14 Years of Leadership & Impact: A Conversation with Retiring INROADS
CEO Forest T. Harper, Jr.
INROADS and United Way of Central Maryland Partnership
Meet Some of our 2025 Summer Interns
INROADS Alumni Spotlights & Chapter Listings
36 44 Celebrating INROADS Students During Black History Month
Ariana Patterson: Student Member of the INROADS National Board 46
Rising Strong Together: Celebrating Women’s History Month A Conversation with INROADS Alumna Jill Pemberton, CFO of LVMH Meet the INROADS Student Advisory Board
How to Make it as an Entrepreneur
INROADS is proudly celebrating its 55th anniversary marking over half a century of turning bold dreams into powerful realities. This special edition of The INTELLIGENCE celebrates the accomplishments of INROADS Alumni and highlights the dreams and aspirations of our students.
Founded Touch4Life, a 501c3 nonprofit, and launched MyGenesMyLife(TM), an initiative that advocates for access to quality breast health for Black and Brown women, encouraging them complete biomarkers and genetic testing.
He is passionate about paying it forward to the next generation of first-time graduates
Retired NASA Astronaut President & Founder at Joan Higginbotham Ad Astra
Found his professional calling during an internship with RubinBrown through INROADS. In 2022, he earned the role of Managing Partner, making him
After interning at Southern Company through INROADS, his future goal is to to secure a full-time role there as a software developer.
Aims to build a meaningful career in financial consulting, helping companies achieve sustainable growth and taking on leadership roles where he can mentor others. He desires to make a broader impact by promoting financial literacy and career development.
After graduating with a degree in operations and information systems, she hopes to leverage technology across the globe to help others achieve their potential, master skills, and realize their worth.
The most influential leaders of our time leave legacies that shape the future and transform lives for generations to come As INROADS celebrates the retirement of Forest T. Harper, Jr., we honor his significant impact on empowering talented youth across the nation leadership has not only opened doors to opportunity but also paved pathways for future changemakers to become impactful leaders in business and their communities
Throughout his 14-year tenure at INROADS, Forest has spearheaded initiatives that equip students with the skills, resources, and life-long support needed to advance and thrive in their careers. His work has contributed to greater economic mobility, the creation of generational wealth, and the narrowing of persistent wealth and opportunity gaps. With a steadfast commitment to expanding access to quality careers, his efforts have helped reshape the landscape of corporate America—cultivating high-performing and innovative workplaces, one future leader at a time.
Forest’s leadership is marked by numerous achievements, including:
Graduating over 12,000 interns into careers. Expanding the INROADS College Links program to 18 cities and over 2,000 students. Increasing philanthropic contributions to INROADS from ~$400,000 to $5,000,000 from 2011.
Helping launch the HBCU Sustainable Communities Initiative (HBCU SCI), a historic partnership with Thurgood Marshall College Fund and UNCF, supported by the Southern Company Foundation.
Creating the INROADS Financial Services Institute (FSI) in partnership with JP Morgan Chase’s Advancing Black Pathways. Closing the wealth gap in America as evidenced by the Towards Equity research study on the impact of INROADS programs
Below is a conversation with Forest T. Harper that reflects on his 14 years of impact at INROADS.
WHAT HAS SHAPED THE FOREST T. HARPER, JR. THAT WE KNOW TODAY?
God. God allowed me to grow up in Fort Pierce, Florida — home to some of the best, brightest, and strongest Americans ever. They include Khalil Mack, one of the toughest linebackers to ever play in the National Football League, and Zora Neale Hurston, a writer who opined with grace while offering unflinching portrayals of racism in the 20th-century South.
Growing up there, playing high school football, and serving in the military are all experiences that helped me clearly understand the impact that one person can have, and the sweeping change that a team can make God also gave me the fortune of attending and graduating from Morgan State University. My time spent there as a student leader, and today as the chairman of their foundation, has impacted my life tremendously.
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST ACCOMPLISHMENT TO DATE?
Serving as president and CEO at INROADS is a crowning honor for me. Not because of the title but because of the privilege it gave me to sow into the lives of youth many of whom were labeled as underdogs while growing up. I relate with our students on a personal level because, throughout my career, I often found myself in the position of the underdog.
