Ruth Sessler Bernstein - Author

Dr. Ruth Sessler Bernstein is an assistant professor of nonprofit management at Pepperdine University. Ruth earned an undergraduate degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and MS from Brown University, both in geology. Subsequently she received a MA in philanthropy from Indiana University’s School of Philanthropy and a Doctorate of Management from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of management. Ruth was an assistant professor of nonprofit studies at the University of Washington Tacoma (2015-2020). Her publication and research interests focus on (1) diversity and inclusive interactions, and (2) nonprofit governance.

In 2021, her book, Performance Through Diversity and Inclusion: Leveraging Organizational Practices for Equity and Results was published with co-authors Judy Weisinger and Paul Salipante. Ruth is a regular presenter at ARNOVA (Association for Research in Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action) and AOM (Academy of Management). Her publications have appeared in numerous nonprofit and management journals, including Nonprofit Management and Leadership, Equality, Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly, and Journal of Business Ethics. 

Diversity and Inclusion in Nonprofit Governance: No More Excuses! eBook