Kyra Leigh Sutton, Ph.D., joined Rutgers School of Management and Labor Relations in 2018. With over 16+ years of work experience, Dr. Sutton brings a unique perspective to her research and teaching. She’s spent half of her career in academics and half in corporate roles, leading global talent assessments.

Dr. Sutton’s research focuses on early career transitions into the workplace and diversity, equity, and inclusion. She’s written more than 30+ articles on early career workplace transitions, including more recent features in Fastcompany and SHRM. Henry Stewart Talks invited Dr. Sutton to deliver a 10-part lecture series focused on early career professionals transitioning to the workplace. Dr. Sutton teaches human resources management courses for undergraduate and graduate students (e.g., Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for HR Professionals, Talent Development, Talent Acquisition). In 2021, she received the James R. Chelius Teaching Excellence Award.

Dr. Sutton received a B.A. with honors and distinction in Economics from the Ethel Waddell Githii Honors Program at Spelman College and M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in Human Resources Management from The Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business. Although Dr. Sutton is a 4th generation college graduate, she is the first person in her family to receive a Ph.D.

Dr. Sutton is grateful for the encouragement from her family and close friends, her professors at Spelman College and The Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business, and mentors from The PhD Project. Finally, Dr. Sutton appreciates the support of the Kendall Hunt team especially, Emily Lenstra and Sue Saad.