I think about my time at Pfizer. In my role as a global executive, I worked alongside professionals from across the world many with far more experience than I had at the time. But I worked hard and made a difference including leading efforts to expand clinical trials for Black men involving one of their leading products. My experiences there, and growing up in Fort Pierce, helped me develop a rich appreciation for resilience.
AS YOU PREPARE FOR RETIREMENT, WHAT WILL YOU MISS?
I will miss the mission. INROADS founder, Father Frank C. Carr, created an extraordinary legacy—one that continues to guide and inspire every INROADS leader. It has been an honor to walk in his shadow while helping shape the futures of so many talented students.
Even though I am retiring, I am fully aware that the work for me doesn’t stop. I am a servant it’s woven into my DNA. It’s what I am designed to do. So, I look forward to continuing to give my time, energy, and resources to this calling for as long as God allows.
SO, WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?
The next chapter of my leadership isn’t about what’s next for me it’s about what must continue. It’s about the work that still needs to be done.
INROADS has helped thousands of students achieve economic mobility and build generational wealth. A 2021 Towards Equity research study highlighted the long-term impact of INROADS programs: our alumni had higher homeownership rates than the general population, and 40% of those surveyed reported a net worth between $500k and $5m compared to just 18% of all U.S. households. It goes without saying, this work must continue Even when I am no longer the president and CEO of INROADS I
WHAT IS YOUR WISH FOR INROADS
INROADS is a true leader it comes to organizations that intentionally shape the lives and careers of students desire I hold for INROADS is shared by our Board of Directors and staff alike
nation and world need our mission more than ever. Our youth deserve our advocacy. Our corporate partners must demand our partnership. Tomorrow is what we make it. So, with wisdom, persistence, and a resilient commitment to expanding access in corporate America, INROADS will continue to be a beacon of opportunity for all.
EMPOWERING THE FUTURE:
INROADS AND UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL MARYLAND
PARTNER TO EMPOWER YOUNG MEN IN BALTIMORE WITH CAREER AND COLLEGE READINESS OPPORTUNITIES
With a shared vision to uplift and empower young men of color in Baltimore, INROADS and the United Way of Central Maryland’s Young Men United program have joined forces in a strategic partnership. This collaboration aims to provide young men of color in Baltimore high schools with the resources, skills, and meaningful experiences they need to succeed in their educational and professional endeavors.
The INROADS College Links program prepares high school students for college and career readiness. Through interactive workshops, leadership development, and professional mentorship, College Links equips students with the tools needed to thrive in higher education and the workforce. Similarly, Young Men United focuses on academic support, personal development, and career exploration, helping young men navigate their educational journeys with confidence and purpose
By integrating the INROADS College Links curriculum into the Young Men United program, this partnership creates a comprehensive framework for career readiness and professional development. The result? A transformative experience that not only develops leadership skills but also bridges the gap between education and professional success.
Together, these organizations will provide:
Robust career readiness training
Hands-on internship experiences
Comprehensive mentorship and leadership development
Wrap-around support for students and their families
This multi-faceted approach ensures that students don’t just dream about success they actively pursue and achieve it.
For Forest T Harper, Jr., President and CEO of INROADS, this partnership represents more than just a collaboration it’s a shared commitment to breaking down barriers and creating new opportunities for young men of color.
“Since 1970, we have worked passionately to eliminate economic disparities by expanding access to quality career opportunities," says Harper “Through transformative career readiness programs and real-world learning experiences, INROADS equips talented youth with the skills and tools to become impactful leaders in business and their communities. Partnering with United Way of Central Maryland’s Young Men United program allows us to extend that impact to even more young men of color in Baltimore."
Franklyn Baker, President and CEO of United Way of Central Maryland, sees this initiative as a game-changer for students in the region.
“United Way is committed to equitable access to and opportunity in education and economic advancement. Young Men United leverages the innate strengths and abilities of its participants and provides critical support as they pursue their academic and career goals. Our partnership with INROADS will expand and accelerate the impact of this program with vital career readiness skills and real-world experiences that will open doors to limitless opportunities.”
This partnership between INROADS and United Way of Central Maryland reflects a shared commitment to fostering economic mobility and long-term success for young men in Baltimore. By combining the strengths of both organizations, INROADS and United Way of Central Maryland aim to create a brighter future for the next generation of leaders.
REASONS #99 TOJOINTHE INROADS EXPERIENCE
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Your gift to INROADS enables life-changing career development and paid internship opportunities for high-potential students.
