Heather Berthoud

Heather Berthoud is an esteemed Adjunct Professorial Lecturer in the Department of Public Administration and Policy at American University. With a rich career spanning over 25 years in organization development, she has carved a niche for herself in the realms of nonprofit management and community change. Her expertise is widely recognized, particularly in the Washington, DC area, where she founded Berthoud Consulting, a leading resource for organization development. A proud alumna of American University's Master of Science in Organization Development (MSOD) program, Heather has contributed significantly to the academic community. She has taken on roles such as Learning Community Facilitator, Practicum Advisor, and instructor for the Introduction to Organization Development course. Her commitment to education is further exemplified by her co-development of the Use of Self in Professional Practice residency, a program designed to enhance professional self-awareness and effectiveness. Heather's teaching prowess is well acknowledged, with students and peers alike rating her highly for her engaging and insightful instruction. Her scholarly contributions include numerous articles that delve into the intricacies of diversity, change leadership, and strategic planning. Her thought leadership is also evident in her frequent appearances as a featured presenter at both regional and national conferences, where she shares her insights on diversity and organizational strategy. In addition to her academic and consulting roles, Heather is deeply invested in fostering leadership and community change. Her work often intersects with her research interests, which include nonprofit management, diversity, and the dynamics of organizational change. Through her efforts, she aims to inspire and equip future leaders to drive meaningful change in their communities. Heather's dedication to her field is matched by her passion for mentoring the next generation of leaders. Her approach to teaching and consulting is characterized by a deep understanding of the complexities of organizational dynamics and a commitment to fostering inclusive and effective leadership practices. Her contributions continue to shape the landscape of organization development and public policy education.