Championing DEI within Continuing Education: An Interview with Alexis B. Outlaw
Meet Alexis B. Outlaw, MSM, SHRM-CP
A philanthropic icon
In her role as Assistant Professor of Business Administration & Human Resources at Mount Mary University, Alexis Outlaw focuses on the multi-faceted functions of business, human resources, and education (K-12 and Higher Ed), as both an employee and independent business consultant. Her work history and personal passion for serving in corporate, not for profit, and educational settings shapes her outlook on the intersection of these communities and how best to create sustainable change.
Alexis’ esteemed accolades and involvement include a 2024 Philanthropic 5 Award, Secretary to the Board of Exploit No More, Vice President of Membership of NAAAHR-Milwaukee: National Association of African-Americans in Human Resources - Milwaukee Chapter, and Owner & Executive Consultant with A.B. Outlaw Consulting. With a specialization in DEI, talent acquisition, and training and development, Alexis has created, shaped, and impacted company culture within these organizations and throughout our community.
What is the best professional advice you have received?
Your employees are your best asset, train, develop, and empower them. You do this, you will build loyalty and belief in your mission and vision.
What is the best advice you could give your younger self upon beginning your career?
Do not think if you work hard, are pleasant in the workplace, and “wait your turn”, that you will be promoted. Always seek opportunities to gain more knowledge and skill in order to position yourself for leadership.
How can young professionals excel in the workplace?
Seek mentorship from those who are in the industry or spaces you look to fill one day. If you ask someone to help guide you, be sure to offer your own talents and treasure as well. Reciprocity will get you the furthest as you look to gain experience.
What are your best tips for those that are new to networking?
Practice in the mirror!
Small talking and networking is awkward for many, it is not a natural practice. I always position myself by thinking of three things about myself that I am open to sharing based on the day and use those ideas as my “social spring board” for engagement. It helps me not overthink my socializing.
What do you wish the generations ahead of you, and behind you, knew?
Collaboration with all, amongst all, at all times is key to organizational success, so never discount the contributions of any generation, at any time in the workforce. Remember those before you, built it, and those to follow will seek to improve it.
Why is mentorship important?
Mentorship has been profoundly instrumental to my professional and personal development. Establishing what you are seeking from the experience as a mentee is helpful in grounding yourself in what it could mean for your future trajectory. A good mentor is going to ask of you, just as they will pour into you. It should be a strategic relationship that is rooted in an understanding that you are looking for guidance and support, but you also have something to offer you mentor.
What does being a first generation professional mean to you?
As a first generation professional, I think it means that you have to be responsible for your own growth and development in the workplace. Being mindful of the areas you still need to develop, the spaces you want to explore, or parts of your work where you know you thrive, are all key in ensuring you can stay relevant and in the mix of opportunities that you may be eligible for based on your own drive.
and finally, What do you love about Milwaukee?
I LOVE Milwaukee because we have a big city line up of social experiences to enjoy – Summerfest, Bucks Basketball, our county parks, ample city festivals, a thriving arts and culture scene, and those things do not come at a big city price tag! There is always something to do, see, explore, or connect to and its really year round.
Find Alexis on LinkedIn.
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