Our annual Benefit Gala that recognizes our visionaries and leaders who mirror the legacy of INROADS founder Frank C. Carr. Together, we raise funds to provide transformative career readiness programs, access to real-world learning experiences, and a lifelong support network, equipping high-potential students with the skills and confidence to achieve their aspirations.
Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium WASHINGTON, DC
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DONATE AT
INROADS.ORG/BENEFITGALA
OUR SPONSORS
President and Chief Executive Officer
, TIAA
Fourth African American woman in history to lead a Fortune 500 company
INROADS Alumna as one of the 2024 Most Powerful Women Featured in
Named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World by
MASTER OF
Pulitzer Prize and Emmy AwardWinning Investigative Journalist
Ida B. Wells Professor, Arizona State University
INROADS Alumna
AWARD RE
CIPIENTS
MYRNA GARCIA SCHOLARSHIP
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2024 MYRNA GARCIA VISIONES SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
Congratulations to the recipients of the Myrna Garcia Visiones Scholarship. Awarded in October 2024 in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, this scholarship recognizes the leadership and achievements of bright and gifted students. INROADS is honored to be a part of their journey toward success, and we look forward to seeing where they will go!
INROADS Intern at Florida Blue
Junior at Florida State University
Kelin Gonzalez
INROADS College Links Scholar
Graduated from Thomas Edison High School
INROADS College Links Scholar
Senior at Cypress Park High School
Herson Maradiaga
Juliana Castillo
Senior at Chattahoochee High School Johns Creek, GA
Lugo
Isabela Rodriguez
Senior at Chattahoochee High School Alpharetta, Georgia
Freshman at Texas A&M University
INROADS Intern at Arm
Junior at The University of Texas at Austin
INROADS Intern at Arch Insurance
Junior at Texas A&M University
Adrian Peña
INROADS Intern at Fannie Mae
Senior at George Mason University
Andres Gonzalez
Senior at Cambridge High School Milton, GA
Matthew Martinez
Freshman at the University of Texas at Austin
Major: Physical Culture and Sports
Jorge Garcia-Alfaro
INROADS Intern at Guidewell
Junior at Florida State University
Jarrett Karner
INROADS Intern at the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency
Senior at University of Maryland (College Park)
Jahayra Guzman-Rivas
INROADS Intern at Kite Pharmaceuticals
Senior at George Mason University
Shaneris Nalls
INROADS Intern at National Co-op Grocers
Senior at North Carolina A&T State University
Ivana
Ariana Sepulveda
INROADS has been key to my professional growth through coaching, training, and networking My internship at Marsh & McLennan taught me to value myself and my colleagues I’ve learned the importance of working with experienced professionals, as they provide invaluable insights After leaving State Farm Insurance in December 2019, I transitioned to a Dual Language First Grade Teacher at Aurora East School District 131 in 2020 I now serve as the PLC Leader for the First Grade Dual Language Team at J.W. Gates Elementary School.
Professional Learning Community ( PLC) Leader at J.W. Gates Elementary
My career, shaped by my INROADS internship with The Coca-Cola Company, demonstrates the transformative power of mentorship and innovation. During my internship as a Finance Intern from 2005 to 2006, I gained valuable insights into corporate finance that laid the foundation for my professional journey. Today, as Global Associate Director at Baxter International, I lead healthcare innovations and was honored with the 2022 INROADS Mid-Atlantic Region Alumni Association Trailblazer Award for my contributions to healthcare strategy.
My goal is to make healthcare more accessible and efficient, and my advice to students is, “Genuine growth often comes wrapped in discomfort; embrace challenges to redefine your limits.”
Global Associate Director of Strategy & Market Intelligence at Baxter International
My career began with an INROADS internship at Convergys Corporation, where I was introduced to corporate America and learned the value of mentorship and professional growth. Today, as Chief Human Resources Officer at Darden Restaurants, I drive talent development and foster an inclusive workplace culture. My leadership, rooted in empathy and innovation, has helped position the company for success.
I encourage interns to focus on building strong networks, as success often depends on who you know and how you engage with others. My goal is to continue creating opportunities for students.
Chief HR Officer at Darden Resturants
INROADS really helped shape my career path during college I honestly would have been lost without the program. They took the time to understand my interests and matched me with a company that was a great fit.
