The Advanced Leadership Institute (TALI) has partnered with Carnegie Mellon University to unveil its 2026 Emerging Leaders Program. This initiative aims to support and develop Black leaders and their allies. The program is now entering its fifth cohort and has introduced significant enhancements this year.
Overview of the Emerging Leaders Program
The Emerging Leaders Program fosters professional growth through a hybrid learning model. Participants will engage over six months, focusing on essential leadership skills.
- Managerial effectiveness
- Executive presence
- Negotiation strategies
- Creative problem-solving
This program emphasizes community building through networking and mentorship. On January 30, the 2026 Emerging Leaders Program officially commenced with a full day of classes and a reception for participants. This year’s cohort consists of 29 talented professionals from various industries.
Key Dates and Networking Opportunities
In February, the cohort will join members of the National Executive Leadership Academy for TALI’s Community Welcome Reception. This event aims to integrate both groups into the TALI network. A graduation ceremony will occur in June, marking the culmination of the program.
Evan Frazier, TALI’s President and CEO, expressed pride in this year’s cohort. He emphasized the program’s ongoing commitment to nurturing future leaders. “Given the exceptional talent in this year’s cohort, I am confident we will see meaningful and positive outcomes,” he stated.
Meet the 2026 Emerging Leaders Program Cohort
| Name | Position | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| Brandon Bell | Manager, Financial Compliance | Wabtec Corporation |
| Melanie Marie Boyer | CEO | Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce & Foundation |
| Meisha Boykin | Assistant Vice President of Community Development | Dollar Bank |
| Dr. Alexus Brown | Senior Research Scientist | University of Pittsburgh |
| Kenya Brown | Project Manager | Allegheny County Department of Human Services |
| Gabriella Davis | Program Manager | Crossroads Foundation |
| Joshua Devine | Economic Mobility Officer | The Pittsburgh Foundation |
| Nikki Feagin | Grants Manager | The Citizens Science Lab |
| Albert Garcia | Director of Development and Corporate Partnerships | Neighborhood Learning Alliance |
| Gabrielle Green | Operations Analyst Intermediate | UPMC Corporate Services |
| Precious Jackson | Operations Analyst | FHLBank Pittsburgh |
| Dorian King | Cybersecurity Engineer | CORE Natural Resources |
Mission and Support
TALI’s mission is to strengthen communities by cultivating leadership through executive education. This program is made possible through the collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University. Major corporations and foundations in the Pittsburgh area also contribute significantly.
For more information about TALI and its programs, visit El-Balad.
