Virtual Event with James Fielding

James (Jim) Fielding

An experienced and respected retail and media industry veteran, Jim Fielding has built his successful career and expertise at the intersection of quality storytelling, innovative product and merchandising, and compelling consumer experiences. Jim currently serves as a Partner at Archer Gray, an independent media company, focusing his energies on building businesses, products, and experiences for its ecosystem of creators and client partners. He also proudly served as a part-time Executive-in-Residence for IU Ventures and The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Indiana University. Jim spent the bulk of his career leading Consumer Products groups at the world’s largest media companies, including Disney, Dreamworks, Awesomeness TV, and Twentieth Century Fox. A known culture and team builder, he has built diverse and visionary teams that have excelled in challenging and competitive marketplaces globally. Jim spent four years as President of Disney Stores Worldwide, completely redefining the digital and physical experience around the globe. He also served as CEO of Claire’s Stores, Inc., the world’s leading destination for teen jewelry and accessories.

Jim’s early experience was firmly rooted in leading global retail companies, including stints at Dayton Hudson, The Gap, Lands’ End, and J. Peterman Company. He built an extensive knowledge base in all aspects of vertical specialty retail, including supply chain, product design, store operations, and visual merchandising. An active community leader and philanthropist, Jim currently serves on the board of directors for the Indiana University Foundation and was a founding member of the Dean’s Council for the Hamilton Lugar Global and International School. Jim is a founder of the Queer Philanthropy Circle, a first-in-the-country fundraising and advocacy group for the queer community. Jim also participates in the Women’s Philanthropic Leadership Circle and the Black Philanthropy Circle. In addition, Jim is a former board member for GLSEN, Make-A-Wish International, and American Red Cross. He has endowed a number of scholarships at Indiana University to support overseas study experiences, international internships, and advocacy leadership training. Jim currently lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with his partner, Joseph, and their dogs, Cricket and Olive. In the summers, you will find them in Leland and Northport, Michigan.

Sherrell Riley

Sherrell Riley (they/them), appointed Secretary of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ) in the Graduate Student Senate in February 2024, is a student advocate for diversity and inclusion with over a decade of experience. Sherrell's impactful work includes supporting DEI research at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and leading initiatives as a Senior Brand Manager intern at Proctor and Gamble, where they pioneered research on multicultural consumer behavior to boost

revenues significantly. Their contributions extend to significant roles in Women Leaders in College Sports and the National Black MBA Association, demonstrating a commitment to DEI both on and off-campus.

Currently pursuing dual master's degrees at the Isenberg School of Management, Sherrell's academic endeavors are aligned with their passion for data-driven decision-making and DEIJ initiatives. As a non-binary, BIPOC, LGBTQ, and neurodivergent individual, Sherrell brings a unique and invaluable perspective to their role, advocating for an inclusive environment that embraces diversity. Through leadership in organizations such as Out at Isenberg, Sherrell exemplifies dedication to creating equitable spaces, underscoring the importance of diverse voices in shaping a just society. Their journey is a testament to resilience, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of equity and justice for all underrepresented communities.