As an alumna, I love the opportunities I now have to give back, like participating in the intern speaker series and connecting with the current cohort It feels great to share advice and insights that might help them on their own journeys Last year, I got my first promotion, moving from an Associate Manufacturing Process Engineer (Level 1) to a Sr Associate (Level 2). Now, I’m focused on reaching Level 3, hopefully by next year!
Manufacturing Process Engineer @ L3Harris Communication Systems in Salt Lake City, Utah
ZULEEMAH EDWARDS
New Director Alumni Relations
MY EARLY CHILDHOOD
INROADS is thrilled to announce that Zuleemah Edwards’ role at INROADS is expanding to Senior National Director of External Affairs & Alumni Relations. A proud INROADS alumna and Spelman College graduate with Afro-Caribbean roots, Zuleemah knows firsthand the transformative power of the INROADS experience and its lifelong impact
For more than 13 years, she has been a dedicated leader within the INROADS organization, and brings a wealth of expertise in strategic alliances and corporate partnerships, fund development, brand management, corporate and community engagement, and fundraising event curation.
Known for her ability to execute large-scale projects and high-impact experiences from C-suite engagements to corporate and community partnerships Zuleemah has a special talent for turning big ideas into meaningful, memorable experiences.
Her passion for the INROADS mission, deep commitment to excellence, and inclusive leadership style make her the ideal person to lead Alumni Relations for the organization on a national scale. Zuleemah is excited to deepen connections within the Alumni community and amplify the collective power of the INROADS Alumni network.
ASHLEIGH CLYDE
President
Junior, Hollins University
I joined the INROADS Student Advisory Board because I am passionate about creating opportunities for students and advancing economic opportunity INROADS has helped in my professional development, and I wanted to give back by helping shape initiatives that support other students' success. As President, I strive to strengthen the bridge between students and corporate partners
RENEE KRSNA OLANDA
Vice President
Senior, Valdosta State University
As someone who values leadership, community, and growth, I saw the SAB as an opportunity to collaborate with driven peers and make a meaningful impact. I was particularly excited about the chance to support recruitment and outreach efforts that help more students access the lifechanging opportunities INROADS provides. Ultimately, I joined to help shape the future of INROADS while continuing to grow personally and professionally
TITUS CARIGNAN
Secretary
Junior,
University at Buffalo, New York
I wanted to join the INROADS Student Advisory Board because I know how impactful INROADS can be Not only just in terms of career opportunities, but in helping people like me grow personally and professionally Serving on the board allows me to contribute to something bigger than myself while helping me build my leadership and communication skills
MASSAI MORGAN
Board Member
Sophomore, Bowie State University
I wanted to become a member of the INROADS Student Student Advisory Board because of the impact the INROADS College Links program has had on my professional development.
I’ve met so many great people and learned so many valuable lessons from this program, and I want to be able to share the experience with other students within underrepresented communities.
Board Member
Senior, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
I wanted to join the Student Advisory Board (SAB) because I wanted to help strengthen the organization in any way I could and make a meaningful difference for fellow interns Having benefited from the INROADS program, I felt compelled to contribute to its continued success and evolution and amplify student voices
Board Member
Sophomore, Louisiana State University
I joined the INROADS Student Advisory Board to hear the voices of other students and be a part of the difference that INROADS makes. Being on the Board gives me the opportunity to interact with extremely intelligent students and put our heads together to help INROADS prosper
LOUIS NWUHA
Board Member
Senior and Master’s Student, The Catholic University of America
I joined the INROADS Student Advisory Board because it allows me to be a part of the decision-making at INROADS, ensuring that the organization continues to meet the career goals of students like me.
Board Member
Junior, Rutgers UniversityNew Brunswick
I wanted to join the INROADS Student Advisory Board because INROADS has played a huge role in my professional growth, and I wanted to give back I also saw it as a great way to connect with other motivated students, share ideas, and make a real impact on improving the program for underserved students
During Black History Month, we honored the legacy of those who paved the way while empowering the next generation of history-makers to achieve greatness.
Through transformative career readiness programs, mentorship, and real-world learning experiences. INROADS equips talented youth with the skills and tools to break barriers and build brighter futures.
