Embarking on a successful career path often requires strategic preparation and expert guidance. Career preparation programs are designed to equip individuals with the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to thrive in their chosen fields. But who are the driving forces behind these transformative programs? Let’s delve into the world of career preparation and meet the exceptional team at [website name – inferring from context, but since not explicitly provided, I’ll keep it generic for now, if context were clearer, I would add it]. These leaders bring a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to fostering the next generation of professionals.
Joycelyn Morris Ph.D, Managing Director, College Programs
Dr. Joycelyn Morris leads the College Programs with over 14 years of professional experience, blending Wall Street acumen with a passion for nonprofit work. Holding a B.S. and MBA from Florida A&M University and a Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction from Florida International University, her academic foundation is as robust as her practical experience. Having started her career in wealth management at Deutsche Bank, Joycelyn transitioned to the nonprofit sector to dedicate her expertise to helping individuals, particularly people of color, realize their full potential. This commitment is further demonstrated in her role as Director of MBA Professional Development at Management Leadership for Tomorrow (MLT), where she prepares high-achieving MBA students of color for leadership roles. Her dedication extends to community service through organizations like Path to College and Girls II Women. Being selected for Leadership Florida’s Connect 11 Class highlights her recognized leadership and influence. Joycelyn’s diverse background in finance, education, and community engagement makes her uniquely positioned to understand and guide students through the complexities of career preparation.
Michelle Lilley, the Director for the Software Engineering/Technology sector, embodies excellence and dedication in the tech world. With a B.S. in Computer Engineering from Howard University (Cum Laude), Michelle’s technical expertise is undeniable. Her achievements, including being a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award Recipient and a Women We Admire Awardee for the 2022 Top 50 Women Leaders of Maryland, speak volumes about her impact and leadership in her field. Michelle’s focus on the technology sector within the career preparation program ensures that participants receive cutting-edge guidance and insights relevant to this rapidly evolving industry. Her passion for both technology and mentorship makes her an invaluable asset in preparing individuals for successful tech careers.
Atilah Claiborne, Director, Consulting sector
Atilah Claiborne directs the Consulting sector, bringing a decade of dynamic communications leadership in advisory consulting to the career preparation program. Her background with firms like EY and PwC, coupled with an MBA from Webster University and a B.S. in Journalism and Mass Communication from North Carolina A&T State University, provides a strong foundation in both business acumen and strategic communication. Atilah’s expertise lies in business transformation, project management, and strategic communication, particularly within the financial services industry. Her passion for diversity and inclusion further enriches her approach to career preparation, ensuring that the program is inclusive and prepares individuals from diverse backgrounds to excel in the consulting world. Atilah’s experience is crucial in guiding participants aiming for careers in the demanding and competitive consulting sector.
Jordan Kramer, leading the Financial Services sector, brings a wealth of experience in both entrepreneurship and finance to the career preparation program. An MBA (with Honors) from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a BA (with Distinction in All Subjects) from Cornell University underpin his expertise. Jordan’s experience includes running his own healthcare strategy and finance consulting business for five years and over ten years as a venture capital investor for Kaiser Permanente Ventures. His focus on healthcare information technology, services, and medical devices showcases his deep understanding of investment and business strategy. Prior roles as Director of Finance and Development for BUILD, a non-profit focused on entrepreneurship for under-resourced students, and as a strategy consultant at Bain & Company, further solidify his diverse and impactful career. Jordan’s extensive background in finance and business strategy makes him an ideal leader for guiding individuals into successful financial services careers.
April L. Smith, Director, Corporate Management sector
April L. Smith, the Director for the Corporate Management sector, infuses her lifelong passion for motivation and personal development into the career preparation program. With a Master of Religious Studies and an MBA in Marketing, April’s unique academic background complements her drive to connect individuals with their passions and purpose. Her focus on corporate management encompasses a broad spectrum of industries and roles, providing participants with versatile career preparation. April’s dedication to motivating individuals and aligning them with their professional goals makes her an inspiring leader in the program, particularly for those aspiring to corporate leadership positions.
In conclusion, a robust career preparation program is characterized by expert leadership and a comprehensive curriculum tailored to various industries. The team highlighted exemplifies the depth of experience and commitment necessary to effectively guide individuals towards successful and fulfilling careers. Their diverse backgrounds and sector-specific expertise ensure that participants receive well-rounded and relevant preparation for their chosen career paths.
