Rachel DeSoto-Jackson believes in the power of education to create meaningful change. She has dedicated her career to making learning spaces more inclusive, helping people grow, and using creativity to solve real-world challenges. Whether she’s training faculty, working with business leaders, or using theatre to teach leadership, her goal is always the same—empowering others.
As Director of the Center for Teaching Excellence at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), Rachel helps educators refine their teaching methods and integrate DEI into their work. But her impact extends far beyond the classroom. She collaborates with major organizations like the Smithsonian Institution and Virginia Public Media, offering corporate training and consulting to drive positive change.
In this interview, Rachel shares her thoughts on success, entrepreneurship, and productivity.
How do you define success, and how long did it take you to find it?
Success is an ongoing process for me. It’s not about reaching a final destination but continuously working toward meaningful change. The impact I want to create goes beyond money or job titles. It takes time, persistence, and a willingness to grow. Real success happens in the small, everyday steps that move me closer to my bigger goals.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
A good entrepreneur knows how to bring out the best in people. They inspire others, even those who don’t fully share their vision. It’s not just about having great ideas—it’s about making others believe in them. The best leaders build momentum by creating excitement, fostering collaboration, and turning individual strengths into collective success.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
Proving the value of DEI initiatives was a challenge. Many organizations focused on short-term goals and didn’t see the immediate impact. To change that, I relied on data and real outcomes. I showed how inclusive practices improved teamwork, innovation, and overall performance. Trust took time, but by building strong relationships and demonstrating measurable success, I helped leaders see DEI as a long-term investment, not just a checkbox.
What’s one trend that excites you?
Theatre in leadership training is gaining traction, and for good reason. Role-playing and simulations push people out of their comfort zones, helping them see different perspectives. They improve communication, build empathy, and sharpen decision-making skills. It’s hands-on learning with real impact, shaping leaders who can adapt and connect in any situation.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self to be patient and trust the journey. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and every setback is a lesson, not a failure. Take smart risks, stay open to feedback, and keep pushing forward. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you—they’ll help you grow in ways you never expected.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Motivation starts with clarity. When I feel unfocused, I step back, take a deep breath, and reset. A few moments of stillness help me clear my mind and refocus on what matters. It’s a simple habit, but it makes a big difference in staying productive and energized.
Takeaway
Talking with Rachel DeSoto-Jackson was inspiring. Her passion for education, diversity, and leadership shines through in everything she does. She reminds us that success isn’t just about personal achievements—it’s about making a difference.
Her journey shows the power of persistence and adaptability. She faced challenges, found creative solutions, and stayed committed to her mission. Whether it’s helping organizations embrace DEI or using theatre to teach leadership, Rachel proves that real change happens when we listen, learn, and take action.
Her advice? Trust the process, set clear priorities, and take breaks when needed. Simple, but powerful. Words we can all learn from. To learn more about Rachel, follow her on Facebook.