RISINGSTARININFORMATIONMANAGEMENT
Master’s Student, University of Washington
"Black History Month serves as a powerful reminder of the hard work, determination, resilience, and contributions of my African American ancestors throughout history, despite the systemic oppression they faced. As a Black individual, BHM is an opportunity for me to reflect on the legacy of those who paved the way for the opportunities I have today, as well as a chance to celebrate my own identity and culture."
the leaders, families, and communities who willingly suffered in hope of obtaining equity for all people. Black history isn't just American history—it’s world history."
INROADS proudly welcomes Ariana Patterson as the 2025 Student Member of the INROADS National Board of Directors! A sophomore at Louisiana State University (LSU) majoring in Psychology, Ariana exemplifies leadership, academic excellence, and a passion for driving meaningful change.
Recognized as an LSU Presidential Scholar, she has earned a place on the President’s Honor Roll and Dean’s List, showcasing her unwavering dedication to academic success. Beyond the classroom, Ariana is a member of the Black Student Union, the NAACP on campus, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. where she joined the step team and was selected as one of the “Sisters of the Month.”
Ariana has also been highly engaged with INROADS since she was a high school student. She participated in the College Links program in Washington, D.C. She completed her first INROADS Internship at UnitedHealth Group as a Project Intern, where she gained valuable hands-on experience and further strengthened her leadership and professional skills
"Before my involvement with INROADS, I had no idea how to conduct myself in the professional world, nor did I realize the importance of seeking internships while in high school. INROADS opened up my eyes to a whole new world,” said Ariana. “Thanks to the training I received from INROADS, I secured a summer internship with UnitedHealth Group immediately after graduating high school. I can never thank INROADS enough for guiding me onto the right path toward my future career and for teaching me essentials that you don’t learn in school INROADS continues to positively impact my life every day."
Ariana also serves on the Student Advisory Board for INROADS, a panel of INROADS interns selected to help advise INROADS on student engagement, programs, and opportunities while serving as INROADS representatives. As a member of the Student Advisory Board, Ariana is gaining leadership experience while helping shape the future of INROADS.
“My vision for INROADS is to continue helping all the students we serve currently as well as broadening our outreach to ensure we’re maximizing the number of students who gain access to training and internship opportunities,” noted Ariana
With a self-motivated spirit and a drive to embrace new challenges, Ariana is eager to continue contributing her insights as an INROADS National Board member and collaborate on initiatives that empower future generations.
RISING STRONG TOGETHER
CELEBRATING WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH
In honor of Women's History Month 2025, INROADS celebrated the wisdom, strength, and trailblazing spirit of women leaders. Our "Rising Strong Together" campaign was designed to empower young women to aspire higher, featuring powerful Insights and advice from INROADS alumna who've walked the path before them.
Through their guidance, we shared lessons in resilience, confidence, and courageinspiring young women to break barriers and reach new heights in their careers.
Read below for empowering career wisdom and opportunities to uplift the next generation of women leaders
"Always be actively learning and engaging with your community. Lead with positivity and intent."
INROADS Alumna, Intern Class of 2005
Director of Marketing at Franz Bakery
VICTORIA KRABILL
WE ALL RISE STRONGER TOGETHER. WHEN WE LIFT EACH OTHER UP,
"Surround yourself with other women create a network and nurture it. Set your own values and establish boundaries to keep them front and center. Make room for flexibility, but always know your limits."
Chief Financial and Administrative Officer at The Better Angels Society
"Even today, there are still women breaking barriers, so don't be surprised if you have to work harder to break through Always remember to bring other women along with you The person who submitted my resume for my first big job told me to pay it forward because none of us make it to where we are alone That advice has served me well, and I believe it's something we should all follow."
Vice President, Political Strategy at Crooked Media
SHANIQUA MCCLENDON
INROADS Alumna, Intern Class of 2007
RISING STRONG TOGETHER
CELEBRATING WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH
“I encourage young women to be bold in charting their own unique paths and to never underestimate the power of their diverse perspectives. As we witness the rapid advancement of transformative technologies like AI, having diverse voices at the table isn't just beneficial –it's essential To young women, especially women of color: your presence in these spaces matters immensely.
Don't be afraid to take calculated risks, seek out mentors who can guide you, and most importantly, believe in your ability to make meaningful contributions.”
“Run your race. Do not let comparison rob you of your greatness.”
