ELC Contact Magazine 2025

CONTACT THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

2025 EDITION

ON THE COVER:

The ELC Board Officers (left to right) Oral Muir, Secretary, Shaundra Clay, Treasurer, Michael Hyter, President and CEO, Shelley Stewart Jr. Board Chair, Gena Ashe, Vice Chair.

The Corporate Board Navigator Session at the 2025 Summer Member Meeting with The ELC Members (pictured left to right) Keith Dorsey, Bradlee Benn, Erika Peterman, and Craig Robinson.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS The ELC Staff

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Marketing & Communications

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Executive Summary

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New Team Member Highlight

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Development & Impact

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Finance, IT, & Risk

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People & Culture

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Members On The Move

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The Institute for Leadership & Development Member Services

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CONTACT

2025 THE ELC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

THE ELC STAFF

The Official Publication of The Executive Leadership Council

OFFICERS

2025 EDITION

Chair Bottom Line Advisory

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

Shelley Stewart Jr.

elcinfo.com/contact-magazine

Gena L. Ashe

Secretary Hilton

Angelina H. Gordon Senior Director of Communications

Shaundra Clay

Vice Chair Anterix

EDITOR IN CHIEF Angelina H. Gordon

Oral Muir

Treasurer Integra LifeSciences

DIREC TORS Danielle M. Brown

Javara Perrilliat

Edward L. Dandridge

Irene Quarshie

Whirlpool

EDITOR Sonia V. Diaz

Target

AIG

CONTRIBUTORS Diana Adkins Angelina H. Gordon Barbara Diggs-Brown Courtney Hughes Mike Utaegbulam

Accenture

Curtis Howse Synchrony

Laura Van Oudenaren

Controller

Paul Davis

David Digby

Cynt Marshall

Angelinia Reed

Immediate Past Chair Nationwide (Former)

Director of Internal Audit & Risk Management

President & CEO The Executive Leadership Council

Chief Development and Impact Officer

Hannibal L. Brumskine II

Erica Jordan

Chief Financial Officer

Nicole Monson

Chief Legal & Human Resources Officer

Audrey Taylor

Chief Academy Officer

VP of Member Services

Angela Leftwich Senior Executive Assistant to the President

Director of Information Technology

Leah N. Wade

Earl Granger, III

President & CEO

Shekhar Jakhadi

Accounting Manager Accounting Manager

Lorna Walters

Accounts Receivable Specialist

Samson Olugbade IT Support Manager

Juanita Lee

Office & Special Projects Manager

DEVELOPMENT & IMPACT

THE ELC EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM Michael C. Hyter

Senior Instructional Designer

Merkena Cooper

Nationwide

Michael C. Hyter

Senior Program Manager of Learning & Development

Stewart Hughes

Director of Financial Planning & Analysis

Gale V. King

The ELC exists to elevate leadership excellence in business, develop future-ready leaders, and amplify inclusive leadership that drives competitive advantage and improves tangible business outcomes.

Justina Victor

Telisa Toliver

E X- OFFICIO DIREC TORS

The ELC is a non-partisan 501(c)(3) organization that empowers global C-suite executives to positively impact business and society. It is a powerful catalyst for measurable business transformation, inclusive leadership, and long-term value creation. The ELC is a global community of over 800 CEOs, board directors, entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and senior executives, representing 570+ Fortune 1000 and Global 500 companies across industries.

Dr. Robert Harris

Senior Director of Corporate Learning Solutions

FINANCE & IT

Marshalling Resources

ABOUT THE ELC

Amanda Rey

Hershey Trust Company

Retired from Chevron

Janice InnisThompson

Courtney Hughes

THE INSTITUTE FOR LEADERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT

Harold Singleton III

BD

Director of Marketing Marketing Manager

Senior Research Manager

Marty Rodgers

Denise Russell Fleming

DESIGNER Black Digital

QXO

Diana Adkins

Senior Director of Philanthropy

Mayra Espinoza

Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives

Krysta Omeir

Senior Program Manager of Philanthropy

Trisha Saint-Aude Senior Program Manager

HR, LEGAL & BOARD Jennifer Vasquez Director of Board Operations & Governance

Lauren Ashley Coe HR Business Partner

MEMBER SERVICES Khalilah Branch

Senior Program Manager of Member Engagement

Its purpose is to drive economic growth and competitive advantage by establishing and advancing business leadership best practices, developing future-ready leaders, and amplifying case studies and data that demonstrate the tangible value of inclusive leadership.

Kayla Waysome

Senior Program Manager of Member Engagement

Samad Sardri

Data & Information Specialist for MyELC

Damon Williams

Senior Project Specialist for Member Initiatives

Ebony Harris

Member Engagement Specialist T H E

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The ELC Board Chair Shelley Stewart, Jr. at the 2025 Summer Member Meeting.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Scaling Impact, Sustaining Growth

The Executive Leadership Council’s four-year strategic initiative outlines a bold transformation to scale impact and ensure long-term sustainability by refocusing operations on four key areas: fundraising, member engagement, executive development, and technology.

The plan targets growth of the endowment and annual fund to diversify revenue, making cash flow more predictable and budgeting more reliable. Activating member communities through tailored programming and inclusive events is a crucial component to success of the plan while a program for leaders from Director to CEO levels will be developed to strengthen executive capacity across all levels.

It also proposes continuously evolving the organization’s technology infrastructure to enhance global reach and operational efficiency. This four-year roadmap seeks to build financial resilience, deepen community impact and position The ELC for scalable, mission-driven growth.

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Initiatives for The ELC 40th Year

The ELC is celebrating its 40th Anniversary in 2026 and its Annual Operating Plan will focus on enhancing its program portfolio.

