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ROOTED IN COMMUNITY. DRIVEN BY PURPOSE. AALI exists to provide leaders with access to the tools, relationships, and platforms needed to lead with confidence, clarity, and impact.

The mission of African American Leadership Institute (AALI) is to develop, connect, and activate leaders — building the talent pipeline that strengthens Greater Austin's economy, institutions, and civic life.

DEVELOPING LEADERS. POWERING THE PIPELINE. We believe a strong regional workforce depends on who has access to leadership and we're closing that gap. AALI develops professionals into skilled, connected, and activated leaders who are ready to compete and lead at every level of Austin's economy. Our work is grounded in proven leadership development, cross-sector relationship-building, and targeted skills training — equipping professionals with the competencies employers need and that institutions demand at their highest levels. We bring together professionals from across industries to develop each other, advance together, and drive measurable results for the region's workforce and civic future.

TALENT DEVELOPMENT

CROSS-SECTOR NETWORKING

WORKFORCE READINESS

COHORT PROGRAM OVERVIEW Our flagship cohort-based program is a structured workforce and leadership pipeline designed to move professionals from potential to position. Through leadership development, cross-sector mentorship, and community-rooted learning, every cohort is built to Inform, Connect, and Activate the next generation of Austin's workforce leaders. INFORM

Ground Fellows in Austin's economic landscape, talent retention dynamics, and workforce systems — equipping leaders to understand the forces shaping Central Texas and how to build careers and organizations designed for long-term growth and impact.

CONNECT

ACTIVATE

Bridge diverse professionals across Austin's industries — connecting Fellows with civic, corporate, and nonprofit leaders to expand their professional networks and open doors across sectors of the workforce.

Deploy Fellows into real workforce and community challenges — driving policy impact, systems improvement, and hands-on leadership practice that strengthens both their career trajectory and the institutions they serve.

THE AALI NETWORK

150+

Fellows Developed

2000+

Network Connections

50+

Employer & Org Affiliations

AALI Fellows and Alumni work across some of the country's and state's most notable companies, institutions, and organizations, representing a leadership network embedded at every level of Austin's workforce.

COHORT PROGRAM TESTIMONIALS

I'm so grateful for the programing that provided an overview of this city and the ways I can engage in the community. I'm also grateful for the amazing #leaders I met along this journey that were fellows in this inaugural class. This experience was unparalleled, I’ve not had this level of understanding about any place that I’ve lived in the past! I've learned that the power of #community cannot be underestimated!

I now belong to one of the most life changing initiatives known to Austin. It was an incredible honor and experience as we were introduced and surrounded by highly respected community leaders and officials. Anyone currently living in Austin or moving to Austin wondering where Black people are, looking for a community of highly intellectual black leaders or slight interested in being a part of a much bigger cause.

KAHLILAH GUYAH CLASS OF 2021

ANDREW WARD CLASS OF 2022

CAREER ADVANCEMENT

Since graduating the AALI program, Alumni have

Stayed in a similar role 23.1%

The majority of AALI alumni have advanced professionally since completing the program, stepping into leadership roles, earning promotions, or launching ventures that serve the community.

Been promoted 12.4%

Transitioned into a higher- level role 16.5%

Launched a business, nonprofit, or social enterprise 28.1%

Changed industries or sectors 19.8%

Source: AALI Alumni Impact Survey (2026)

COHORT PROGRAM TESTIMONIALS

As I look back on my journey as a graduate of AALI, my heart overflows with gratitude and a warm sense of nostalgia. The sessions we had were like stepping stones that led me on a path of personal and professional transformation i will cherish forever. AALI has been a compass that guided me towards new opportunities and aspirations I never knew I had.

From passionate policy discussions to hands-on community engagement, we’ve learned to amplify our voices and drive meaningful change. We’ve built friendships that will last a lifetime. As I reflect on this incredible journey, I’m filled with gratitude for the connections made, the lessons learned, and the vision for change we’ve cultivated together.

DR. NICOLE CUMMINGS CLASS OF 2023

DR. CHELA WHITE CLASS OF 2024

LEADERSHIP PIPELINE

Current Leadership Level

In transition between roles 24.3%

AALI alumni now occupy leadership roles at every level of the workforce — from managers to C-suite executives and nonprofit Executive Directors — demonstrating a sustained leadership pipeline into Austin's most influential institutions.

Individual Contributor 14.6%

Manager 14.6%

Director/ Senior Director 9.7% Executive (VP, CSuite, President, ED) 36.9%

Source: AALI Alumni Impact Survey (2026)

COHORT PROGRAM TESTIMONIALS

AALI is one of the single most impactful leadership experiences I've ever had. To be able to have that experience alongside other leaders who are already pouring into the community, their jobs, and their families catalyzes action in ways that other leadership programs I've participated have not. It is clear from my conversations with fellow AALI Cohort members, that this program is giving people a reason to stay in this city, to find their place, and to offer it their very best.

