Recognition Ceremony for 2024 National Executive Leadership Academy Graduates by TALI and CMU

Celebrating the Leaders of Tomorrow

On December 6, 2024, an inspiring celebration is set to take place at the Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It marks the graduation of the 2024 cohort of the National Executive Leadership Academy (NELA), jointly hosted by The Advanced Leadership Institute (TALI) and Carnegie Mellon University. This year, 17 outstanding leaders from various sectors across the nation will be honored for their dedication and achievements in the program.

Since its inception, NELA has focused on empowering Black professionals, addressing unique challenges they encounter as they advance in their careers. Among the leadership programs offered by TALI, including the Emerging Leaders Program and Executive Leadership Academy, NELA stands out for its comprehensive approach to prepare participants for both national and international executive roles.

The curriculum combines three months of engaging online learning with two in-person one-week sessions at CMU, along with a two-day conference held in Dallas, Texas. This hybrid format was specifically designed to facilitate the participation of professionals from diverse regions while ensuring the convenience and flexibility that modern leaders require. Throughout the program, attendees benefit from a mixture of academic knowledge, executive coaching, and invaluable peer connections.

Evan Frazier, President and CEO of TALI, expressed his pride in this year's graduates, stating, “I continue to be amazed at the top talent from across the country who participate in this program. The National Academy has completed its second successful year, and I am proud to see continued progress towards our vision to create diverse, inclusive, and prosperous communities.”

Supporting this initiative, Carnegie Mellon University remains a passionate partner in fostering future leaders. Dean Isabelle Bajeux-Besnainou emphasized the importance of empowering emerging leaders, stating, “This commitment reflects our dedication to empowering corporate communities with the next generation of dynamic, innovative, and diverse leaders.” She congratulated each graduate for achieving significant milestones in their professional journeys.

The graduation ceremony will feature keynote speaker Jaime A. Irick, the new CEO of The Pittsburgh Paints Company, sharing insights from his vast experience in corporate leadership. Irick’s address is expected to inspire the graduates as they take the next steps in their careers, utilizing the skills honed during their time at the academy.

This year’s graduates include remarkable individuals such as Atiya Abdelmalik, Director at UF Health Jacksonville; Sylvana Bonner from FedEx Corporation; and Rita Canton, Director of Engineering Outreach at Carnegie Mellon University College of Engineering. Each participant has demonstrated exceptional dedication and resilience, paving new pathways for themselves and for those who will follow.

TALI remains committed to its mission of cultivating Black executive leadership to enhance organizational performance alongside community development. The institute works in collaboration with notable corporations and foundations, ensuring the continuous progress of its programs. With their dedication to fostering a more inclusive and equitable business landscape, TALI and CMU play a crucial role in shaping future leaders who are equipped to address challenges head-on.

In conclusion, the graduation of the 2024 NELA cohort is not just a celebration of individual achievements; it signifies the collective effort towards creating impactful leadership. With diverse backgrounds and experiences, these new graduates are poised to make lasting changes within their organizations and communities, reflecting the essence of TALI's empowering educational initiatives.