Foreword

I have had the privilege of serving The Executive Leadership Council (ELC) as a participant in one of The ELC’s premier Institute programs, as a member, as a Board Director, and now as Interim President and CEO. So, I can confidently say that for over three decades, The ELC continues to solidify its reputation in the business community as the go-to and trusted source for information on and for blacks in business. So this journal is not just any journal - it is a journal from a valued and trusted resource.

In 2020, the beginning of a new decade, The ELC continues to be an innovative leader in the community on behalf of our members, amongst business leaders, and through the organization’s brand. The ELC is excited to share our latest contribution to black thought leadership with the launch of a new initiative - the Research Journal for Black Professionals.

Our goal is to share more research and elevate the thought leadership around blacks in business through sharing more research, op-eds, and compelling stories. These bodies of work will open opportunity for the development and advancement of the black executive experience which will positively impact the businesses and communities where we work and our families live.

In everything we do, we recognize we didn’t get there alone and that success is founded on partnership and relationships. As this journal highlights, we partner to drive action in diversity, inclusion and equity. I thank all the authors that contributed to our inaugural journal.

To our members - we hope you see yourselves reflected in these pages as you enjoy reading.

Crystal E. Ashby Interim President and CEO The Executive Leadership Council