Dr. Adrienne S. Lawson is an academic administrator and educator with more than 30 years of experience. She joined PRIDE Industries in October 2020 as Director for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion; and oversees AA/EEO Compliance. She also is a part-time faculty member at Sacramento State where she is an advisory board member for the Education doctorate program. Prior to her tenure, she served for six years as the Senior Director for Health Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at UC Davis Health in Sacramento, CA. Her primary responsibilities at the medical center included working with leadership in the Schools of Medicine, Nursing, and in Medical Education on climate needs assessment and reporting, continuous diversity improvement, and anchor institution mission for community health. Adrienne’s professional career has centered on removing barriers, creating inclusive spaces, and equitable opportunities for those underserved and most vulnerable.
As a Los Angeles native, Dr. Lawson was the first in her family to attend college and up to now, the only person in her family to earn a doctorate degree. She obtained a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University and a masters and doctorate degree from California State University, Sacramento. She credits her academic success and perseverance to the many mentors in her life that saw something in her, that she did not see in herself. One of her favorite mentoring quotes is by Oprah Winfrey, “A mentor is someone who allows you to see the hope inside yourself.” Dr. Lawson’s experiences drive her passion to empower, provide visibility, and opportunities to those in the academy that are historically disadvantaged.
When not at work, Adrienne enjoys church and community activities, exercise, and spending time with her family.