INROADS Alumna, Intern Class of 2005
HR Business Partner at Cooper Norman, PLLC
Sr Product Marketing Manager, AI/ML Solutions at AWS (Amazon Web Services)
DIANA CARRILLO
INROADS Alumna, Intern Class of 2007
WE ALL RISE STRONGER TOGETHER. WHEN WE LIFT EACH OTHER UP,
"You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. This is the truest proverb to live by The sky is NOT the limit for your potential."
ZOYA JONES - REID
INROADS Alumna, Intern Class of 2017
Human Resource Manager at Oak Street Health
"Learn how to play the game, then change it. Embrace the structure, understand it, and then shake it up with your own rules."
RISING STRONG TOGETHER
CELEBRATING WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH
"Do not allow 'no' to be the final answer. Emotional intelligence goes a long way."
SHAN'TELL BOYCE
INROADS Alumna, Intern Class of 2004
Corporate Data Compliance Analyst at IST Management
"To young women aspiring to make a difference or break barriers, my advice is to trust the power of your unique voice and perspective it’s your greatest asset Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, and don’t let the fear of failure hold you back; every step, even the missteps, brings you closer to your goals.
Most importantly, stay authentic and bold in your pursuit, knowing that your courage to break barriers will pave the way for others to follow."
CRYSTAL FOOTE
INROADS Alumna, Intern Class of 2008
Founder, Digital Culture Group
INROADS.org/Donate
From summer internships to C-suite leadership, Jill Pemberton’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Today, she serves as the North America Chief Financial Officer for LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton the world’s most iconic luxury group, home to brands like Louis Vuitton, Sephora, Tiffany & Co., Hennessy and more. But her path to the top began with a strong foundation: a deep respect for education, a powerful work ethic instilled by her family, and a transformative experience with INROADS.
Jill credits INROADS with giving her not just access, but guidance—pairing her with mentors who saw her potential and helped shape her into the leader she is today.
We sat down with Jill to explore how mentorship opened doors, how INROADS prepared her to lead with purpose, and why she’s passionate about inspiring the next generation.
YOU’VE HAD A DYNAMIC CAREER ACROSS INDUSTRIES. WHAT FUELED YOUR INTEREST IN FINANCE—AND HOW DID YOUR EARLY INFLUENCES SHAPE YOUR WORK ETHIC?
Growing up, I was fascinated by companies that made things people could touch and experience. That curiosity eventually shaped my career—TRW to Delta Air Lines, Heinz, Johnson & Johnson, Viacom, and now LVMH.
But it all started at home. My Mom worked in education and my father worked at General Electric. They taught me to value learning and hard work. My mother was also an entrepreneur she became the first female Popeyes franchisee in the country and eventually ran seven restaurants.
As a youth, my friends and I thought that was so cool. We worked in the stores during the summers to contribute to growing the business. That’s an early example of me embracing the kind of work ethic that would follow me throughout my career My mother showed me firsthand that running a business is tough and it takes a team effort, grit, and resilience to succeed
HOW DID INROADS SHAPE YOUR CAREER— AND WHAT ROLE DID MENTORSHIP PLAY IN YOUR GROWTH?
INROADS was a game-changer While I was a student at Yale, INROADS connected me with meaningful summer internships but more it introduced me to mentors who helped guide my career.
My first INROADS mentor, Liz Lombard, helped prepare me for my first corporate role at TRW. It was there I started to understand that finance t just about numbers it was a tool for It allowed me to help companies make strategic decisions, optimize operations, and serve customers more effectively. I saw how I could lead and make a meaningful difference through the work I was doing
That mindset has stayed with me throughout my career. Mentors continued to show up at every stage people who offered wisdom, challenged me to grow, and entrusted me with greater responsibility. One of the most influential was Hein Schumacher, who brought me to London for a leadership role at Heinz. Mentorship and sponsorship like that doesn’t just shape careers it transforms lives.
AS A LEADER TODAY, HOW DO YOU VIEW YOUR ROLE IN INSPIRING OTHERS—ESPECIALLY RISING PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR?
Representation absolutely matters I believe that when people see someone who looks like them in a leadership role, it sends a powerful message: You belong You can do this
When I walk into a room, I carry the responsibility of being that example. I want young professionals to know that if they’re in the room, it’s because they have something meaningful to contribute. INROADS creates space for that connecting talent with mentors who nurture their potential and push them to grow. I’m proud to be an INROADS alumna. It gave me my start and a community that continues to inspire me today.
