Celebrating the Success of the 2025 Executive Leadership Academy
The Advanced Leadership Institute (TALI) and Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) proudly commemorate the exceptional achievements of the graduates from the Executive Leadership Academy (ELA). This event marks a significant milestone as 21 remarkable leaders complete a six-month journey focused on overcoming challenges faced by Black leaders and their allies in today's dynamic landscape.
The Essence of the Executive Leadership Academy
Designed for senior-level professionals, the ELA offers a transformative experience centered around academic learning, executive coaching, mentorship, and valuable peer networking. Participants gain advanced skills and tools tailored to enhance their leadership capabilities, empowering them to create positive impacts within their organizations and communities.
Reflections from Leadership
"Congratulations to this year’s Executive Leadership Academy graduates! These 21 talented individuals not only showcase the depth of talent in our community but also exemplify the growth of the influential TALI Alumni Network, which now boasts over 300 high-performing leaders. We eagerly anticipate their future accomplishments, both personally and professionally," stated Evan Frazier, President and CEO of The Advanced Leadership Institute.
Isabelle Bajeux-Besnainou, dean and Richard P. Simmons Professor of Finance at CMU, expressed pride in their partnership with TALI. "The participants in the 2025 Executive Leadership Academy have acquired essential tools and insights essential for thriving in various leadership roles while also contributing richly to their communities," she remarked.
Ceremony and Keynote Address
The upcoming ceremony will gather TALI and CMU families to celebrate the graduates. The keynote address will be delivered by TALI Alumna Dina Clark, EdD, the Senior Vice President of Inclusion & Engagement at Skanska USA Building, Inc., inspiring attendees with her journey and insights.
Meet the Graduates
Providing a glimpse into this year’s graduating cohort, the following leaders have successfully completed the program:
- Mike Belgrove, Chief Human Resources Officer, Life'sWork of Western PA
- Kwame Burroughs, Senior Director, Medicare Business and Development Group, UPMC Health Plan
- Kiel Chapman, Production Manager, PPG
- Lauren DeDomenic, Deputy Chief of Staff, Policy and Partnerships, Office of Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato
- Sherlyn Harrison, Chief Program Officer, Pittsburgh Scholar House
- Kashif Henderson, Executive Director, Neighborhood Learning Alliance
- Tinisha Hunt, Chief Executive Officer, Macedonia FACE
- Ja-Neen Jones, Chief Executive Officer, TRAC Services for Families
- Denise McGill-Delaney, Chief Operating Officer, Gwen's Girls
- Tere McKinney-Bundy, Associate General Counsel, Labor and Employment, Form Energy
- Jacques Moye, Attorney at Law, Clark Hill
- TaJane Nolen, Director, Product Management, American Eagle Outfitters
- Sierra Parm, Operations Director, A. Philip Randolph Institute
- Kendra Ross, Head of Social Impact, Duolingo
- Gizelle Sherwood, Director of Undergraduate Studies and Laboratories, Teaching Professor in Chemistry, Carnegie Mellon University
- Jada Shirriel, Chief Executive Officer, Healthy Start, Inc.
- Juel Smith, Associate Dean of Science and Executive Director of Homewood-Brushton Center, CCAC
- Sylvia Smith, Director, Contract Management & Operations, Highmark
- Tony Thompson, Counsel, Dollar Bank, FSB
- Yalanda Wells, Commercial Banker, Bank of America
- Latasha Wilson-Batch, Executive Director, Best of the Batch Foundation
The Future of the Executive Leadership Academy
Looking ahead to 2026, the Executive Leadership Academy will interface with the National Executive Leadership Academy (NELA). Currently, NELA is accepting new applications for the next cohort, welcoming senior-level professionals across various sectors who boast a minimum of ten years of work experience. This program prepares leaders for successful advancement in their respective fields by offering enriching coursework and networking opportunities.
The mission of The Advanced Leadership Institute focuses on empowering leaders and fostering diverse leadership within communities. Through exceptional educational experiences tailored for Black leaders and their allies, TALI is committed to creating a supportive environment for all qualified applicants. Program content developed in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University aims to ensure every participant leaves with the necessary insights and strategies to excel in their roles.
For those interested or needing more information, visiting TALI's official website will provide detailed instructions on applying and the various programs available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Executive Leadership Academy?
The Executive Leadership Academy is a program designed by TALI and CMU to support Black leaders and their allies, offering executive education focused on leadership development.
Who were the key speakers at the graduation ceremony?
Dina Clark, EdD, a TALI Alumna and Senior Vice President, will be delivering the keynote address at the ceremony.
How long is the Executive Leadership Academy program?
The program spans six months, comprising various educational components such as coaching and mentorship.
What can participants expect to gain from the Executive Leadership Academy?
Participants can expect to acquire advanced tools and perspectives that will enhance their leadership capabilities and positively influence their organizations.
What is TALI's mission?
TALI aims to empower companies and communities by developing leadership through world-class executive education tailored to support leaders and their allies.
