Diana McQuarrie

Bio

Diana McQuarrie is an accomplished strategic leader and engaging educator with over 25 years of cross-sector experience in executive leadership, program development, board governance, and leadership training. Diana’s skills in strategic planning, stakeholder management, and consensus building are valued across industries for driving meaningful results.

Professional Background

Diana has been teaching at the University of Denver for over a decade and has served as Expanded Lead Faculty for the Strategic Human Resources and Organizational Leadership graduate programs at University College. She has also contributed as a subject matter expert for the revision of several graduate-level courses.

Previously, Diana was the founding Executive Director of Denver Pet Partners, a pioneering non-profit organization dedicated to improving community health through animal-assisted therapeutic intervention. Her leadership at Denver Pet Partners spanned 15 years, during which she developed it into a model program—the first of its kind in Colorado.

Earlier in her career, Diana held senior leadership positions at the American Humane Association and Starwood Resorts (now Marriott Hotels), where she spearheaded initiatives that delivered measurable results through fostering and sustaining strategic partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders. Committed to strengthening communities, Diana has served on several non-profit boards and committees, including the International Leadership Association. She is also the past Chair of the Board of Directors at Guide Dogs for the Blind, the largest guide dog school in the U.S.

Diana is certified in strategic alliance management and actively contributes to the International Organization for Standardization as a subject matter expert. In collaboration with global peers, she represents U.S. interests in the development of international standards aimed at fostering high-performing, value-driven business relationships.

Education

Diana holds an M.S. in Organizational Leadership from Regis University and a B.A. in Communications from Biola University.

Helping Students be Successful

Students appreciate Diana’s passionate teaching style which uses dynamic questioning and thought-provoking discussions to inspire critical thinking, encouraging students to go beyond the course material and unlock their full potential.