JEFFERY CLEMMONS CLASS OF 2025

MENTORSHIP MULTIPLIER

AALI doesn't just develop leaders, it multiplies them. Nearly 70% of alumni have increased their mentoring activity since completing the program, collectively reaching dozens of emerging professionals across Central Texas. Source: AALI Alumni Impact Survey (2026)

CIVIC & POLICY ENGAGEMENT

Since graduating the AALI program, Alumni have Advanced DEI, equityfocused hiring, or inclusive practices at your organization 24.2%

Served on a board, commission, or advisory group 45.5%

AALI alumni are reshaping systems from the inside, serving on boards and commissions, influencing public policy, and advancing equity within their organizations.

Contributed to developing public policy or organizational policy. 22.7% Run for or been appointed to a public office or civic role 7.6%

Source: AALI Alumni Impact Survey (2026)

Economic Development I lead economic development for the Downtown Austin Alliance and AALI opened doors to nonprofit board service that directly shapes this city.

AALI IN ACTION

Board Service

Alumni contribute to the community through work, leadership or service.

AALI deepened my commitment to the next generation. I now partner with Austin Police and work directly in high schools, guiding youth toward college and career pathways.

AALI connected me to a network I now invest back into through donor support, volunteering, and pro bono consulting for Austin Youth Summit, founded by a fellow AALI alumni.

Quality of Life Commission

AALI gave me the confidence and credibility to step into board service. I now serve on multiple Austin boards, contributing leadership where the community needs it most.

Youth Impact

Community Investment

AALI activated my civic voice. I now serve on the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission and am building Austin Connections for Equality to strengthen collaboration across the city's organizations.

Professional Relationships The relationships I built through AALI turned into real creative partnership. My cohort fellow and I co-founded the Morning Glory Podcast together.

Fellowship Access A relationship built through AALI provided pivotal support during a competitive fellowship application process opening a door that changed my trajectory.

AALI IN ACTION

Systems Thinking AALI expanded my ability to think and act at the systems level, strengthening instructional coherence, aligning leadership practices, and driving more intentional outcomes across the campuses I serve.

Grant Leadership AALI opened doors to serve. I stepped into the co-chair role for Girls Giving Grant alongside an AALI Fellow executive director and it led to even more opportunities to serve across our community.

Civic Leadership AALI connected me to a city commissioner. I now sit on the board alongside them, working to bring more Black voices into the rooms where policy is made.

Community Activation

Alumni contribute to the community through work, leadership or service.

AALI activated a network. Partnering with the late founder Heath Creech, we brought Austin Youth Summit to life — and mobilized AALI alumni and fellows to be a part of something larger than ourselves.

Economic Opportunity AALI strengthened my professional foundation and expanded my reach, creating new freelance opportunities that grew both my impact and my income.

BLACK X CONFERENCE OVERVIEW Black X Conference is our premier leadership development experience that brings together hundreds of like-minded leaders, professionals, and change-makers for a full day of growth, connection, and inspiration. Through dynamic sessions, engaging panels, and powerful keynote conversations, attendees gain practical tools and insights designed to elevate both personal and professional impact. INFORM

CONNECT

ACTIVATE

Black X delivers actionable leadership frameworks, skills-building sessions, and continuing education that professionals bring back to their teams — strengthening performance, retention, and the leadership bench of every organization in the room.

The conference bridges professionals across Austin's industries, creating direct access to civic leaders, corporate decision-makers, and crosssector networks that accelerate both individual careers and organizational impact.

Black X is designed for the individual professional and the team alike — offering a structured learning environment where organizations can invest in collective growth, shared skill-building, and team development all in one room.

BXC | ATTENDEE TESTIMONIALS

May the X stand for Excellence. The Black X Conference was nothing short of phenomenal, an electrifying celebration of Black excellence, knowledge, color, and culture. The day featured curated sessions, dynamic keynotes from thought leaders and immersive experiences. It allowed me the opportunity to network with community changemakers, forge new connections, and feed my passion for purpose, power, and progress.

I am filled with gratitude as I extend my heartfelt thanks to the incredible African American Leadership Institute team for orchestrating a truly powerful and transformative conference. To stand before a room of dynamic leaders, visionary C-Suite executives, trailblazing entrepreneurs, impactful board members, fearless founders, brilliant creatives, and cherished family was nothing short of witnessing Black Excellence in its purest form.