Share your journey and inspire others
We're eager to spotlight the voices and journeys of our incredible alumni. Your experiences, achievements, and lessons learned can motivate the next generation and highlight the impact of INROADS. Your unique story has the power the inspire and empower, and we'd love to feature it across our digital and print platforms.
HOW TO MAKE IT AS AN ENTREPRENEUR
From the 2024 INROADS National Conference
EMBRACE FAILURE, BE BRAVE YOU ARE THE AUTHOR OF YOUR STORY 2 1
Success starts with bravery, not perfection Dive into new challenges headfirst, accept failures as learning experiences, and watch your entrepreneurial spirit flourish
Stop acting like a sidekick If you don’t like where your story is headed, rewrite it Your power lies in how you respond to life's challenges
Keyona
3
THE POWER OF COMMUNITY
Remember, if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together. Build a strong network that supports and uplifts you on your journey.
SEEK CLARITY AND JOY
Clarity fuels motivation Discover what brings you joy and align your work with those passions to create a fulfilling career
OVERCOME NEGATIVITY
Reprogram your mind to combat negativity Replace harmful narratives with positive affirmations and watch your outlook transform.
HARNESS THE POWER OF BREATH
CONSISTENCY IS KEY
Big changes come from small, consistent actions Make it a habit to work towards your goals daily, and success will follow.
PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE
Fear is just false evidence appearing real. Face it head-on, and don’t let it set limits on your potential LET GO OF FEAR 6 4 5 7 8 9 10
In moments of stress, pause and breathe Centering yourself through breathing exercises can restore calm and enhance focus
Self-care is a strategic asset for entrepreneurs Keeping your mind and body balanced enhances your productivity and focus, driving your business success
DEFINE YOUR CORE VALUES
Identify what truly matters to you and let those values guide every decision Clarity in your values ensures a purposeful path
VOLUNTEER
For more information contact: ymckinnon@inroads.org
WORKSHOP PRESENTER WORKSHOP PRESENTER
We are inviting corporate representatives, INROADS alumni, academic faculty, and motivational speakers to present workshops focused on business and soft skills.
12 - 1 PM EST SATURDAYS
More information and tools will be provided
For more information contact: khaynes@INROADS.org
Volunteer for single or multiple dates and classes
ALUMNI-INTERN ALUMNI-INTERN ENGAGEMENT SERIES ENGAGEMENT SERIES
The Alumni-Intern Engagement Series is designed to foster strong relationships between INROADS alumni and interns. We need alumni volunteers to host a 1-hour group Zoom conversation with interns.
7 - 8 PM EST PICK A TUESDAY THAT WORKS FOR YOU
OPPORTUNITIES!
INROADS.org/Volunteer
NATIONAL CONFERENCE NATIONAL CONFERENCE
NATIONAL CAREER ACADEMY (NCA)
NATIONAL CAREER ACADEMY (NCA)
We are inviting corporate representatives, INROADS alumni, academic faculty and motivational speakers to present workshops and panels focused on business and leadership skills during the INROADS National Conference for college interns and National Career Academy (NCA) for high school students.
Classes are 50 minutes
VIRTUAL
Facilitate a Workshop
Alumni Panel Participant
Times assigned between 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. EST
Thursday, July 17 & Friday, July 18, 2025
For more information contact: ymckinnon@inroads.org
Keynote Speaker
ATLANTA CHARLOTTE
BOSTON
atlantaalumni@INROADS org
charlottealumni@INROADS.org
Christopher Plumlee DALLAS dallasalumni@INROADS.org
Benjamin Lioue
@INROADS.org
Irving Roman, Jr.
Thesha Woodley
Khalid Umar
bostonalumni@INROADS.org
HOUSTON NEW JERSEY
Find out how to launch a chapter near you. Contact Zuleemah Edwards: Can’t find your city listed below? houstonalumni@
MID-ATLANTIC
AD
INROADS Professionals (iPROS) connects you to top companies nationwide. With iPROS, INROADS Alumni receive support in their job search by periodically receiving entry level, mid-career and executive level job opportunities.
Program Benefits
Access to full-time career opportunities in a variety of industries, nationwide Resume review and interview preparation
If you are actively seeking new career opportunities, contact FLP@INROADS.org