Additionally, The Institute for Leadership and Development programs will be revamped to attract new sponsors and participants while reducing expenses and leveraging in-kind support to host programs. Traditionally, The ELC hosted two member meetings annually. Beginning March 2026, members will meet once annually, while regional member convenings will continue when scheduled throughout the year. In 2026, The ELC will also continue to elevate its brand, expand its reach, and increase its presence with existing and new audiences.

Elevating the Brand

The ELC President & CEO, Michael C. Hyter at The Washington Post’s The ‘Ship’ Series with Suzi Watford, Chief Strategy Officer, The Washington Post.

The ELC was proud to sponsor The Washington Post’s The ‘Ship’ series, featuring Mike Hyter, in The New CEO Playbook segment alongside Suzi Watford, The Washington Post chief strategic officer. Hyter shared key insights from The ELC’s second annual Voice of the Member Survey, representing perspectives from more than 200 C-Suite and senior executives on the evolving leadership landscape. As a significant component of the communications strategic plan, the partnership was designed to elevate awareness of The ELC and offered a strategic opportunity to amplify the thought leadership emerging from the member community.

Member Value Proposition

The ELC Members Telisa Toliver, Racquel Oden, Curtis Howse, and Janice Dupre during the 2025 Summer Member Meeting.

The ELC updated its Member Value Proposition, articulating the unique benefits and strategic value it delivers in today’s challenging business landscape. The framework emphasizes that The ELC’s role is more than a network—it is a vital community providing leadership support, trusted spaces for meaningful dialogue, and professional resources for executives at all career stages. The value proposition reinforces the organization’s commitment to advancing executive talent, corporate partnerships, and delivering lasting value to members and communities.

Prioritizing Advocacy

The 2025 advocacy goals focused on three key areas: economic growth and fundamental fairness, workforce development, and support for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Through its community grants programs, The ELC supported nonprofits that directly engage community members in business and individual economic growth opportunities. The organization also continues its commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), providing grants, scholarships, and resources to advance higher education and preparation for the future of work. These initiatives collectively aim to promote economic advancement, educational access, and equitable opportunities for The ELC members and the broader community.

The ELC Scholar at the 2025 Honors Symposium.

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Chairman, President and CEO of Lowe’s Companies, Inc. Marvin R. Ellison accepts the 2025 Corporate Award.

DEVELOPMENT & IMPACT

Driving growth and ensuring the resources, relationships, and reach needed to expand The ELC’s mission.

Powering Forward with Momentum

In 2025, The ELC deepened its commitment to leadership development and long-term impact.

The organization introduced three new giving pathways—the Annual Fund, the Endowment, and student scholarships—allowing supporters to contribute in ways that meet program needs while building lasting financial resilience for future generations.

From early-career to board-ready executives, offerings include intimate gatherings and national platforms, immersive leadership development weeks and curated C-suite summits, hands-on talent accelerators and custom-designed programs that meet companies where they are.

Each of these touchpoints reflects a larger vision: to strengthen the leadership pipeline, elevate excellence in every corridor of corporate life, and create enduring change across industries.

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Relentless, Rising, Resilient: Fueling The ELC Community and Mission ANNUAL RECOGNITION GALA The 2025 Recognition Gala drew more than 2,500 leaders to celebrate bold leadership and raised over $11.7 million for programs, initiatives, and scholarships that advance the next generation of high-performing talent.

Attendees contributed more than $100,000 during the event, underscoring their commitment to developing future leaders.

The late and former The ELC President & CEO, Ronald C. Parker being recognized and honored posthumously with the 2025 Alvaro L. Martins Award.

This year’s honorees, Ronald C. Parker (posthumously, Alvaro L. Martins Heritage Award), Marva Smalls (Achievement Award), and Lowe’s, accepted by Marvin Ellison (Corporate Award), represent the pursuit of inclusive excellence that defines The ELC community.

Throughout Gala Week, leaders from across sectors came together to invest in emerging talent and reaffirm the role of business in driving positive change.

As The ELC approaches its 40th anniversary, companies are invited to mark the milestone by becoming a Chairman’s Visionary Sponsor of the 40th Anniversary Recognition Gala.

This new $1 million sponsorship level offers exceptional visibility across the Gala and The ELC’s signature programs and provides a unique opportunity to support lasting impact that will shape the next era of corporate leadership.

Marva Smalls, Senior Strategic Advisor to the Office of the CEO, Paramount Global accepts the 2025 Achievement Award.

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026, THE TEAM WILL FOCUS ON THREE PRIORITIES: • Execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy shaped by data and insights to continue growing endowment support • Use the 40th anniversary as a rallying point to engage current members, reconnect with past supporters, and reach new audiences • Launch the Discipline of Measured Impact, a focused effort to demonstrate and communicate the value of philanthropic investment With continued support from individuals, corporations, and foundations, The ELC aims to amplify its impact for the leaders it serves.

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Notable R&B group En Vogue performs at The ELC Recognition Gala Networking Reception.

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The ELC Philanthropy

The ELC is committed to cultivating a strong pipeline of inclusive, futureready talent at every level, from emerging scholars to senior corporate leaders. In 2025, The ELC celebrated the 30th anniversary of its scholarship program. For three decades, The ELC has supported more than 1,000 students and awarded over $20 million in scholarships, with half of that impact achieved in just the past five years.

The 2025 ELC Scholars

This year The ELC awarded $2 million to 102 undergraduate and graduate scholars from educational institutions across the United States. This year’s scholars represent a diverse number of fields with 80% pursuing degrees in STEM, business, health, or the arts. 70% of scholars attend Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCUs) and prominent universities from across the nation. The ELC scholars are given internship opportunities through the companies that help support The ELC Scholarship Program and attend the Honors Symposium, a four-day Scholars Symposium where they participate in leadership development workshops, career fairs, and networking opportunities.

The ELC Scholars at the 2025 Honors Symposium.

