We provide a comprehensive suite of consulting, digital, and training solutions that help organizations assess and embed engagement at every level of their supply chain.  Our team members, having incorporated supplier inclusion best practices at leading universities for many years, are equipped to provide tailored solutions that:

• Develop a blueprint for redefining the supplier inclusion value proposition for higher education.
• Position supplier inclusion to contribute to key institutional objectives, including:

• • Operational excellence
  • Student recruitment
  • Fundraising and development
  • Community relations

RGMA Trailblazers

Practice Area: Higher Education

University Of Chicago 2008-2009

Henry (Hank) Webber: Vice President for Community and Government Affairs

Nadia Quarles: Business Diversity Leader

The Opportunity:

In 2008, the University of Chicago’s award-winning supplier inclusion program primarily focused on the facilities department, as was common at most universities. During discussions with Ralph Moore, Hank Webber explored the opportunity to enhance the University’s relationship with Chicago’s underserved communities by expanding engagement with minority- and women-owned businesses beyond just facilities. That conversation led to RGMA being retained to develop a business plan for establishing a top-tier supplier inclusion program and to conduct a search for a practitioner with the experience and insights needed to implement and lead the improved strategy.

The Solution:

After a national search, RGMA recommended Nadia Quarles, who was leading the contract compliance program for Chicago Public Schools, to head the newly established University of Chicago Business Diversity Program. RGMA created a tailored business plan based on its best practices and worked closely with Ms. Quarles during its implementation.

The Results:

Nadia Quarles leveraged her extensive experience and the RGMA Action Plan to create one of the top higher education supplier inclusion programs in the country. Additionally, University President Robert Zimmer and University Trustee John Rogers, CEO of Arial Investments, strongly supported the initiative, which was a key factor in the Business Diversity Program’s success. This commitment to supplier inclusion strengthened The University’s connection with Chicago residents, the business community, and elected officials. In addition, the university’s supplier inclusion leadership added to its reputation as one of the world’s leading higher education institutions.

Postscript

Hank Webber:

Mr. Webber joined Washington University in St. Louis in 2008 and served as Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Administrative Officer for 13 years. He is currently a Principal at Urban Impact Advisors and serves as Board Chair of Invest STL.

Nadia Quales:

Ms. Quarles directed the Business Diversity Program at the University of Chicago for 17 years before she left in 2025.

RGMA:

In 2008, there were eight RGMA Best Practices; now there are ten. Additionally, the development of the RGMA Digital Assessment and Strategy Tool has enabled the firm to scale our higher education practice, which was a key factor in RGMA becoming an official Business Partner of E&I Cooperative Services, the leading Group Purchasing Organization for educational institutions.  This tool is currently used by a number of higher education and healthcare institutions.