National Black MBA Association 41st Annual Conference

The National Black MBA Association 41st Annual Conference delivered another value-packed experience for its members, college students, jobseekers, and corporate partners. Over 10,000 people descended upon the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, TX. As a first time attendee representing the NBMBAA NJ Chapter, I was awestruck by the degree of passion the members exuded and the active engagement by its corporate partners. Please allow me to recap three of many incredible experiences I had at the conference: 1 - It was great to witness Jesse Tyson pass the torch to Kay Wallace, the new President & CEO of the NBMBAA. 2 - Kim Jenkins Manigault, CPA, delivered an inspiring talk about KeyBank’s diversity and inclusion (D&I) efforts. The theme of her speech was, “Bring your authentic self.” What I found most refreshing were the personal anecdotes she shared on the practical application of D&I in the workplace. 3 - Brett Biggs, CFO for Walmart and Tim Sweeney, President, Global Retail Markets for Liberty Mutual Insurance session titled, “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There: How to Break Through to Senior Leadership” was phenomenal! Both of these thought leaders offered sage advice and candidate responses. Have a great weekend! hashtag#diversityinclusion

LinkedIn Global - Networking

This past week, I had the good fortune to meet several LinkedIn influencers at LinkedIn Global. It was exciting to interact with such a diverse and passionate group of individuals from all over the country.

The panel discussions were phenomenal and delivered valuable insight on many levels! Also, I had meaningful one-on-one conversations, made new friends, and deepened existing relationships with several of my LinkedIn connections. I was truly touched and inspired by this experience!

Moreover, a lasting impression from this experience is my admiration for those persons who have a natural ability to inspire others. Some inspired by the words they spoke, others by genuine acts of kindness, and the sincere desire to help others without expectation. I met numerous people with these qualities at this event, including Shaneé Moret, Judi Fox, Joe Apfelbaum, and Olga Kirshenbaum to name a few.

Keep inspiring my friends; your efforts are making a difference. The pleasure was all mine, and I look forward to growing with you all. Have a successful week!

#linkedinglobal #nyc

Speed Recruiting Event at Rutgers University

Great Wednesday evening at the Rutgers Business School as the National Black MBA Association, New Jersey Chapter, hosted a “Speed Recruiting” event in collaboration with the Rutgers Black & Hispanic MBA Association. The event took place at the Rutgers Business School Newark and New Brunswick building in the heart of downtown Newark, New Jersey. Major companies from a diverse range of business sectors were present, including BASF, ETS, Nasdaq, RB, S&P Global, Target, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. The representatives for these organizations had an opportunity to engage with some of Rutgers most exceptional talent. Special thanks to Sonya Ruffin, MBA, PHR and to all that participated. Also, best wishes to the students, as they get ready to begin the next phase of their journey. Go Scarlet Knights! hashtag#rutgers hashtag#education hashtag#newjersey

Private Screening

What makes New York City such a special place is that there’s always something cool to do. Whether it’s hanging out in Time Square, attending a Broadway play, or dining at an authentic restaurant, there’s no place like The Big Apple! With that in mind, I had a terrific evening attending a private screening of International Award Winning Filmmaker Tricia Brouk latest documentaries. You're Gorgeous I Love Your Shirt, provides an inside look at bullying and mental health. Tonya Harris and her daughter Lyndsey share their compelling story of how so many parents are unaware of what's happening in school with their child. Next, we watched how Buddhist Chaplain Justin Von Bujdoss is changing the culture around spiritual care at Riker's Island by teaching meditation to the Correction Officers and the inmates. Thank you, Tonya, Lyndsey, and Justin! I was touched and inspired by each of your stories as depicted by Tricia and her fantastic team. Also, I was appreciative of the talented Marla Schultz, standup comedian and speaker, contribution to the first documentary. Her blend of shared experiences and a bit of humor was invaluable. Indeed, a delightful evening! hashtag

#nyc Bruce Cryer

Cultivating Meaningful Relationships on LinkedIn

Since I began giving LinkedIn some energy back in Jan 2019, the people that I’ve met from all corners of the world has been overwhelming. That has afforded me the chance to develop new relationships that I may have never come across.

On that premise, I connected with Sheeba, a talented artist from Dubai. During a recent chat, I learned that some of her art is on display at the NYA Art Center in New York City, where I happen to reside. Already intrigued by the art she’s shared on LinkedIn, I was thrilled to head over to the art center to get a firsthand look at her work and to support a connection.

By doing so, I gained a greater appreciation for her artistic abilities. I also spoke to a few observers at the gallery, and they were complimentary of her work. This kind of positive feedback is no easy feat in the Big Apple as New Yorkers are known for being harsh critics. I've affixed a few photos to give you a visual representation of the art center and how her work is displayed.

Final analysis, I learned something new about art from Sheeba, which inspired me to visit the NYA Art Center in support of her. So, I encourage you to cultivate meaningful relationships on this fantastic platform, and embrace the new experiences it may bring!

#art #passion #anthonysledge

Overcoming His Fear

“Fear isn't an excuse to come to a standstill. It's the impetus to step up and strike.” –Arthur Ashe

Dee, a friend of mine, recently shared a story about overcoming his fear of public speaking. It was so compelling that I asked Dee if I could write about it; and without hesitation, he said, “Do what you do!”



Dee has a unique ability to do impersonations. Most notable include that of John Travolta, Mike Tyson, and Charles Barkley. Throughout his journey, he’s often dazzled family, friends, and colleagues with his gift. Roughly 5-years ago, a former boss was so enamored with Dee’s talent that he asked him to perform at a national meeting to spice it up. Although mortified, Dee didn’t want to say no, so he agreed.

On D-day, the intensity of his anxiety was tremendous as evident with his hands sweating profusely. In a moment of fearful creative brilliance, he clutches a perspiring bottle of water to mask his sweaty palms as he started shaking hands just before ShowTime. The moment of truth finally arrived! Dee walks onto the stage; fear be damned, and then dives into his impersonation skit, fittingly titled, “Going for Life.” When it was over, he received a standing ovation! Boom!

“Limits, like fear, is often an illusion.” –Michael Jordan

#motivation #passion #anthonysledge