Recently, while attending the 2011 Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce’s leadership summit, rolling out caught up with Alethea Session, president of the Phoenix chapter of the National Black MBA Association. Here is what she had to say. –al weems
Share with our readers the benefits of being a member of the National Black MBA Association.
We are the conduits between our members and our corporate partners. We introduce our members to our corporate partners, so our members can have an opportunity to have interviews in person and avoid certain obstacles that they may encounter when applying online for various positions. To summarize what we do, we bring access from both sides of the pendulum to find the right match between corporations and MBA members.
What compelled you to pursue your MBA?
I pursued my MBA because of the limitations I recognized I had at my company with just a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting. Since I didn’t have my CPA, I needed another credential to propel me forward in my career. I looked at the investment. In my opinion, it was worth it. So, I did it.
How has the perception of you changed within the professional community, as a result of having earned your MBA?
The perception is that my employer can rely on my decision-making since I went to school to get a wider scope of business. They can rely on my information and my advice on projects that I worked on. I had credentials now that confirmed my skill sets could be utilized in their organization.
What would you like to achieve while president of the Phoenix Chapter of the NBMBAA?
I want to connect with the Phoenix business community. Phoenix is a very philanthropic city that supports many different causes. We know that nonprofit organizations are created because the government can’t step in and solve every problem that society has. The NBMBAA is a nonprofit organization, and my goal as president of the Phoenix chapter of the NBMBAA is to collaborate with local businesses and other nonprofit organizations that focus on education, career development, leadership and our lifestyle.
For people considering becoming a member of NBMBAA, what would you like to say to them?
First of all, if you aren’t getting the leadership skills in your current position, by sitting on our board or being on a committee, you will have an opportunity to sharpen those skills. You will work on this committee over a 12-month period. As a member, we embrace you, bring you in and share the wisdom
