2023 TOP 15 INFLUENTIAL WOMEN in Diversity are Guides on the DEI Journey

Kalisha Holland Crafts DEI Strategic Vision at BNSF Railway


Kalisha Holland is the Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer and General Director of Talent Acquisition at BNSF Railway. Kalisha leads company-wide initiatives to attract, engage, develop, and retain a diverse workforce, fostering inclusion, equity, and a sense of belonging across BNSF. She developed and launched the Diversity and Inclusion Summit, which brings employees nationwide together to learn how to further diversity, equity, and inclusion at BNSF. Kalisha has a strong DEI commitment from top leaders, including the President and CEO, executives, and business unit leaders.


Kalisha is instrumental in the intentional creation of a culture of equality and belonging. She is a recognized leader known for crafting the requisite strategic vision to achieve business goals. Kalisha works tirelessly to create opportunities for sharing diverse perspectives, and develops critical internal and external relationships to support the growth of DEI. She is affiliated with multiple nonprofit organizations and serves on the Board of Directors for Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains and the JPS Foundation. She is continually looking for ways to make a positive impact at BNSF and in the community.


Favorite Quote: If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward. - Martin Luther King Jr.