Lisa Merchant-Harrell is the Chief Human Resources Officer for Cleveland Avenue, LLC. where she also serves as Executive Director for the Entrepreneurial Development and Leadership Institute. Before joining Cleveland Avenue, Lisa served in various executive leadership roles, including Vice President of Executive Development for United Health Group, and as CEO of AMD HR Consulting.

In addition to her professional career, Lisa serves her community faithfully as a member of The Top Ladies of Distinction and her beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She is also the Immediate Past Chair of Governors State University Board of Trustees.

Lisa holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interpersonal Communications and a Masters in Human Resources from the University of Illinois. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in Interdisciplinary Leadership in Nonprofits and Social Entrepreneurship at Governors State University.

Lisa is the recipient of numerous professional and civic honors including recognition as a 2021 Chicago United Business Leader of Color. She is the proud mother of three amazing young adults, Darryl, Maya, and Aria, and a tireless champion of our next-generation leaders!