Dr. Waajida L. Small, Ph.D.
Dr. Waajida L. Small, Ph.D., is an award-winning Human Resources executive, two-time bestselling author, and leadership coach committed to helping professionals lead with confidence, clarity, and wellness. With over 20 years of experience supporting leaders across diverse industries, Dr. Small has witnessed the challenges of leadership firsthand, particularly for those who give endlessly to their teams and organizations. Her own journey navigating career, family, and personal well-being has inspired her mission: to help leaders achieve professional excellence without sacrificing their health or personal fulfillment. As Chief Human Resources Officer at Trinity Church NYC and Founder & CEO of Capital Conscious U, LLC, Dr. Small combines strategic HR expertise with heart-centered coaching. She specializes in executive leadership development, workplace wellness, talent management, and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Dr. Small also brings her insights as a Wharton CHRO Fellow, a certified life and executive coach, and a workplace wellness coach on the Aura app, guiding leaders through career transitions, burnout recovery, and purpose-driven growth. Dr. Small’s contributions extend beyond corporate leadership to thought leadership and community impact. She is the author of Be Well to Lead Well, recognized as a finalist for the 2025 Goody Business Book Awards, and serves on advisory boards for organizations including Wonder Women Tech. Her work reflects a steadfast commitment to honesty, integrity, and the belief that when leaders prioritize their well-being, they transform not only their own careers but the organizations and communities they serve.
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Human Capital Management
• MBA, Executive Management
• BA, Management and Administration
• Wharton Executive Education – Chief Human Resources Officer Program
• Certified Life and Executive Coach
• Results Certified Coach
• Certified Purpose Leader
• Human Capital Strategist
• Certified Strength Coach
• Certificate, Human Resources Management
• Certificate, Strategic Human Resources
• Bellevue University – Ph.D., Human Capital Management
• St. John’s University – MBA, Executive Management
• The City College of New York – BA, Management and Administration
• Cornell University – Certificate, Strategic Human Resources
• Villanova University – Certificate, Human Resources Management
• Wharton Executive Education – Chief Human Resources Officer Program, Executive Presence and Influence: Persuasive Leadership Development
• Two-time Bestselling Author
• Goody Business Book Awards 2025 Finalist, Be Well to Lead Well
• SHRM
• Idealist.org
• Rutgers University Big Data Analytics Certificate Program
• Inaugural Chair of the Board, Emerging Global Leaders Circle
• United Nations Association – Southern New York Division
• Wonder Women Tech
• YMCA of Yonkers
• Black Doctoral Network Inc
• Philanthropy New York
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my education, my ability to navigate career progression effectively, and my strong people and communication skills.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I advise young women to find a strong mentor and to choose a company that aligns with their values.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty and integrity are central to both my professional and personal life.