Mort Schwartz Excellence in Education Award

2024 Award Recipient

Jillian Weishaar

Jillian Weishaar is a distinguished and award-winning Education Manager and Diversity & Inclusion advocate, whose career spans over two decades in the corporate retail sector, working with renowned brands like Bath & Body Works and Sephora. At Sephora, she was notably featured in a viral social media campaign celebrating diversity, where she courageously shared her journey with mental health, further highlighting her commitment to mental health awareness.

In 2020, after more than 20 years in the fashion and beauty industry, Jillian made a significant transition into the automotive aftermarket sector, taking on the newly established leadership role of Manager of Education and Diversity & Inclusion at Parts Authority. As the first professional to hold this position, Jillian has been instrumental in shaping and leading the company’s education and DEI initiatives, making a lasting impact on both the organization and the industry. In 2023 alone, Jillian’s efforts resulted in the delivery of 46,000 hours of training through various modes, including the LMS, live virtual sessions, and in-person training. This impressive accomplishment highlights her commitment to making education accessible and impactful for a diverse audience.

Jillian's dedication to education and inclusion is also evidenced by her active involvement in the Auto Care Association's Education Committee, her certification in Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace from the ESSEC Business School, and her extensive training in cultural competence, confronting bias, and inclusive leadership. She is also certified through the Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion, and Advancement (CADIA), further solidifying her expertise in driving positive change within the industry.

Beyond her professional achievements, Jillian is a passionate advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, actively contributing to discussions and initiatives on allyship, positive communication, and gender equity. She has spearheaded numerous DEI programs, including the launch of team member networking groups, the establishment of DEI Hours for personalized support, and the production of the impactful video "The Importance of Words," which focuses on the power of inclusive language.

Jillian is also a sought-after speaker and panelist, sharing her insights and experiences at various industry events, including Auto Care Connect, AAPEX, CADIA, and more. Openly neurodivergent and a mental health advocate, Jillian continues to mentor and support others in their professional and personal journeys, serving as a role model and ally for women and underrepresented groups in the industry.