BRITTANY MERIDA

D’JANEA ROBINSON

BLACK X CONFERENCE INSIGHTS

96%

94%

92%

indicated that they would likely recommend the conference to others

indicated that the conference met or exceeded their expectations

rated the session content as highly relevant to their professional growth

Speaker Rating

Professional Development

Leadership Pipeline

90% of attendees rate the quality of speakers and facilitattors as excellent

86% of attendees said they left with tools and strategies they could apply directly to their professional development

of attendees

90%

Source: Black X Conference Attendee Survey (2025)

of attendees

86%

80% of attendees reported feeling more prepared to take on greater leadership responsibility

80%

BXC | SPONSOR TESTIMONIALS

Deloitte is pleased to have sponsored the African American Leadership Institute Black X Conference. The conference provided a platform for professionals from across the region to come together and engage in professional and personal development opportunities designed to refresh, restore, educate, and maximize connections.

I would like to congratulate the African American Leadership Institute on the success of the Black X Conference. Chase / JPMorgan Chase & Co. Austin was well represented at the conference. We are proud to sponsor this event and the AALI Program.

ALISON WALGREN DELOITTE

CHRISTOPHER CORDOVA JP MORGAN CHASE

LUNCH & LEARNS OVERVIEW AALI's Community Lunch & Learn series is free, open to the public, and hosted quarterly across Greater Austin — bringing workforce development and leadership pipeline access directly into the communities that need it most. Facilitated by AALI alumni, each session deploys the skills, frameworks, and tools from the AALI program into the hands of everyday professionals — extending our leadership pipeline far beyond the cohort room. This is the Activate pillar in motion. When we develop a leader, they don't keep it, they deploy it. INFORM

CONNECT

Each Lunch & Learn session delivers a focused, expert-led conversation on a relevant workforce, leadership, or professional development topic — giving community members practical knowledge they can apply immediately in their careers and organizations.

Every session creates a free, accessible space where everyday professionals, emerging leaders, and community members can build relationships with AALI alumni and each other, growing their network without a price tag attached.

ACTIVATE

Attendees leave each session with tools, frameworks, and renewed confidence to take the next step in their leadership journey — turning a single lunch hour into a catalyst for long-term professional growth and community impact.

PARTNER WITH AALI More Than a Sponsor. A Mission Partner.

We invite organizations to join us on the journey of building Austin's next generation of leaders. Every partnership with AALI is an opportunity to invest in workforce development, deepen community trust, and put your organization's values into action.

COHORT GRADUATION SPONSOR

AALI YEAR PRESENTING PARTNER

COHORT SESSION SPONSOR

Invest in the full AALI fellowship experience — sponsoring an entire year and gaining visibility, access, and recognition across every touchpoint of the program from kickoff to graduation.

Sponsor one of AALI's cohort sessions, connecting your organization directly to the leadership development curriculum and the professionals inside the room.

Our Graduation Ceremony bring together fellows, alumni, and the broader Austin community — high-visibility, high-impact events that celebrate the pipeline in real time.

SCHOLARSHIP FUND INVESTOR

LUNCH & LEARN CO-CREATOR

BLACK X CONFERENCE PARTNER

leadership development by investing in AALI's scholarship fund — ensuring that cost is never the reason a qualified leader doesn't make it through the pipeline.

Partner with AALI to co-design and cofacilitate a free community Lunch & Learn session — bringing your organization's expertise directly into Austin's neighborhoods while investing in accessible workforce development where it counts.

Align your brand with Austin's premier Black leadership and professional development conference — reaching professionals, executives, and decision-makers across every sector of the city.

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PARTNER BENEFITS

BRAND EXPOSURE From Cohort sessions, Lunch & Learns to the Black X Conference, AALI puts your brand in front of Austin's most engaged and growing network of professionals, executives, civic leaders, and decision-makers across digital, print, and in-person touchpoints throughout the year.

When Austin's next generation of leaders looks back at who helped build the pipeline, your organization's name should be in that story.

NETWORK ACCESS & RELATIONSHIP CAPITAL

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

AALI's alumni and fellow network spans every sector of Austin's economy: corporate, nonprofit, government, healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship. A partnership with AALI is a direct connection to a strong, growing, and highly engaged professional network.

Organizations that invest in AALI are investing in the talent that will lead Austin's institutions, fill critical workforce gaps, and drive the regional economy forward. This is long-term workforce infrastructure.

PARTNER BENEFITS

TALENT VISIBILITY AALI partners gain visibility with a curated pool of skilled, leadershipready professionals actively advancing their careers, creating natural pathways for recruitment, board placement, and organizational goals.

The Return on Your Investment Goes Beyond the Bottom Line.

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP & CO-CREATION

MEASURABLE COMMUNITY IMPACT

AALI partners don't sit on the sidelines, they help shape the conversation. Through co-facilitated engagements, your organization's expertise becomes part of the curriculum that builds Austin's leadership pipeline.

Every dollar invested in AALI generates a traceable return, from the number of leaders developed and promoted, to the communities reached through our free programming. Partners receive impact reporting that connects their investment to real outcomes.