Ronald C. Parker Legacy Scholarship

Mrs. Paula Parker and Mrs. Lauren Parker-Santee congratulate the 2025 Ronald C. Parker scholarship recipients.

As part of The ELC’s Signature Scholarship Program, a new legacy scholarship has been established in honor of the late Ronald C. Parker, former The ELC President & CEO. This scholarship celebrates Parker’s lasting contributions to business leadership and his unwavering dedication to developing future generations of executives. The Ronald C. Parker Scholarship supports two students pursuing degrees in management or business, who exemplify Parker’s core values – integrity, humility, inclusiveness– and a commitment to building strong teams and uplifting others. Scholarship recipients receive a two-year financial award in the amount of $10,000 each year to assist with educational expenses, Including attendance at The ELC’s Honors Symposium both years. The complete award is valued at $35,000 per scholar. This tribute joins the Alvaro L. Martins and Ann Fudge Scholarships in honoring the vision and legacy of The ELC’s most influential leaders.

Community Impact Grants

The ELC extended its philanthropic reach through strategic community partnerships and its Community Impact Grants. At the 2025 Winter Member Meeting, The ELC made a $50,000 donation to the National Juneteenth Museum in Fort Worth, Texas to help support the preservation of African American history. And at the 2025 Summer Member Meeting, The ELC made a $25,000 contribution to Coded By, a Philadelphia-based organization that aims to prepare young people in Philadelphia to succeed as tech leaders and innovators in the world’s most impactful companies. These investments reflect The ELC’s commitment to empowering communities.

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The ELC provides a $25,000.00 donation to Coded By: as our Community Impact Grant recipient.

LEADERSHIP IN ACTION Powered by Scholars, Members, and Partners Leadership in Action is the heartbeat of The ELC mission—driven by scholars who lead with confidence, members who open doors, and partners who invest in growth. Together, they activate a full pipeline of opportunity, turning preparation into access and potential into impact.

Featured Conversations

Ann Fudge & Earl Granger III

Oral Muir & Curtis Howse

THE ELC MEMBER + LEGACY LEADERSHIP CONVERSATION

SCHOLAR ALUM + SPONSOR CONVERSATION

In conversation with Earl Granger, Ann Fudge reflects on her career, becoming the first woman to chair The ELC, and the scholarship established in her name to advance future leaders.

The ELC Board members, Oral Muir (1999 The ELC Scholar) and Curtis Howse discuss how mentorship and early career support influenced their leadership journeys and helped them navigate the business world with confidence.

Mentor Moments 2026: Connecting Members and Scholars

In 2026, Leadership in Action will become Mentor Moments, a new effort linking The ELC members with ELC Scholars for focused guidance and connection.

Scholars build confidence and leadership, while members open doors and accelerate their growth.

Corporate partners strengthen this pipeline through scholarships, experiential learning, executive access, and career pathways.

This full talent pipeline ensures scholars not only gain access, but also receive the mentorship, networks, and support that turn opportunity into impact.

Join Us in Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders

access, and real-world opportunities, partners help future ready business leaders build the skills, networks, and confidence to thrive in business.

HOW PARTNERS SUPPORT THE PIPELINE • Fund undergraduate and graduate scholarships • Provide experiential learning and exposure to business environments • Offer mentorship, sponsorship, and access to executives • Engage scholars through internships and early career pathways For any inquiries on The Executive Leadership Council’s Scholarship Program, reach out to The ELC Philanthropy Team at philanthropy@elcinfo.com.

The ELC members and Corporate partners play a critical role in preparing emerging talent to lead. Through scholarship funding, experiential learning, executive T H E

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LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP 30 YEARS INVESTING IN FUTURE-READY BUSINESS LEADERS For 30 years, The ELC Scholarship Program has identified and supported emerging leaders who show strong academic performance, leadership experience, and a commitment to making a positive impact on campus and in their communities. This investment goes beyond financial support. It provides access to corporate environments, executive mentorship, and real-world leadership experiences that prepare scholars to thrive in business and lead with purpose.

Since 1995, that commitment has opened doors for more than 1,000 scholars, awarded more than $20 million in scholarships, and engaged 50+ corporations who believe in investing in the future of leadership. Today, the legacy continues developing the next generation of future-ready business leaders equipped with the skills, networks, and confidence to lead at the highest levels.

HOW THE ELC SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM EVOLVED

1995

First Annual National Business Commentary Essay Contest

2000s Legacy scholarships created (Alvaro L. Martins and Ann Fudge scholarships)

2010s

Mentorship and leadership development opportunities expanded

2020s

National interest in named corporate awards; exponential program growth

HOW THE ELC DEVELOPS LEADERS The ELC Scholarship Program delivers leadership experience that prepares scholars to succeed in business and lead with confidence.

Through curated corporate learning, hands-on skill development, and meaningful executive engagement, scholars gain the preparation and access that accelerate their careers.

“ AS A RESULT OF ATTENDING THE HONORS SYMPOSIUM, I AM MORE MOTIVATED AND CONFIDENT THAT I CAN SUCCESSFULLY MAKE TO THE EXECUTIVE RANKS IN MY FIELD. I ALSO BELIEVE THAT THE ELC WILL PROVIDE ME WITH THE SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE I NEED AS I PROGRESS THROUGH MY CAREER.” –Spencer Redmond, Alvaro L. Martins Scholar

The ELC Scholars pictured at The 2025 Honors Symposium.

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THE ELC LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MODEL EXPOSURE

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EXPERIENCE

Scholars learn directly from senior executives and business leaders who share real insights into career paths, decisionmaking, and leadership.

This exposure broadens perspective and builds confidence in navigating corporate environments.

Through hands-on leadership development, scholars apply what they learn in workshops, case challenges, and company immersions—strengthening communication, problemsolving, and strategic thinking skills.

