
Dnika J. Travis, PhD
Dr. Dnika J. Travis, former Vice President, Research & Strategy, at Catalyst, is a recognized researcher, educator, and change leader. At Catalyst, Dnika led research initiatives and managed content creation. Her work involved building and piloting the Catalyst Inclusion Accelerator, a diagnostic and action planning tool to help companies measure the state of inclusion for employees and teams. Dnika’s renowned research on emotional tax experienced by people of color at work, along with her expertise on engaging in tough conversations across differences, has been widely published and featured in top-tier media outlets such as CNN, Fortune, and NBC News. She was also named a “2017 Woman Worth Watching” by Profiles in Diversity Journal. Prior to joining Catalyst, Dnika was an assistant professor at the University of Texas at Austin Steve Hicks School of Social Work. Dnika earned her PhD from University of Southern California, MSW from the University of Michigan, and BA from Hampton University.
Dnika J.'s Latest Work

Interrupting Sexism at Work: What Drives Men to Respond Directly or Do Nothing? (Report)
New Catalyst research examines what influences men’s willingness and ability to interrupt sexism at work.

Emotional Tax and Work Teams (Report)
This report reveals that experiences of emotional tax in the workplace are pervasive in Australia, Brazil, Canada, UK, and US.

Allyship and Curiosity Drive Inclusion for People of Color at Work (Report)
Catalyst research shows that allyship and curiosity help create a more inclusive, welcoming workplace for people of color.

Getting Real About Inclusive Leadership (Report)
Catalyst research demonstrates the role managers play in creating inclusive workplaces and highlights the elements of inclusive leadership.
Sexual Harassment in the Workplace (Report)
Take steps now to prevent sexual harassment with these actions taken from vetted research.

Day-to-Day Experiences of Emotional Tax Among Women and Men of Color in the Workplace (Report)
Learn what Emotional Tax is and how it affects both employees of color and organizations.
Emotional Tax: How Black Women and Men Pay More at Work and How Leaders Can Take Action (Report)
Emotional Tax is the experience of being different from peers because of your gender/race/ethnicity and the associated detrimental effects

The Day-To-Day Experiences of Workplace Inclusion and Exclusion (Report)
What does inclusion look and feel like to you? How about to your colleagues?
India Inc.: From Intention to Impact (Report)
Many companies in India are having trouble using diversity-focused policies to create an inclusive workplace where women can succeed.
Think People, Not Just Programs, to Build Inclusive Workplaces (Report)
To create high-performing work cultures, business leaders must pay attention to the people side—how employees connect to the company.
Culture Matters: Unpacking Change and Achieving Inclusion (Report)
This study presents a Corporate Practice Change Model to navigate change and promote inclusion.
Corporate Landscape in Mexico: Understanding Approaches to Talent Management and Women’s Inclusion (Report)
To remain competitive in this global business landscape, talent management—in particular a focus on diversity and inclusion—is critical.