Sheryl Cababa
Author of Closing the Loop
Sheryl drives a human-centered design practice that is focused on systems thinking and evidence-based design, working on everything from robotic surgery experience design to reimagining K-12 education through service design. In her work with consultancies such as Substantial, frog, and Adaptive Path, she has worked with a diverse base of clients including the Gates Foundation, Microsoft, IHME, and IKEA. She holds a B.A. in journalism and political science from Syracuse University.
Sheryl is an international speaker and workshop facilitator. When she’s not in the office, she can be found at the University of Washington helping educate the next generation of Human-Centered Design and Engineering students. You might also find her biking around Seattle, or talking about her most recent complicated baking project.
Rosenverse talks by Sheryl:
" If scientists came up with a device that would slash the likelihood of ending up in a nursing home or depression, we'd be clamoring for it, but instead it's geriatrics—a systemic, incremental solution. "
Integrating Systems Thinking Into Your Practice as a Designer
October 1, 2025
" Pilots and prototyping create evidence to inform decisions, making change more achievable and less risky. "
Thinking in systems to address climate with Sheryl Cababa
June 12, 2024
" Most people’s fears about AI are actually fears about capitalism. "
Day 2 Panel
June 5, 2024
" Today's problems come from yesterday's solutions. "
Living in the Clouds: Adopting a Systems Thinking Mindset
June 6, 2023
" Systems thinking requires collaborating with diverse stakeholders rather than working in isolation. "
Expanding your Design Lens with Systems Thinking
March 28, 2023
" There is no silver bullet in system-level challenges; multiple interventions across different domains are needed. "
Expanding Your Design Lens with Systems Thinking
February 23, 2023
