Valerie Toney Parker

Former Chief People Officer
Rev. Dr. Parker is a bi-vocational leader.  She has built a successful career as a Human Resources Executive in CPG, manufacturing, distribution, and non-profit industries where her work has been focused on labor negotiations and relations, human resources strategy, performance management, organizational development, racial equity, and change management with companies such as Tyco Fire & Security, Southern Wine and Spirits, and U of Chicago Booth School of Business.  Parker has rebuilt and strengthened Human Resources Departments in many organizations by focusing on employee engagement and building trusted relationships. Most recently, her work at The Greater Chicago Food Depository has resulted in cultural change through the work of engaging employees in race and gender equity learnings and conversations.

Parker’s other vocation focuses on the intersectionality of theology, social justice, and capitalism. The social justice organization founded by her, The Consciousness Bar (TCB), focuses on Black Church prophetic preaching, engaging young adults in matters of social justice, advocacy and African Diasporic teachings and rituals.  She also uses TCB as a platform for deepening young adult’s understanding of their African heritage through pedagogical methods and sojourns to the continent of Africa. 

Dr. Parker earned her B.A. in Psychology from The Johns Hopkins University, MBA in Labor Economics from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Master of Divinity in Liberation Theology from Chicago Theological Seminary, and Doctor of Ministry from McCormick Theological Seminary in African-Centered Religious Thought and Ministry.  

She enjoys playing tennis and basketball, traveling, and spending time with her adult sons and new granddaughter.

Stories by Valerie Toney Parker