Bio
As the Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer for the ACLU, Ish continuously drives the ACLU toward greater equity, creating lasting change through inclusive policies and practices that enhance a culture of belonging. In this role, Ish champions an innovative approach to conflict resolution rooted in relationship building and evidence-based practices, which fosters collaboration and understanding among staff members. She strongly believes that cultivating meaningful connections strengthens problem-solving abilities and equips teams to navigate conflicts effectively, ultimately leading to a more cohesive and supportive workplace.
Before joining the ACLU, Ish served as a Senior Equity Specialist at a top-10 university, where she successfully designed and implemented initiatives and policies for a diverse campus community. Her successful track record in higher education underscores her ability to create tangible impact within complex organizations. Earlier in her career, Ish practiced law for nearly a decade and has held various roles as an advocate in the anti-violence movement, a social worker, and a multimedia producer.
A trusted leader, advisor, and practitioner, Ish was recently recognized as a Compassionate Leader for her commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace and is also the recipient of the 2024 Authentic Leadership Award from the National Diversity Council. Ish earned both her JD and Master of Social Work from Loyola University Chicago, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. A theater enthusiast and lifelong creative, she believes that the world is a better place when we share and honor each other’s stories.