“To Form a More Perfect Union…” was the theme of the 5^th consecutive Networking Reception on September 17 hosted by The Executive Leadership Council (ELC), Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity (The Boulé) and The Links Incorporated during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 45^th Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D. C. Skadden Arps generously made its rooftop patio overlooking The White House available for the occasion and ELC Board Secretary Valerie Lewis of Safeway, a member of The ELC, The Links, and an Archousa of Sigma Pi Phi, chaired the event.

Members of the three host organizations welcomed Members of Congress in the Congressional Black Caucus including Representatives Joyce Beatty (OH-3), Chaka Fattah (PA-2), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Robert Scott (VA-3) and other Washington thought leaders. Skadden Partner Mitchell S. Ettinger, who leads Skadden’s Washington, D.C. office, welcomed more than 200 guests gathered for the reception under a clear and sunny sky. Leaders of the three host organizations, including Links National President Glenda Newell-Harris, MD, ELC President and CEO Ronald C. Parker, and Sigma Pi Phi Grand Sire Archon James O. Cole, Esq., delivered remarks highlighting their organizations’ individual and collective efforts to develop and advance black leadership.

The ELC conducts leadership development through its Institute for Leadership Development & Research. The ELC has awarded hundreds of scholarships and made Community Impact grants to organizations such as LEAD, INROADS and North Carolina Central University. [LR1] The Links, Incorporated has made million dollar grants to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, among others. Sigma Pi Phi, representing black men of distinction, has included among its members Former Attorney General of the United States Eric H. Holder, Jr. and the late Martin Luther King, Jr. The fraternity recently celebrated its 111^th Anniversary in London with participation by members of The ELC.

Each organization serves as public policy advocates for strengthening black leadership and communities throughout the world.

The ELC CEO Ronald Parker (Center) with (Left to Right) The Links Inc. National President Dr. Glenda Newell-Harris, Rep. Chaka Fattah, The ELC Board of Directors Secretary Valerie Lewis, Rep. Joyce Beatty and Grand Sire Archon James Cole of Sigma Pi Phi.

Rep. Robert Scott, Rep. Babara Lee and Former U.S. Senator Roland W. Burris enjoying our Networking Reception.

The ELC’s own Board Chair Carla Harris of Morgan Stanley and Board Secretary Valerie Lewis of Safeway Inc. at the Newtorking Reception.