Empowering Future Leaders: The 2026 Emerging Leaders Program
In an exciting collaboration, The Advanced Leadership Institute (TALI) and Carnegie Mellon University are proud to announce the launch of the 2026 programming year, highlighting the fifth cohort of the Emerging Leaders Program. This initiative aims to educate and connect Black leaders and their allies, positioning them for success in their respective fields.
Program Overview
The Emerging Leaders Program is rooted in a strong partnership with Carnegie Mellon University's Tepper School of Business, with additional collaboration from institutions like the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University. This program is designed to prepare both early and established leaders for significant career progression.
Innovative Learning Model
This year, the program incorporates a new six-month hybrid learning model that enhances the educational experience. Participants will focus on building critical leadership skills while delving into topics such as negotiation strategies, managerial effectiveness, and innovative problem solving. Furthermore, the program emphasizes community building through peer networking and mentorship opportunities.
Welcoming a New Cohort
The official launch of the 2026 Emerging Leaders Program took place with a full day of classes and a special cohort reception. This year's cohort consists of 29 diverse professionals from a myriad of industries, reflecting the breadth of talent involved in the program.
Community Celebration
In February, the Emerging Leaders Program cohort will have the unique opportunity to join participants from the National Executive Leadership Academy at TALI’s Community Welcome Reception. This occasion will serve to formally introduce the two cohorts to each other and the wider TALI network, setting the tone for collaboration and growth among future leaders.
Leadership Opportunities and Support
As Evan Frazier, President and CEO of TALI, remarked, "Congratulations to all those selected for this year's Emerging Leaders Program cohort. We created the program five years ago as a part of our continued commitment to supporting and cultivating the next generation of senior leaders. Given the exceptional talent in this year's cohort, I am confident we will see meaningful and positive outcomes."
Isabelle Bajeux-Besnainou, Dean of the Tepper School of Business, expressed enthusiasm for the program's potential. She states, "We look forward to working with the 2026 Emerging Leaders Program cohort and remain excited about our role in supporting the growth of professionals as they gain the tools they need to succeed."
Meet the 2026 Cohort
The participants of the 2026 Emerging Leaders Program include an exceptional group of individuals:
- Brandon Bell – Manager, Financial Compliance, Wabtec Corporation
- Melanie Marie Boyer – CEO, Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce & Foundation
- Meisha Boykin – Assistant Vice President of Community Development, Dollar Bank
- Dr. Alexus Brown – Senior Research Scientist, Center on Race and Social Problems
- Kenya Brown – Project Manager, Allegheny County Department of Human Services
- Gabriella Davis – Program Manager, Crossroads Foundation
- Joshua Devine – Economic Mobility Officer, The Pittsburgh Foundation
- Nikki Feagin – Grants Manager, The Citizens Science Lab
- Albert Garcia – Director of Development and Corporate Partnerships, Neighborhood Learning Alliance
- Gabrielle Green – Operations Analyst Intermediate, UPMC Corporate Services
- Precious Jackson – Operations Analyst, FHLBank Pittsburgh
- Dorian King – Cybersecurity Engineer, CORE Natural Resources
- Uttam Kumar – Engineering Manager, American Eagle Outfitters
- Keira Lee – Treasury Analyst, Bank of America
- Nasha Magwood – Business Systems Analyst, PRT
- Sidnee McDonald – Associate Attorney, Cozen O'Connor
- Christopher Peace – Assistant Teaching Professor of Business Management Communication, Carnegie Mellon University
- Christopher Pierre – Client Service Representative, BNY
- Rachee Powell – Manager, Diversity and Inclusion, FedEx Corporation
- Cody Rogers – Store Leader, Giant Eagle
- DeAnna Santoro – VP, Enterprise Initiatives Manager, TriState Capital Bank
- Weldianne Scales – Staff Attorney, Reed Smith LLP
- Julius Shead – Senior Business Recruiter, Duolingo
- Niko A. Simmons – Intermediate Care Facility Director, Valley Community Services
- Gabrielle Thomas – Client Project Manager, Highmark Health
- Regina Wagstaff – Supervisor, CNX
- Beverly Wilkes Jr. – Grants Manager, McAuley Ministries
- Cheriese Williams – Practice Operations Specialist, Allegheny Health Network
- Terrel Williams – Program Manager, Homeless Children's Education Fund
About The Advanced Leadership Institute (TALI)
The Advanced Leadership Institute’s mission is clear – to enhance the strength of companies, institutions, and communities by fostering leadership through exceptional executive education programs tailored for the benefit of Black leaders and their allies. By equipping participants with essential strategies, insights, and networking opportunities, TALI ensures they are well-prepared to thrive.
To discover more about The Advanced Leadership Institute, visit www.taliinstitute.org
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2026 Emerging Leaders Program?
The 2026 Emerging Leaders Program is an initiative by TALI and Carnegie Mellon University designed to develop Black leaders and their allies.
Who can participate in the program?
Professionals seeking leadership development, including both early and established leaders, are encouraged to apply.
What topics are covered in the program?
The program offers training in managerial effectiveness, negotiation strategies, and innovative problem solving, among others.
How does the hybrid learning model work?
The new six-month hybrid learning model combines online and in-person sessions to enhance participant learning and collaboration.
What is TALI's mission?
TALI aims to cultivate leadership in communities by providing executive education focused on supporting Black leaders and their allies.
