, as their support and feedback will be instrumental in your business’s growth and success.

GH: What does Black History Month mean to you?
Dr. Caldwell-Thompson: Black History Month holds profound significance for me as a time to honor the legacy, contributions, and resilience of Black individuals and communities throughout history. It’s a time to celebrate the achievements of trailblazers who have fought against systemic oppression and paved the way for progress in various fields, including civil rights, science, arts, and culture. As a Black business owner and diversity advocate, Black History Month serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards racial equity and justice. It’s a time to amplify Black voices, stories, and experiences, and to reflect on the importance of acknowledging and addressing systemic barriers that continue to impact Black communities. It’s also a time for education, celebration, and inspiration, as we strive to build a more inclusive and equitable society for future generations.

GH: How can the community support you and your business?
Dr. Caldwell-Thompson: Community support is essential for the success of Caldwell Management Solutions in our mission. There are several ways the community can support us. Firstly, by referring to organizations and businesses that are committed to fostering diversity and organizational change to our consulting services. Additionally, spreading awareness about our work through word-of-mouth, social media, and professional networks can help us reach more clients and expand our impact. Collaboration on community initiatives, events, or partnerships focused on transformational change also provides opportunities for mutual support and amplifies our collective impact in creating more inclusive environments.