GOVERNING BOARD

Champion the mission – Ensure the Academy stays true to its vision, goals, and values while guiding our work toward measurable impact.

Provide strategic guidance – Provide insight on current trends and opportunities, help define outcomes and metrics, provide program recommendations, and approve key activities that drive continued growth.

Ensure financial stewardship – Review and approve the annual budget and review investment and commitments to ensure alignment with Academy goals.

Support fundraising & advocacy – Actively support fundraising efforts through recommendations and efforts that expand board outreach, partnerships and visibility.

Engage with fellows – Participate in fellow connection activities (board engagement day, leadership ladder), offering wisdom, guidance and authentic connections with fellows on their leadership journey.

Our Governing Board plays a vital role in shaping the Academy’s impact and legacy. Their leadership ensures that we remain mission-driven, accountable and positioned for long-term success. The Governing Board is composed of current or retired C-suite and executive leaders who participate in the following activities:

  • DeWayne Allen

    Strategic Capture Executive,
    RTX/Raytheon

    Board Alumni Representative

  • Seth Bennett

    Chief Marketing Officer
    Hornets Sports & Entertainment

  • Tanya Blackmon

    President and Founder
    Auspen Consulting

  • Kobi Brinson

    Partner
    Winston & Strawn LLP, Charlotte

    Governing Board Co-Chair

  • LaShaun Carter

    Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer
    Mecklenburg County

    Governing Board Co-Chair

  • Rob Harrington

    Shareholder
    Robinson Bradshaw

  • Nate Hogan

    President
    The CLT Alliance Foundation

  • Chris Jackson

    President & CEO Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont

  • Al McMillian

    Vice President, Head of Compliance
    AvidXchange, Inc.

  • Machell W. Mims

    Retired SVP Human Resources
    Lowe's Companies Inc.

  • LaQuisha Parks

    Vice President Energy Services and Corporate Communications, Energy United

    Board Alumni Representative

  • Angela H. Woods

    Chief Operating Officer
    Crossnore Communities for Children