Since the launch of BBLI the percentage of Black members serving on Central Florida board of directors has increased to 17 percent in 2022. That percentage was 11 percent before BBLI started
After a successful first year for the Black Boardroom Leadership Institute (BBLI), the Orlando Economic Partnership is now accepting applications for the 2023 leadership track.
BBLI is designed to address the diversity gap amongst Orlando’s nonprofit board of directors and foster an atmosphere where minority leaders have a voice at the table, not just a seat on the roster.
Made possible through the support of an anonymous fundholder at the Central Florida Foundation, BBLI’s 2023 Leadership track, which begins on June 29, will be comprised of 20 Black leaders on full scholarship.
Individuals interested in participating in the 2023 Leadership track can now apply by visiting Orlando.org/BBLI.
The goal of the leadership program track is to develop a pipeline of Black leaders and create pathways to positions of power on local nonprofit boards. Over six months, participants will gain foundational knowledge in board governance, discover motivators and cultural qualities to develop an authentic leadership style, and use those discoveries to lead with impact on local non-profit boards.
This life-changing experience taught me things about myself that I will be able to use in my community. If given the opportunity, I recommend that everyone experience a space where they can be themselves and grow authentically.
Curtis Proctor,
Director of Development, Barry Law School said.
Since the launch of BBLI the percentage of Black members serving on Central Florida board of directors has increased to 17 percent in 2022. That percentage was 11 percent before BBLI started, and while we can’t take full credit for it improving, we are proud to catalyze Orlando’s collaborative ethos and fuel regional leadership and equity in our region.
It was an amazing experience that opened my eyes to the value that diverse perspectives and engagement can play on the impact of an organization’s board. It was an opportunity to connect with professional peers who are passionate about creating that impact.
Meghann Sellers,
Senior Executive Assistant, President’s Office,
Seminole State College of Florida
“The program also made me aware of all the great work that local nonprofits are doing in my own backyard and their need for our involvement and advocacy,” Sellers said.
BBLI consists of two, six-month programs, 1) the Nonprofit track, for organizations interested in creating an inclusive environment on their board of directors, and 2) the Leadership track, for Black leaders looking to serve authentically as a board member.
Black local leaders, whether emerging or experienced, who demonstrate a passion for civic and social impact and aspire to develop authentic leadership characteristics are encouraged to apply. Selections will be made by the BBLI Advisory Council based on the strength of candidates’ applications across various categories including leadership growth, program commitment, board of directors’ interest and others.
To learn more about the program and the application process, register for the Informational Zoom session on April 18, 11 a.m. The deadline to apply is May 12. For questions, contact Nisha Brice at Nisha.Brice@orlando.org.
About Leadership Orlando
With over 7,000 graduates, Leadership Orlando is Central Florida’s only community leadership program that spans across the entire seven-county region and is the largest program in America, offering multiple classes each year. For more, visit LeadershipOrlando.org
About Central Florida Foundation
Central Florida Foundation stewards philanthropic dollars on behalf of individuals, families, and nonprofits. We partner with people who are determined to make a difference in their community. Knowing that true change demands more than dollars and cents, we foster collaboration, fuel ideas, and spearhead the innovation that will transform our region for good. Learn more at www.cffound.org.