Learn from leaders

Learn by doing

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EXECUTIVE ACCESS Scholars form meaningful connections with executives who provide guidance, mentorship, and sponsorship.

Leaders don’t just speak to scholars – they open doors.

Build relationships that accelerate careers

THE RESULT Scholars leave prepared, confident, and connected.

They understand how to navigate corporate environments, articulate their value, and build relationships that fuel long-term career growth.

Scholars gain the network and sponsorship that move careers forward.

The ELC Scholar during the 2025 Honors Symposium Pinning Ceremony.

COLLEGE MAP: SCHOLARS BETWEEN 2021-2025

ACCELERATION OVER THE LAST FIVE YEARS During the last five years, the scholarship program has expanded its reach, deepened leadership development experiences, and strengthened corporate partnerships.

What began as financial support has grown into a leadership accelerator that connects scholars to the business world through real opportunities and meaningful sponsorship.

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INSTITUTIONS REPRESENTED

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The ELC Member Ken Wilcox and Leadership Development Week host Sherhara Burrell.

THE INSTITUTE FOR LEADERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT Equipping leaders at every stage of their journey by offering transformative learning experiences that are grounded in real-world leadership examples.

Developing Leaders Who Shape the Future

In 2025, The ELC delivered development programs that equipped leaders to navigate complexity with clarity, confidence, and courage. These experiences met a need for professionals advancing inclusive leadership in environments where that commitment is often challenged. This year, The Institute expanded its impact with digital completion credentials and deeper engagement from The ELC members, whose expertise and mentorship strengthened every program. Their involvement, combined with the ambition of participants, drove meaningful results: richer dialogue, broader corporate participation, and measurable professional growth. The year affirmed a core truth of The ELC learning model: when leaders teach leaders, transformation follows.

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The Power of Women at Work and Men in Leadership

The Power of Women at Work (POWW) and Men in Leadership (MiL) remained two of the Institute’s most relevant and energizing virtual leadership conferences.

More than 240 professionals from 64 companies joined these sessions to tackle business acumen, influence, communication, and change leadership with guidance from The ELC members and other distinguished experts.

POWW featured leaders including Dr. Heather Melville, OBE, Charisse Hughes, Cynt Marshall, Danielle M. Brown, Nancy Armand, Syreeta Brown, Pamela Hutchinson, Janice Innis-Thompson, and Stacey Abrams. MiL participants learned from Craig Cuffie, Earl Newsome, Edward Dandrige, Randal Pinkett, Gerald Charles Jr., Irv Ashford, Keith Wyche, Kimble Lewis, Sena Kwawu, Tom Shropshire, and Shelley Stewart, Jr.

Leadership Development Week (LDW) 2025

In June, more than 100 professionals from 21 companies convened in Chicago for Leadership Development Week, a four-day immersion experience rooted in research, experiential learning, and direct facilitation from The ELC members. Six courses— Bright Futures, Navigating the Corporate Landscape, Strategic Pathways for Women, Leading Innovation, Strengthening the Pipeline 1, and Strengthening the Pipeline 2—provided actionable frameworks for career acceleration and leadership readiness.

Their insights helped participants strengthen leadership skills and expand their networks. Special thanks to Charles Schwab for supporting these programs.

The ELC Member Jackie Parker leading the 2025 Leadership Development Week session.

2025 Leadership Development Week Attendees.

Faculty included Mel Parker, Jackie Parker, AJ Jones II, Donna Wilson, Ken Wilcox, Viveca FairbanksHenderson, and International Coach Federation (ICF) certified instructors. Participants developed stronger leadership capabilities through coursework, peer collaboration, and shared experiences that fostered authenticity, belonging, and excellence.

PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK:

PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK:

“A rewarding day. Honored to be part of it.”

“A complete game changer for my career.”

“An inspiring event filled with practical wisdom.”

“ Worth its weight in gold. I gained skills and meaningful connections.”

“ Another amazing experience. Thank you for refilling my cup.”

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“ The small class size created a safe space for honest dialogue.”

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C-Suite Academy 2025

In July, 20 senior executives joined the C-Suite Academy, presented with lead sponsor Accenture.

Designed and delivered by senior leaders, this two-day program addressed the realities of modern executive leadership, from enterprise transformation and stakeholder alignment to compensation strategy and board preparedness.

Mid-Level Managers’ Symposium (MLMS) 2025

In October, more than 1,200 mid-level and senior professionals participated in the Mid-Level Managers’ Symposium, a hybrid, two-day experience featuring leaders such as Arian Simone, Will Packer, Dr. Randal Pinkett, Laysha Ward, and Cliff Worley, among others.

Participants explored topics ranging from resilience and data-driven decision making to purpose-based leadership.

With more than 18 breakout sessions, the symposium helped leaders return to their roles ready to deliver stronger results, supported by insights from The ELC members and partners. Thank you to the 2025 Corporate Partners for helping create a culture of courageous learning.

The ELC members Michael C. Hyter, Calvin Butler, Chloe Barzey, and Marty Rodgers and C-Suite Academy attendees.

PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK:

“ The insights were transformative and shifted how I lead.”

“The authenticity of the speakers was inspiring.” “ Every session offered valuable, practical guidance. I only wish I could have attended more.”

The ELC members and program attendees at C-Suite Academy.

Featured facilitators included Calvin Butler (Exelon), Chloe Barzey (Accenture), Marty Rodgers (Accenture), Minda Harts, Orlando Ashford, Yolanda Lyle (Pfizer), Melonie Parker (Google), Donna Wilson (Strategic Intersections), and John Nixon (Duane Morris).

Cliff Worley addresses Mid-Level Managers’ Symposium attendees on the use of AI.

Participants left with sharper executive judgment, stronger networks, and clearer strategies for influence and board-level readiness.

PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK:

“ A powerful, thoughtful experience with an exceptional cohort.” “ The access and community offered here are rare at this level.”

