She Steps Up: Keshia Grinnell

She Steps Up is a monthly recognition series that shines a light on women in the footwear industry. The theme for this month’s spotlight is “Equity Advocates: Women Advancing Fairness, Access, or Representation in their Workplaces or Communities.”

Keshia Grinnell

Title: DEI Manager

Company: Rack Room Shoes, Inc.

Tenure in Industry: 6-10 years 

Why Keshia Grinnell is an equity advocate, according to her colleagues: 

Keshia Grinnell leads Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) programs and initiatives at Rack Room Shoes, Inc. In her role, she reinforces training and mentorship for new associates, promotes monthly diversity spotlights, and has increased the visibility of the company’s DEI efforts through partnerships with industry and national organizations focused on lifting women and people of color. She has also been instrumental in WIFI’s two leadership summits that were held at Rack Room Shoes’ corporate headquarters.  

Her colleague and frequent collaborator Tracy Fitzgerald noted that Keshia’s work has contributed to a “collaborative, welcoming environment” for all Rack Room Shoes employees. 

“She is a strong advocate for people of color and women throughout our company,” Tracy said. “Keshia has tirelessly fought for Rack Room team members in the field to overcome obstacles and hardships by connecting and collaborating with our human resources department.” 

Keshia’s commitment to equity also extends to her role managing the company’s internship program. 

“She has been a passionate advocate for mentoring women through our highly successful college internship program, which has led to the permanent hiring of several talented women,” Tracy said. “Through her ongoing support, leadership, and collaboration, Keshia consistently champions inclusivity and helps foster a more welcoming and equitable culture across our organization.” 

Colleague Sarah Newsom, who has worked with Keshia on several employee training initiatives, described Keshia as a “fantastic teammate” who focuses on helping others achieve success alongside her and works to elevate minority-owned brands whenever possible. 

“She and her team work hard to hire minority-owned businesses for our events and they work to donate to various charities,” Sarah pointed out. “Often, our employees don't even see or know the work that her team does behind the scenes.” 

Advocacy is central to Keshia’s work, not simply because of her role, but because of the way she approaches her work every day. Her leadership, collaborative spirit, and focus on lifting others makes her a true equity advocate and a deserving recipient of this month's recognition. 

About She Steps Up  

She Steps Up is a monthly recognition series from Two Ten’s WIFI Community that shines a light on women in the footwear industry whose leadership, creativity, and impact are shaping our industry in meaningful ways. Whether they are driving innovation, mentoring others, making bold moves, or doing the often unseen work that keeps teams strong, these are the stories worth celebrating. 

Each month, the series features individuals from across the industry who exemplify leadership, collaboration, and community. Nominations are welcome across all roles, experience levels, and sectors of the footwear industry, including design, HR, production, marketing, retail, administration (such as finance, accounting, and legal), and beyond. While the series centers on uplifting women, we also welcome nominations for individuals of all gender identities whose work reflects these values.