Diane L. McClelland is a pioneering force in the nonprofit sector, championing initiatives that empower and support women and girls. As co-founder and chief executive officer of Girls STEAM Institute™, Ms. McClelland has built innovative programs that inspire the next generation of leaders to tackle global challenges with creativity, collaboration, and technological acumen. Her efforts have profoundly shaped opportunities for women and girls, helping them to access resources, develop their skills, and achieve their aspirations in fields that demand ingenuity and leadership.
Ms. McClelland’s academic foundation reflects her commitment to excellence and preparation for her influential career. She pursued international business, trade, and commerce coursework at Portland State University in the School of Business, equipping her with a nuanced understanding of global markets and business practices. She earned a Dartmouth executive education leadership certificate to enhance her leadership abilities, which deepened her strategic decision-making and organizational development expertise. These educational pursuits have played an integral role in her professional achievements, providing her with the tools to lead transformative initiatives.
Ms. McClelland’s leadership journey began with creating the Foundation for Women Business Owners, where she served as president and chief executive officer. From the outset, Ms. McClelland demonstrated an extraordinary ability to identify and address barriers women entrepreneurs face. By fostering networks, resources, and educational opportunities, she enabled countless women to excel in their businesses. Her work earned national recognition, and President Clinton appointed her to serve on the Small Business Administration National Advisory Council. As vice chair, she leveraged her expertise to advocate for policies that advanced the interests of women in business, further amplifying her impact.
Building on these early successes, Ms. McClelland founded Astra Society International, later known as Astra Women’s Business Alliance, in 1999. As president and chief executive officer, she developed this organization into a significant platform for supporting women-owned businesses. Under her leadership, Astra Women’s Business Alliance became a hub for innovation, collaboration, and growth, fostering an environment where women entrepreneurs could thrive. Ms. McClelland’s tenure with the organization spanned nearly two decades, during which time she worked tirelessly to expand opportunities for women, leaving an indelible mark on the business landscape.
In 2014, Ms. McClelland co-founded the Girls STEAM Institute™, an international nonprofit that embodies her lifelong dedication to empowering young women. As chief executive officer, she has directed the organization’s efforts to provide girls ages 13 to 18 with groundbreaking programs that merge entrepreneurial education with STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) disciplines. By incorporating virtual reality and other immersive technologies, the Girls STEAM Institute™ offers participants an innovative platform to engage in global collaboration and problem-solving. These programs challenge young women to address complex issues such as climate change and mental health, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and preparing them to become influential leaders in their respective fields.
Ms. McClelland’s accomplishments reflect a deep commitment to creating meaningful change. Her ability to connect with others through curiosity, empathy, and a positive mindset has been the cornerstone of her success. By focusing on the unique needs and potential of women and girls, she has implemented programs that are impactful and sustainable, ensuring that her work continues to benefit communities well into the future. She has received numerous accolades and awards, recognizing her visionary leadership and innovative approach to addressing social and economic challenges.
Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. McClelland finds immense pride in her personal life, particularly as a mother and grandmother. She views her family as a source of inspiration and motivation, grounding her work in compassion, resilience, and determination. These principles guide her as she takes on new challenges and opportunities, always striving to leave the world better than she found it.
Looking forward, Ms. McClelland is spearheading a global movement to expand the representation of women in the supply chain industry. Her vision focuses on increasing the number of prime women contractors in global supply chains, leveraging the talents of Gen Z and millennial women and men as first- and second-tier STEAM contractors. By integrating immersive technologies and partnering with Corporate America and women-owned businesses, she aims to create a ripple effect of economic empowerment. This initiative promises to generate a significant transfer of wealth, empowering women and their families while reshaping the landscape of global supply chains.
Ms. McClelland’s contributions extend far beyond the organizations she has founded. She has redefined what is possible for women and girls in business, technology, and leadership, fostering a culture of innovation and inclusion. Her vision and dedication inspire individuals and organizations worldwide, ensuring that opportunities for growth and empowerment remain accessible to those who need them most. Through her tireless efforts, Ms. McClelland exemplifies the transformative power of leadership, proving that one person’s determination can create a ripple effect of positive change that spans generations.