#United States #Pittsburgh #Advanced Leadership Institute #Carnegie Mellon University #Executive Leadership Academy

Celebrating Diversity in Leadership: The 2025 Executive Leadership Academy

The Advanced Leadership Institute (TALI), in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University's Tepper School of Business, has proudly announced its 2025 Executive Leadership Academy (ELA) cohort, marking the seventh class of this transformative program aimed at fostering leadership among Black professionals. Following a rigorous selection process, 21 exceptional leaders have been chosen to participate, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the table.

Purpose and Vision of ELA

The primary aim of the ELA is to address the distinct challenges faced by Black executives in today's corporate landscape. This initiative not only focuses on educational growth and skills development but also emphasizes the importance of personal connections and networking, essential for aspiring leaders in senior management roles. Participants will engage in an immersive curriculum designed to equip them with advanced strategies for navigating executive environments.

A Wealth of Experience

Session content is delivered by the accomplished faculty from Carnegie Mellon, ensuring that participants receive a high-quality educational experience. Beyond academic learning, the program also provides avenues for executive coaching and mentorship from established leaders, which has proven to be invaluable for many of the alumni.

TALI's extensive alumni network consists of 255 Black leaders across Pittsburgh and beyond, including 155 graduates from the ELA itself. The success stories emanating from previous cohorts reinforce the program’s impact; a remarkable 100% of the 2024 ELA cohort agreed that their abilities to contribute to organizational success had improved following the program, with an impressive 90% acknowledging positive career growth attributed to their experience.

Statements from Leadership

Evan Frazier, President and CEO of TALI, expressed his pride in the launch of this new cohort, emphasizing the significant role it plays in the ongoing journey of leadership development for Black professionals. He stated, _“As we start a new year, I am proud to announce and celebrate this seventh cohort of the Executive Leadership Academy, a huge milestone for TALI. I have seen first-hand how this program provides individuals with transformative experiences both personally and professionally.”_

Isabelle Bajeux-Besnainou, Dean of the Tepper School of Business, shared her excitement for the new cohort, stating, _“It has been our pleasure to provide academic support for The Advanced Leadership Institute over the last several years in its effort to position diverse leaders for executive advancement.”_

Kick-Off Ceremony and Future Aspirations

The new cohort will be officially welcomed during the 2025 Executive Leadership Academy Kick-Off Program and Reception on January 24th. This event will feature notable speakers, including John Hawkins, President of FirstEnergy Pennsylvania, who will deliver the keynote address, alongside remarks from representatives of both TALI and CMU.

The 2025 ELA cohort comprises an impressive array of leaders from varied sectors:

• - Mike Belgrove, Chief Human Resources Officer at Life'sWork of Western PA
• - Kwame Burroughs, Senior Director at UPMC Health Plan
• - and many more skilled professionals from notable organizations, each poised to enhance their contribution to community and corporate prosperity.

About TALI

The Advanced Leadership Institute is dedicated to empowering Black leaders to drive personal growth and foster positive outcomes in both business and community contexts. In partnership with Carnegie Mellon University and supported by key regional corporations and foundations, TALI continues to champion diversity in leadership roles.

As TALI strives to uphold its mission, the success of its alumni network is a testament to the program’s influence, showcasing the potential for transformative changes in corporate America through the guidance and education provided by the Executive Leadership Academy.

For further details on the Advanced Leadership Institute and the impactful work they do, visit www.taliinstitute.org.