Mid-Level Managers’ Symposium attendees engaged during breakout sessions.

“ This program reframed how I think about sponsorship and strategic visibility.”

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The ELC Members CEO Michael Hyter, Arlene Isaacs-Lowe, Nancy Armand, Keith Levy and speakers at the Corporate Board Navigator panel discussion, Google Office, London.

MEMBER SERVICES

Cultivating, connecting, and championing the leadership of The ELC’s distinguished executive community.

In 2025, The ELC strengthened its member community through high-impact convenings, leadership dialogue, and programs that expanded influence in the corporate, civic, and governance arenas. Across meetings, receptions, and board-readiness initiatives, members engaged in content designed to sharpen leadership capacity, activate networks, and advance The Council’s mission. The year demonstrated the power of convening senior executives with a shared purpose: when members connect, collaborate, and lead together, meaningful progress follows.

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Member Convenings

In 2025, The ELC brought together senior executives for strategic meetings and discussions, reinforcing The ELC’s commitment to fostering leadership, equity, and corporate impact.

The ELC Member Telisa Toliver, Erika Peterman, and Hilda Pinnix-Ragland at the Black History Month London Convening.

Winter Meeting in Washington, DC

Nearly 300 members explored topics including artificial intelligence, economic resilience, and the business implications of advocacy. The Council honored the late Ronald C. Parker with a $50,000 gift to the National Juneteenth Museum, and members contributed more than $115,000 to philanthropic efforts.

Summer Meeting in Philadelphia, PA

The meeting welcomed the 10th Cohort of the Corporate Board Navigator program, sponsored

by Deloitte, and featured a wellness session with Dr. Ian Smith, a Changemakers Panel on authentic leadership and digital fluency, and a fireside chat with NAACP Legal Defense Fund President Janai Nelson on advancing equity through corporate leadership.

Sponsored by Amazon and Ecolab, the meeting closed with the State of the Council address and the announcement of the $70,000 Ronald C. Parker Scholarship for business and management students.

The ELC Member John Nixon opens the panel with fellow The ELC Members Telisa Toliver and Racquel Oden.

Martha’s Vineyard Member Reception

The ELC Members Dwayne Allen and Forest Harper at the Atlanta Member Meet-up.

The annual gathering drew 115 members and guests. A panel moderated by member Keith Pigues featured member Stephanie Childs and guest Marc Farrell, offering insights on brand leadership, corporate influence, and entrepreneurial strategy.

Joint Networking Reception at CBCF ALC

In partnership with The Links, Incorporated and the Grand Boulé of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, The ELC welcomed more than 170 guests during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference.

Remarks highlighted the importance of collective action and visibility in advancing executive leadership.

Panel Discussion moderated by member Keith Pigues featuring member Stephanie Childs and guest Marc Farrell at The ELC Martha’s Vineyard Reception.

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Member Closing Brunch— Gala Week More than 90 members attended the Closing Brunch, sponsored by UnitedHealth Group. The event has become a hallmark of Gala Week, offering space for connection, reflection, and shared commitment to The ELC’s mission.

CBN’s work was made possible through significant support from Deloitte and Diligent. Deloitte renewed its multi-year commitment to developing board-ready leaders, and Diligent joined as a first-year sponsor with a focus on improving governance and technology insights for The ELC members.

Board Directors’ Summit

Corporate Board Navigator

In 2025, the Corporate Board Navigator program deepened its impact by expanding education, access, and strategic guidance for members pursuing board opportunities. The program delivered six virtual sessions and two in-person convenings focused on board governance, ethics, financial oversight, stakeholder engagement, and corporate responsibility.

The year concluded with the Board Directors’ Summit in Arlington, Virginia, where 115 participants explored governance in an era of rapid change.

Strategic partners—including Russell Reynolds, Rich Talent Group, Spencer Stuart, Goldman Sachs, and Encore Leadership Advisors—provided one-on-one informational interviews, giving members direct access to organizations actively seeking diverse board talent.

New Membership Intake Summary

In 2025, the Membership Committee refined the Class of 2026 intake criteria to focus on senior executives and corporate board directors from Fortune 1000, Global 500, and large-scale professional services firms, with priority given to candidates within two levels of the enterprise CEO. The refined criteria resulted in 91 nominations—a 36 percent decrease from the prior year—and a more targeted, high-caliber pool.

The ELC President & CEO, Michael C. Hyter gives opening remarks at the Corporate Board Navigator program during the 2025 Gala Week.

In response to member feedback, The ELC expanded its partnership with The Ellis-Kirk Group to deliver handson sessions in board bio refinement and interview preparation. These additions strengthened the program’s focus on practical readiness and board-level presence.

At the Summer Member Meeting, the 10th Cohort began its journey with an orientation on the current board landscape and candid conversations with members working at major search firms. Alumni reinforced the importance of leveraging The ELC network, noting that member connections have helped many secure their first board seat—an endorsement of The Council’s unique value.

Following a rigorous selection process, 45 candidates were approved for membership: 2 corporate board directors and 43 senior executives, 64 percent of whom represent Fortune 500 and Global 500 companies.

This outcome reflects the Committee’s focus on strengthening representation among top-performing global enterprises and ensuring alignment with The Council’s mission and standards.

The nomination period for the Class of 2026 ran from March through mid-September. New members will be formally inducted at the 2026 Member Meeting.

Members can view the incoming class and nomination guidelines on the MyELC platform.

Demographics of The ELC Member Class of 2026.

During Gala Week, CBN hosted a full-day forum covering shareholder activism, board portfolio building, board leadership during uncertainty, and board-related liability. Dive Search led a session on risk and financial protection for directors.

PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK:

“Solid, pragmatic advice for current and aspiring directors.”

“Highly engaging and time well spent.”

