Noble Consulting, LLC
We are deeply committed to advancing critical, socially just education that empowers educators to drive change at the structural level . Our work is grounded in a philosophy of compassion, care, and a belief in the collective power of communities to reimagine education. We partner with educators, institutions, and organizations to strengthen educational ecosystems by centering people, purpose, and equity at ever level of systemic change. Through culturally responsive practices, authentic community engagement, and human-centered design, we support those working to create lasting, structural change that promotes justice, dignity, and belonging for all.
Our Story
Noble Consulting is a Chicago-based education consulting firm co-created by Dr. Claudia Mercado and Carolina Huerta, united by a profound commitment to advancing the field of education through meaningful reimagining of its systems and structures. Grounded in principles of equity, inclusion, and human-centered design, we dedicate ourselves to fostering educational ecosystems where all learners and educators can thrive.
With over 35 years of combined experience in higher education, Dr. Claudia Mercado and Carolina Huerta bring not only deep expertise but also a relational and compassionate approach to every partnership. We understand that meaningful change requires more than strategy, it requires empathy, cultural responsiveness, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
Noble Consulting offers a dynamic range of services, from strategic leadership development and curriculum transformation to equity-centered organizational change, each designed to uplift the voices of those most impacted and to cultivate environments rooted in care and purpose. Our work is informed by a philosophy that centers human dignity and the power of authentic collaboration.
We are dedicated to supporting institutions and change agents who are committed to advancing systemic transformation that is sustainable, just, and reflective of the diverse communities we serve. Through our partnerships, we strive to contribute to a more equitable educational landscape, one that nurtures potential, disrupts inequity, and builds lasting impact.
Dr. Claudia Mercado is a nationally recognized leader in higher education with more than 25 years of experience advancing equity, student success, and institutional transformation. She has served as Vice President for Enrollment Management and as a faculty member at multiple Minority Serving Institutions, and is an Aspen Presidential Fellow and Inaugural Index Impact Fellow.
Claudia’s facilitation style blends storytelling, humor, and data with culturally responsive pedagogy. She has led national and international convening’s, including her recent work in Bangkok, Thailand with the Inya Institute and MCC Consortium on curriculum reform. Her expertise spans strategic planning, enrollment innovation, curriculum leadership, and coalition-building.
Carolina Huerta is an Ed.D. candidate, admissions professional, and equity educator with over a decade of experience in the field of education. She currently serves as Assistant Director for Graduate Admissions at Loyola University Chicago, where she leads bilingual recruitment, inclusive program design, and student support efforts. Carolina’s career has been shaped by her passion for building community and creating access.
She has worked with organizations like Centro Romero and the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Center for Literacy, where she supported adult learners through career pathways, transition services, and community outreach.
She is also a lead consultant with Noble Consulting, where she serves as the lead curriculum strategist. Designing and delivering equity-centered learning experiences that are culturally affirming, strategically aligned, and rooted in transformational leadership.
Beyond her professional work, Carolina is an avid reader who values time spent with family, friends, and community. She finds joy in creativity, long walks with one or all of her four dogs, and creating spaces, both personal and professional, where people feel seen, supported, and inspired.
Leading the Way with Exceptional Educational Services
Noble Consulting is committed to providing services that focus on inclusivity, operational excellence, and compassionate leadership. Our offerings include:
Strategic & Leadership Development
Organizational strategy and visioning
Institutional effectiveness and team alignment
Executive coaching and leadership pipeline development
Academic & Curriculum Expertise
Inclusive course design and curriculum development
Program evaluation and student success frameworks
Culturally grounded pedagogy and faculty training
Facilitation & retreat Capacity Building
Equity institutes, DEI workshops, and learning communities
Retreat facilitation and keynote speaking
Conflict resolution and consensus-building sessions
Operational & Logistical Services
Full-scale event planning and convening logistics
CRM systems, data tracking, and registration workflows
Bilingual communication strategies and outreach campaigns
Let’s Connect
At Noble Consulting, we believe that transformation begins with connection. Whether you’re looking to reimagine strategy, build capacity, or create more equitable spaces in education and social systems, we’re here to co-create solutions with you.
We’d love to learn more about your goals, your challenges, and how we can support your journey toward lasting impact.
Rooted in community. People Centered. Equity Driven.
Claudia@nobleconsulting.org Carolina@nobleconsulting.org