About
Dorie Blesoff is an Instructor in the Department of Learning and Organizational Change at Northwestern University’s School of Education and Social Policy (SESP). She has taught since 1997 in the undergraduate program and since 2002 in the Master of Science program. Previously, she served as Chief People Officer at Relativity (a legal tech company) during its rapid growth phase, integrating core values into talent processes and fostering inclusive culture. She also runs an independent consulting practice focused on leadership development and sustainable organizational change.
- Education: M.A. in Organization Development (Loyola University Chicago); B.A. in Political Science and Religion (American University).
Research & Interests: Dorie specializes in designing sustainable strategic change, leadership development, and inclusive workplace cultures. Her work emphasizes human-centered approaches, leveraging tools like appreciative inquiry and design thinking. She advocates for equity in organizational practices and has advised nonprofits, healthcare organizations, and family-owned businesses.
Awards:
- Northwestern University Outstanding Professor Award (2008)
- Associated Student Government Honor Roll (2008-2009)
- Workforce Chicago Award (2009)
- Crain’s Chicago Business “Best Places to Work” (2011)
Teaching & Advising: Dorie teaches courses such as “Designing Sustainable Strategic Change” and “Learning Organizations for Complex Environments.” Her students have received recognition, including the Rashaun Sourles Entrepreneur Award. She prioritizes experiential learning and community engagement.
Labs & Projects: Active in Northwestern’s Center for Learning & Organizational Change, she collaborates on initiatives like “Wagon U” at Radio Flyer, fostering a learning culture in organizations.