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LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ELC MEMBERSHIP CRITERIA L E A D E R S H I P

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The ELC President & CEO Michael C. Hyter as a featured guest for The Washington Post’s ‘The Ship’ Series with Suzi Watford, Chief Strategy Officer, The Washington Post.

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Sharpening The ELC’s identity and amplifying its influence across industries and audiences.

Leading with Clarity in a Year of Change

In 2025, The ELC’s Marketing and Communications team was instrumental in shaping how the organization engaged with members, partners, and the broader business community.

Amid a shifting climate, MarComm focused on a single mandate: communicate with purpose. The team listened to member needs, adapted to shifting market dynamics, and amplified The ELC’s voice as the trusted authority on inclusive, forward-thinking leadership.

This year reinforced a key truth: communication is more than a support function, it is a central driver of The ELC’s mission. Employing a myriad of skills, talents, and techniques, the team amplified and streamlined the organization’s internal and external messaging through digital platforms, weekly news digest, app, media relations, speaking engagements, member meetings, and the recognition Gala.

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Strategic Visibility and Voice

KEY FINDINGS INCLUDED:

In 2025, the Marketing & Communications team reinforced The ELC’s presence as a trusted authority in inclusive leadership—shaping how the organization is seen, heard, and understood across industries. To do this, the team focused on forming strategic alliances and amplifying platforms where The ELC’s voice already holds weight.

The team sharpened The ELC’s value proposition, ensuring that every message—from digital campaigns to executive remarks—aligned with the mission and reflected the lived experience of senior leaders. These efforts were supported by a strengthened digital infrastructure, making it easier for members and partners to connect with The ELC’s work.

This deliberate approach paid dividends: The ELC LinkedIn page remains the second-most-followed page in its category on the platform, a signal of both trust and influence. As The ELC approaches its 40th anniversary, Marketing & Communications continues to lead with clarity and purpose, ensuring the organization’s story not only resonates, but drives progress.

• 85% of executives named artificial intelligence as a top strategic priority, outranking even economic uncertainty.

• Leadership expectations are shifting: agility, digital fluency, and strategic thinking now outrank traditional strengths like people management.

• There is a divide on social impact commitments: 36% of large companies plan to dial back, while 33% of smaller firms plan to increase their efforts.

CEO Hyter’s remarks emphasized that inclusive leadership remains essential for organizations that want to build for the future. He called out the gap in the leadership pipeline, highlighted the necessity of intentional mentorship, and championed a vision of leadership that is both technologically grounded and deeply human.

The ELC President & CEO, Michael C. Hyter discusses the results from the Voice of The ELC Member Survey.

A Sharpened Value Proposition

In 2025, MarComm refined The ELC’s brand in a way that cut through ambiguity. Our updated Value Proposition does not reinvent The ELC—it clarifies why the organization exists, and what makes it indispensable to senior executives globally.

The ELC Members Craig Cuffie and Rosilyn Houston convening in London during Black History Month at Bloomberg HQ for a powerful dialogue on global business dynamics with leading financial journalists.

The Washington Post’s The Ship

In April, The ELC joined The Washington Post’s first ‘The Ship’ series, placing President & CEO Mike Hyter at the center of a national conversation on evolving corporate leadership. His segment, “The New CEO Playbook,” drew on data from the 2025 Voice of the Member survey to connect member insights to broader business trends.

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At our core: The ELC is not just a network. This organization offers a trusted space for authentic leadership, hard conversations, and peer learning.

We provide the insights, access, and community that executives need—not only to navigate today’s world, but to shape tomorrow’s. That promise now sits at the heart of all communications: events, partnerships, and thought leadership.

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The ELC Members and staff (pictured left to right) Telisa Toliver, Hilda Pinnix-Ragland, Nancy Armand, Erica Jordan, Arlene Isaacs-Lowe, CEO Michael Hyter, Diane Ashley, Shaundra Clay, Rosilyn Houston, Angelina H. Gordon, and Erika Peterman during the London Black History Month Convening

The ELC President & CEO Michael C. Hyter thoughtleadership blog “Future-Proof” Your Leadership.”

The ELC featured in a Forbes article on the impacts of AI in the workplace as a result of The Voice of The ELC Member Survey.

Fast Company recognized The ELC’s efforts in an article detailing our successful work to build a pipeline of inclusive leadership.

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NEW TEAM MEMBER HIGHLIGHT The ELC Welcomes New Team Members

NICOLE S. MONSON — CHIEF LEGAL & HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER Nicole Monson oversees human resources, board governance, and legal affairs at The ELC, providing strategic counsel and fostering professional growth. She brings over 20 years of experience in employment law, ethics, compliance, and human capital strategy, most recently as SVP, Equity and Engagement at The Estée Lauder Companies. Nicole has held senior roles at Ingersoll Rand, Goldman Sachs, and served as a federal law clerk. She holds a BA in Economics from Spelman College and a JD from Howard University School of Law and is nationally recognized for her leadership and impact.

DIANA ADKINS — DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Diana Adkins leads The ELC’s marketing strategy, raising visibility for the organization and its professional development programs. She has more than 15 years of experience in missiondriven marketing, including leadership roles at WorldatWork, SHRM, Carfax, and ATD. Diana holds a BS in Marketing from the University of Maryland, College Park.

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Panel at The ELC’s World in Motion breakfast at Bloomberg HQ in London, exploring AI’s dual promise and uncertainty.

FINANCE, IT, & RISK

Safeguarding The ELC’s financial health, strengthening operational resilience, and building governance infrastructure to support growth, innovation, and long-term stability.

The ELC’s Finance Department oversees all financial operations, strategic planning, and reporting while partnering with business units to drive key organizational initiatives. In addition to dayto-day management, the team manages capital, budgeting, forecasting, regulatory compliance, financial planning and analysis, technology strategy, and risk oversight, ensuring resources are aligned to advance The ELC’s mission.

