In a sea of over 1,000 black mid-level managers anxiously awaiting the start of the 25^th Annual Mid-level Managers’ Symposium (MLMS), one participant described the experience like being in “Wakanda,” the fictional African country representing exceptional black achievement. To be among so many black achievers left attendees awestruck, inspired and motivated by being in the presence of other progressive and likeminded individuals.

The agenda of the two-day professional development seminar provided actionable takeaways from the opening general session, the ELC member panel, industry dinners, structured breakout sessions, all of which concluded nicely with an uplifting closing session.

Where much is given, much is required.

While participants made great connections and gained new knowledge, Robert F. Smith left participants with a call to action to hire black interns to help strengthen the pipeline of talent in corporate America. “We have to develop people, practices, and on-ramps at every level. There is a need for more talented people,” Smith said.

The ELC’s Institute for Leadership Development & Research invites you to plan now or identify deserving candidates for the 26^th Annual Mid-Level Managers’ Symposium on October 14-15, 2020, at the Marriott Marquis Washington DC.