The New Jersey Black Women’s Collective is accepting applications for the 2025 cohort of their Leadership Institute, a transformative program designed to cultivate and develop the next generation of Black women leaders in New Jersey.
The Leadership Institute is ideal for mid-level managers or supervisors ready to advance their careers, aspiring directors and vice presidents seeking to elevate their leadership impact, and professionals aiming to enhance their strategic and operational skills.
The application process, which is open now, will close on Jan. 8, 2025. For more information and to apply, click here.
The program, which is held at Mercer County Community College, will run from Jan. 25-June 28, 2025.
Tennille McCoy, a co-founder of NJBWC and the chair of the Leadership Institute, said the inaugural class showed the power of the institute.
“The passion and dedication displayed by participants throughout the program have been truly inspiring,” she said. “We designed this initiative not just to build leaders but to foster meaningful connections and equip them with actionable tools to address today’s challenges effectively.”
Participants in this cohort will engage in 14 curated sessions led by renowned keynote speakers and facilitators, including Melody M. Fogarty and Rita Williams-Bogar.
The program will feature leadership assessments and high-level instruction from Mercer County Community College, alongside workshops, panel discussions, and lectures focusing on leadership, organizational culture, and personal development.
Participants will also benefit from networking opportunities and interactive presentations designed to equip them with real-world strategies for success.
This year, the Leadership Institute will add two new sessions:
· AI Exploration: where participants will discover core concepts and hands-on tools while exploring how AI is transforming the world;
· Cyber Security Adventure: which offers an exhilarating journey into the realm of Cyber Security, focusing on mastering the art of protecting digital landscapes and uncovering thrilling tactics to outsmart cyber villains.
Topics will address critical areas such as change management, financial and fundraising skills, time management, workplace politics, and marketing and branding tools.
The NJBWC and Mercer County Community College inaugurated this innovative initiative earlier this year, bringing together a steering committee led by NJBWC founders, MCCC executives, and MCCC President Dr. Deborah Preston.
The program aims to equip participants with the tools to address real-time challenges, actualize their visions, and enhance their leadership effectiveness while building a robust pipeline of Black women leaders across various sectors in New Jersey.
MCCC President Debbie Preston said her enthusiasm for the partnership keeps growing.
“As we embark on the second year of this initiative, we remain committed to empowering women in leadership through intentional actions and unwavering support,” she said. “Together, we are creating a brighter future for the next generation of leaders.”
Co-founder Taraun Tice McKnight agreed.
“This program marks the start of a transformative journey for these exceptional women,” she said. “I’m proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to the profound influence they will have within their communities and professional spheres.”
Adrienne King, another co-founder, said the future is bright.
“These women have redefined what leadership looks like in every sector, proving that collaboration and determination can pave the way for progress” she said. “Their success is a testament to Black excellence, and we’re excited to continue this legacy with future cohorts.”