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FY25 Financial Performance

Finance implemented Workday/Adaptive software to streamline planning, improve reporting, and link departmental goals to enterprise strategy. The FY26 budget was presented to the Finance Committee on November 6 and and was approved by the Board in December.

DESPITE THESE PRESSURES, THE FINANCE TEAM STRENGTHENED ORGANIZATIONAL RESILIENCE BY:

Enterprise Risk Management & Internal Audit

FY25 revenue is projected to decline 7.5% versus FY24, reflecting challenges across key programs amid geopolitical and economic uncertainty. Expenses are expected to remain nearly flat, with a modest 1.25% increase, resulting in a forecasted deficit of $2.1M.

• Implementing rigorous cash management and revenue collection processes

FY25 marked a major step forward in risk management.

The Finance team launched The ELC’s first Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework, drawing on COSO and ISO 31000 standards, to standardize risk identification, assessment, and monitoring across the organization.

• Maintaining cost discipline and optimizing operations • Building a stronger balance sheet to support strategic priorities The 2024 audit, completed with Mitchell Titus, resulted in a clean opinion. The department also finalized the IRS Form 990 and all state and regulatory filings on time.

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• Formation of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) Risk Committee, enabling cross-functional collaboration and early risk awareness • Integration of risk insights into Board and Audit Committee reporting • Active mitigation of two top enterprise risks: clarity of strategic vision and integration of planning and budgeting This work has created a foundation for risk-informed decision-making, linking strategy, operations, and resources more effectively. Culture has shifted as leaders actively engage in risk discussions, turning risk management into a shared practice rather than a compliance exercise.

The ELC Members (pictured left to right) Tamara Asamoah, Dalila Wilson Scott, Cat Tucker and Irvin Bishop during the 2025 Summer Member Meeting in Philadelphia, PA.

Looking ahead, The ELC is introducing its first Internal Audit function to provide independent assurance, strengthen controls, and reinforce accountability.

These initiatives together form a cohesive governance ecosystem, positioning The ELC for growth, innovation, and long-term stability.

FY26 Annual Operating Plan THE FY26 BUDGET, IN COLLABORATION WITH ALL DEPARTMENTS, IS IN FINAL REVIEW AND INCORPORATES ENTERPRISE-WIDE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES. KEY GOALS INCLUDE:

By the Numbers: ERM Year One

• Grow revenue by 5% vs FY25 forecast and net assets by $0.7M

• 1 ERM Framework launched organization-wide

• Optimize costs and align resources with strategic initiatives

• 2 top enterprise risks actively mitigated

• 1 ELT Risk Committee formed

• Strengthen risk management and internal audit functions

• Quarterly reporting introduced for Audit Committee and Board

• Invest in technology, fundraising, membership activation, and leadership development

• Leadership engaged in organization-wide risk discussions

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The ELC Members connecting during the welcome reception at the Winter Member Meeting in Washington, DC.

PEOPLE & CULTURE

Cultivating an inclusive, high-performing workplace and developing the systems, talent, and culture that power long-term organizational success.

Building Impact, Resilience, and Growth

In 2025, The ELC’s People & Culture team provided strategic leadership at a moment when talent, agility, and culture mattered more than ever. As expectations rose and the pace of change quickened, the team anchored the organization with a clear focus: invest in people, strengthen systems, and create the conditions for sustained success.

Through thoughtful engagement, organizational learning, and values-driven leadership, the team helped ensure The ELC remained not just operationally sound, but deeply aligned with its mission.

This work is about both employee experience and shaping a future-ready organization, one that can grow with intention, respond with resilience, and lead with purpose.

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Nurturing Talent: Envision Internship Program

The Envision Internship Program continues to grow as a pipeline for future leadership. In 2025, the program received 2,477 applications, a 124% increase from 2024 and a 220% increase from 2023. This reflects The ELC’s growing reputation as a destination for highpotential talent.

• Diversity & Representation: 57% of interns hail from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and 11% are ELC Scholars.

At the same time, The ELC deepened its investment in people. Through expanded learning resources, stronger engagement efforts, and new spaces for connection— like the Employee Engagement Committee—employees were equipped not only to grow but to thrive. These efforts were reflected in sustained Great Place to Work® scores and increased participation in professional development.

Impact in Action: Team Days of Service

The ELC’s commitment to community is expressed through team-led service initiatives:

• Development Focus: Interns engage in professional workshops, networking with industry leaders, and capstone projects with internal stakeholders, providing hands-on leadership experience.

• Spring: Partnered with DC Greens on urban farming and environmental justice.

• Fall: Supported over 5,000 meals for children through No Kid Hungry.

• Winter: Collaborated with DC Central Kitchen on meal prep and workforce development.

These experiences reinforce the connection between internal culture and external impact, reflecting The ELC’s values in action.

People & Culture: 2026 Priorities

As The ELC enters its 40th year, People & Culture will focus on:

The ELC Scholars practicing their networking skills at the 2025 Honors Symposium.

• Elevating culture and wellbeing through belonging, feedback, and psychological safety

Building the Foundation for a Future-Ready Workforce

• Accelerating growth by attracting top talent aligned with long-term goals

In 2025, The People & Culture team advanced a holistic talent strategy focused on sustainability, performance, and inclusion—laying the groundwork for an agile, future-ready organization.

A cornerstone of this effort was the launch of The ELC’s first Knowledge Management Program, designed to capture institutional know-how, streamline collaboration, and reduce operational risk. By transforming siloed expertise into accessible systems— checklists, templates, shared repositories—the team made onboarding faster, cross-functional work more efficient, and continuity more reliable.

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• Building leadership capability to meet complexity with confidence • Scaling knowledge systems to preserve expertise and increase agility • Deepening community connection through service and local engagement These priorities support a resilient, inclusive workforce built for lasting impact.

