Sidney R. Childs

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT SIDNEY R. CHILDS

A transformational and influential change agent, Dr. Sidney R. Childs is a dynamic, passionate, and dedicated educator and leader of diversity, equity, and inclusion. With a proven history of cultivating communities, teams, and cultures that promote safer and more equitable environments, Dr. Childs authentically and intentionally fosters inclusive excellence no matter the circumstances. Whether overseeing a team of higher education staff or serving as an advisor to executives, Dr. Childs delivers organizational change that embeds DEI and a sense of belonging into cultures, large and small. Recently hired as the first Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer (CDEIO) for the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA), Dr. Childs is tasked with leading the development and implementation of a comprehensive DEI vision and strategy that builds an inclusive, multicultural, and equal opportunity workplace. A tenet of Dr. Child’s holistic approach is actively listening to all stakeholders to best assess, propose, and implement DEI initiatives and programs that behoove all agency team members and shapes culture-rich community involvement. Prior to his role at CMHA, Dr. Childs boasts a 25+-year career in higher education. After graduating from Bowling Green State University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Public Administration in Organization Development, Dr. Childs began his higher education career as the Coordinator of Academic Counseling with the Student Support Services program at BGSU, later transitioning to Director and holding other leadership positions with the University. In 2009, Dr. Childs became the Executive Director of the university’s TRIO programs, seamlessly coordinating four federal program services: Upward Bound, Educational Talent Search, Student Support Services, and McNair Scholarships. In 2013, Dr. Childs earned his Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies, and in 2014 he began serving as the Senior Advisor to the Vice President for Student Affairs as the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, Access, Diversity, and Inclusion. These roles culminated in 2015 when Dr. Childs was hired as the university’s Interim VP for Student Affairs, a role where he thrived as the primary student advocate within the university community. In addition to overseeing numerous programs and 160 team members, Dr. Childs was instrumental in establishing a strong sense of community across the campus serving 17K students.