Brian Richardson Jr.

Brian Richardson Jr. serves as an Adjunct Instructor at Indiana University's Paul H. O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, where he previously directed diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. His work focuses on creating inclusive environments through leadership development, mentorship, and cultural competency training for young men of color and institutional stakeholders.

Education:

• B.S., Culver-Stockton College, 2011
• M.S. in Kinesiology, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2013
• Ph.D. in Higher Education and Student Affairs (in progress), Indiana University

Richardson's research examines systemic barriers in educational spaces, with emphasis on manhood/masculinities development and transformative leadership models. His community-centered approach integrates restorative justice principles into diversity frameworks, particularly through youth mentorship programs targeting underserved populations.

Professional Recognition:

• Forum on Workplace Inclusion’s Power of the Future Award (2019)
• NASPA IV East Outstanding Mid-Level Student Affairs Professional Award (2019)
• City of Bloomington Chamber of Commerce 10 Under 40 (2018)
• NASPA Now Emerging Leader for Inclusion Award (2018)
• NASPA MMKC On Campus Service Award (2018)
• IU MLK Day Building Bridges Award (2018)
• City of Bloomington Outstanding Black Male Leader of Tomorrow (2017)
• Lillian C. Franklin Diversity Award (2016)

Richardson secured statewide grants for cultural competency training serving healthcare professionals and early childhood practitioners, and implemented university-wide programs for faculty, staff, and students. He founded the Krimson Leadership Academy (2016), mentoring 4th–6th grade boys through weekly sessions focused on identity development and leadership skills, supported by partnerships with Kappa Alpha Psi and campus student groups.

He chairs the Black Faculty and Staff Caucus at Indiana University and co-chaired the NASPA Region IV East African American Knowledge Community. His TEDx talks and media features (Big Ten Network, Bloom Magazine) highlight innovative approaches to dismantling systemic barriers in educational ecosystems.