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ELC MEMBERS

ON THE MOVE

Q4 2025

C A R EER TRANSI TI ONS Peter Akwaboah, Chief Operating Officer for Fannie Mae was named Interim CEO for the company.

Javara Perrilliat, formerly Area President for Republic Services has become Division President, West for QXO. Marc Womack, formerly EVP of Operations for Santander Consumer USA to become EVP, Head of US Consumer Deposits & Payment Products for TD Bank Soraya Wright, Retired Global Head of Corporate Risk Management & Claims for Amazon was named Interim CEO for The Legacy Funds of Holy Names University.

BOARD AND COM MI SSI O N A P P O I N T M E N TS Gunther Bright, Retired EVP & GM, Global Commercial Services – Global and US Large Enterprises for American Express was named to the Board of Directors for Ally Financial.

Gina Loften, Independent Board Director for TIAA and Foursquare has become Chair of the Board of North Carolina A&T University.

Kimberly MacKay, SVP, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for West Pharmaceutical Services joined the board of CTS Corporation.

Darryl Roberts, SVP, Chief Operations & Engineering Officer for DuPont joined the board of AdvanSix. Agnes Bundy Scanlan, CEO for The Cambridge Group was named to the Board of National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) – New England Chapter.

Scott Uzzell, President & CEO for Helen of Troy Ltd was named to its Board of Directors.

Leroy Williams, Former EVP & Chief Growth and Innovation Officer at Optimum (Altice USA) to join the Executive Advisory Board of AI company TechSee. Jacky Wright, Former Senior Partner & Chief Technology & Platform Officer for McKinsey & Company was selected to the board of directors of Frasers Group plc.

Jaime Wynn, President of Jimmy Choo Americas was named to the board of The Dance Theatre of Harlem.

MA JO R AWAR DS Carla Harris, Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley, will receive the 2026 Legacy Award at the 20th Annual Black Enterprise Women of Power Summit, March 11th-15th at the Bellagio Resort Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

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Gina Loften, Independent Board Director for TIAA and Foursquare being honored by North Carolina State University naming their new state-of-the-art Cyber Defense and Intelligence Lab after her.

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Justina Nixon-Saintil, VP, Global Chief Impact Officer for IBM and President, IBM International Foundation was just named one of the 100 Top ChangeLeaders for 2025 by the website We Make Change.org, honoring the top Social Impact Leaders.

Lorna Wisham, Former VP, Corporate Affairs and Community Involvement and President, FirstEnergy Foundation for FirstEnergy received the 2025 Black Professional of the Year award from the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation during their 45th Annual Scholarship and Awards Gala.

MEDIA ME NTI ONS The American Banker 2025 Most Powerful Women in Finance was released and three of The ELC members were featured: #5 - Thasunda Brown Duckett, President & CEO, TIAA #15 - Racquel Oden, Head of Wealth and Private Banking, HSBC USA #20 – Courtney Gibson, CEO, Retirement Solutions, TIAA Herman Bulls, Retired Vice Chairman, Americas for JLL featured in an article and podcast for Directors & Boards about what boards should do to set them up for success now and in the future.

Calvin Butler, President & CEO at Exelon was quoted in a New York Times article about the impact of AI and Data Centers across the country. He was also quoted in a Reuters article about the need for legislation to meet evolving energy demands.

Thasunda Brown Duckett, President & CEO of TIAA, was recently a panelist at LinkedIn’s Talent Connect Conference and was quoted for HR Executive Magazine.

Rhonda Mims, EVP & Chief Risk and Public Affairs Officer for AmeriHealth Caritas was quoted as the company announced a $350,000 contribution to Feeding America.

Tamla Oates-Fornay, CEO of SHRM Linkage was quoted in a recent article about Leading with Purpose in a Changing World.

Bentina Terry, President & CEO, Southern Linc and Southern Telecom for Southern Company was on an October 14th Directors & Boards podcast speaking on the topics of shareholder activism and the ability to build resiliency and dealing with directors with very different points of view.

Reggie Van Lee, Executive Partner & Managing Director for Alix Partners was the Cover and Cover story for the July/August 2025 issue of Swerv magazine.

Directors & Boards released their 2025 Directors to Watch List for the best directors at Large Cap companies and three of The ELC members were featured: Arlene Isaacs-Lowe, Former Special Advisor for Moody’s and Independent Board Director for Compass Group PLC, Equitable Holdings, Xenia Hotels & Resorts Lakecia Gunter, Former CTO – Global Partner Solutions for Microsoft and Independent Board Director for IDEX Corporation Teri McClure, Former SVP, GC & CHRO for UPS and Independent Board Director for JetBlue, Fluor, Lennar

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2026 ELC Calendar of Events The ELC Member Meeting March 18-20, 2026 | Houston, TX

Corporate Board Navigator Cohort II Kickoff Summer 2026 | Location TBD

Leadership Development Week Summer 2026 | Location TBD

C-Suite Academy Summer 2026 | Location TBD

Member Excursion July 1-6, 2026 | St. Kitts and Nevis

The ELC Member Reception at The Vineyard

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CEO GameChanger Conference® October 30, 2026 | National Harbor, MD

The ELC Recognition Gala October 30, 2026 | National Harbor, MD

The ELC Member Closing Brunch October 31, 2026 | National Harbor, MD

The ELC UK Convening October 2026 | Location TBD

Board Directors’ Summit December 2026 | Location TBD

August 2026 | Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Summer Executive Workshop August 2026 | Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Honors Symposium October 28-31, 2026 | National Harbor, MD

Mid-Level Managers’ Symposium October 29-30, 2026 | National Harbor, MD

Corporate Board Navigator at Gala Week October 29, 2026 | National Harbor, MD

Download The ELC’s 2026 Sponsorship Opportunities To learn more about how to get involved, event details & more.