If you could advise yourself as an undergraduate here at Indiana University on how to break into leadership roles in business, what would you say?
In all honestly, I would tell myself to lead with meaning. To believe in myself. To make intentional choices about not just my career, but my life. To think critically about what to say 'yes' to and what to say 'no' to. To always act with integrity, intention, and humanity. And to use my personal purpose as a lantern to guide the way forward and a measuring stick to track my progress along the way. I never envisioned myself in the C-suite—let alone in the corporate sector—but as I look back, the principles in Lead Like You Mean It were the very things that made my life and leadership journey what it is.
What is your biggest challenge in your leadership journey, and how did you overcome it?
Being the only Black student in my class from first grade through high school graduation was the beginning of a lifetime of being the first one, the only one, or one of a few. While it was my greatest challenge, it was also my greatest blessing. From the classroom to the boardroom, I have often been the one who is not like the others. And it was sometimes quite lonely and exhausting. But it also made me stronger and empowered me to provide an important perspective that otherwise wouldn’t be heard. Giving voice to the voiceless. I can’t imagine my journey any other way, and I am grateful for the unique path that has been my calling.
Your book, Lead Like You Mean It, focuses on integrity and purpose. Why do you believe these qualities are essential for leadership success?
Integrity and purpose are anchors that keep us afloat on our life and leadership learning journey. Being grounded in who you are and the meaning you want to make is your competitive advantage. In today’s unpredictable, challenging business environment, you will have to reinvest in yourself throughout your life and career. When you are acting from your purpose and in good faith with others, as much as you may change, you will always be you. And the world needs the original you, not an imitation of someone else. Believe in and bet on you and stay true to who you are. Your sense of purpose and consistently ethical behavior will serve you well—and make a positive impact on those around you.
IU encourages students to be engaged citizens. How can young professionals use their careers to drive positive change in their communities?
I love this question. The seeds of my purpose—to be of service through acts big and small, every day—were sown in my childhood, thanks to my parents. I continued to build on my commitment to serve at IU through my engagements with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., as resident assistant at McNutt, and other volunteer and community efforts.
With rapid changes in technology, AI, and consumer behavior, what skills should IU students and alumni focus on to stay ahead in the job market?
I believe that soft skills are the new hard skills. In an AI world—with rapidly evolving consumer expectations and preferences—communication, critical thinking and decision-making skills remain vital. Focusing on these skills will serve you in any role. Emotional intelligence and the ability to listen, debate, and negotiate effectively are taking on new meaning. A technology-driven world needs people who lead with purpose and integrity—and who know how to create authentic human connection. Relationships matter. As does being an adaptive lifelong learner.
