About Evelyn Carter
Social psychologist. DEI leader. Data geek.
I’m a social psychologist who studies how we detect and discuss racial bias, and how we can do both more effectively. My research has been funded by the National Science Foundation and published in peer-reviewed journals as well as popular press outlets. What I love most is bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world practice. Over the past 15 years, I’ve worked as a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) consultant across a wide range of industries, including higher education, financial services, tech, retail, and professional sports.
My approach to DEI is rooted in evidence, empathy, and clarity. I strive to make complex concepts feel approachable. I bring together my love of research, pop culture, and strategy to create insights that actually stick. I’m honored to be the recipient of the Little, Brown Spark New Voices Award, and my first book, Was That Racist? How To Detect, Interrupt, and Unlearn Bias in Everyday Life will be released in January 2026.
I earned my B.A. in Psychology from Northwestern University (Go 'Cats!), my M.A. in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and my Ph.D. in Psychology from Indiana University. I now live in sunny Southern California with my husband and our two daughters. We love taking bike rides to the beach, and we also spend our free time watching TV and movies, including The Great British Bake Off, true crime documentaries, and Ms. Rachel or Aprende Peque.
Was That Racist?
Was That Racist? is a re-education, call to action, and practical guide, full of research-backed strategies including how to: cultivate a growth mindset about bias, unlearn colorblindness and practice color consciousness, talk to kids about race and racism – and bring others along for the journey.
