Roderick D.S. Wheeler — Author
Researcher. Social Innovator. Advocate.
Books and published works exploring economic justice, community-based crime prevention, and the strategies that move communities forward.
About the Author
Roderick Wheeler is a researcher, social innovator, and advocate for positive community change with expertise spanning criminal justice, education, youth and workforce development, philanthropy, and social enterprise. He has spent nearly two decades committed to improving residents' quality of life and transforming communities from the inside out.
A native of Indianapolis, Roderick is passionate about social innovation and investing in strategies that empower people and disrupt the oppressive systems that stifle economic opportunity and social mobility especially within communities of color.
While serving in the U.S. Army, Roderick earned an MBA with a concentration in Human Resource Leadership from Franklin University. He holds a BA in Sociology and African American Studies and an MPA in Urban Studies and Nonprofit Management, both from Indiana University. He has completed multiple executive education programs at Harvard.
Published Works
Books by Roderick D.S. Wheeler
All books are available for purchase on Amazon.
Stand In Solidarity
Published 2023
How the Private Sector Can Fulfill King's Dream of Economic Justice and Equality
Roderick Wheeler explores the root causes of economic inequality and develops a practical frameIn Stand In Solidarity, Roderick Wheeler explores the root causes of economic inequality and develops a practical framework for private sector leaders to identify the policies and practices that drive racial disparities. The book offers business leaders a guide to intentionally dismantling racism by strategically investing resources, leadership, and innovation capital through deliberate strategies that close labor market inequities.
A must-read for business leaders seeking to make a meaningful social impact in the wake of the George Floyd murder and the global protest movement that followed, Stand In Solidarity uncovers the limits of current corporate DEI initiatives while charting a new path toward authentic economic justice, one that would improve market competitiveness, expand economic growth, and advance Dr. King's dream of equality.work for private sector leaders to identify the policies and practices that drive racial disparities. A guide to intentionally dismantling racism by strategically investing resources, leadership, and innovation capital closing labor market inequities and advancing Dr. King's dream of equality.
The Right Time to Do Right
Published 2022
Community-Based Crime Prevention and Juvenile Justice Strategies
A blueprint for collective impact approaches to reducing violent crime and recidivism while promoting labor market participation through education and workforce solutions. This book draws on Roderick's direct experience in community development and provides a research-grounded framework for community leaders, policymakers, and philanthropists working to transform the conditions that drive juvenile justice involvement.
Published 2025
Long-COVID: Talent Series Research Findings
A landmark mixed-methods research study on the lasting workforce and organizational impacts of COVID-19 on the nonprofit sector, conducted in partnership with United Way of Central Indiana. This research publication is available for download.
PUBLIC SPEAKING
Roderick Wheeler — Speaker & Thought Leader
Roderick is an experienced national speaker and thought leader on social impact strategy, racial and economic equity, workforce development, and philanthropic investment. He has delivered keynote addresses, panel presentations, and convening facilitation for audiences ranging from national grantmakers to state-level policymakers.
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