Dr. Wendy Cukier

Professor of Entrepreneurship and Strategy and Academic Director of the Diversity Institute, Ryerson University

Wendy Cukier is Professor of Entrepreneurship and Strategy and Academic Director of the Diversity Institute at the Ted Rogers School of Management Ryerson University. Dr. Wendy Cukier is one of Canada’s leading experts in disruptive technologies, innovation processes, and diversity and inclusion. The  Diversity Institute works with partners on projects (including several with OCC) aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion in leadership and entrepreneurship. Wendy leads the  Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, funded by the Government of Canada which promote inclusive supports for women and other diverse entrepreneurs. Wendy was also an integral part of the bid for the new $260m Ryerson-led Future Skills Centre, funded by the Government of Canada and now leads a program of research focused driving innovative approaches to bridges the skills gap. She has helped create and grow several successful startups and social ventures including Flybits, Think2Thing, the Madeleine Collective, and Growing North (now Green Iglu).

Wendy received many awards for her work advancing diversity and inclusion, including the Meritorious Service Cross, one of Canada’s highest civilian honours. She has been recognized with the Harry Jerome Diversity Award,  the 2019 CATA Alliance Sara Kirke Award, a YWCA Women of Distinction Award, WXN most powerful women and, most recently, the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion, Community Builder Award.  She has an MA, MBA, PhD in Management Science and two honorary doctorates.