The Excellence in Leadership Program is a professional development program for emerging and established leaders.
The Excellence in Leadership Program (ELP), formerly called the Emerging Leaders Program, strengthens critical leadership and management capabilities, equipping participants to elevate their impact - driving initiatives, leading teams, and stepping into the next level of leadership with greater effectiveness and readiness.
Who should apply?
Black leaders and their allies who are strong individual contributors or early to mid-level managers are encouraged to apply. Applicants must have a minimum of 3 years of professional work experience in corporate, nonprofit, government, or entrepreneurial sectors. A Bachelor’s degree or 5 years of additional, equivalent, and relevant experience is required. Applicants should have demonstrated leadership and a strong desire to achieve professional excellence.
This program is open to professionals from all ethnic and racial backgrounds in accordance with our Statement of Assurance.
When is the program?
January - June 2027
Sessions are held once a month either on one full day or two consecutive half days.
Where is this located?
Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business | Pittsburgh, PA
Sessions are held in person on CMU’s campus. Additional learning will occur online.
How much does it cost?
$10,000
Limited scholarships are available to participants who qualify.
Academic Instruction
Participants will learn from faculty from Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business and other top business schools, as well as renowned industry experts.
Alumni Mentoring
Participants are thoughtfully paired with an Alumni Mentor from one of our executive programs.
Peer Networking
Participants will have the opportunity to expand their professional networks by developing relationships with fellow cohort members as well as TALI stakeholders.
Alumni Engagement
Upon program completion, participants will receive ongoing support and connectivity for continued personal and professional growth by joining the distinguished TALI® Alumni Network.
What differentiates this program?
Designed as an interactive, applied learning experience, the program combines practical skill-building, mentorship, peer learning, and real-world application - equipping participants to lead with confidence and manage priorities while navigating the complexities of today’s workplace.
Course Content Overview
Through a curriculum focused on leadership presence, communication, team dynamics, innovation, and work strategies, participants gain immediately applicable skills that strengthen performance and expand their influence.
Vision & Purpose
Gain clarity and take focused actions to align your career goals with your core values; enlist support and resources to get there; intentionally leverage mentoring and networking.
Authentic Leadership & Executive Presence
Define your brand and develop personal strategies to effectively convey who you are and the differentiated professional value you deliver.
Emotional Intelligence
Learn how to understand, manage, and utilize emotions effectively to inspire teams, navigate complex social dynamics, and influence business decisons and outcomes.
Financial Decision Making
Learn how accounting principles and financial statements enable leaders to make informed, data-driven decisions and communicate effectively using the language of business.
AI for Business Communications
Explore how generative AI tools can streamline processes for creating and revising content, personalize interactions, and improve overall communication efficiency.
Innovation & Creative Problem Solving
Gain insight into effectively leveraging innovation and creativity to navigate challenges to positively impact personal and professional goals.
Continuing the Leadership Journey
Participants who successfully complete the program receive a Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business Certificate and join the distinguished TALI® Alumni Network. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to earn Tepper Executive Education Units (TEUs) - these can count towards the Carnegie Mellon University Certificate in Executive
Leadership (+AI).
2025 Cohort Member
ELP Alumni[This program] has equipped me with the tools to set meaningful goals and develop a strategic plan that holds me accountable for pursuing leadership opportunities. I recognize the importance of gratitude in this process and aim to contribute to my employer and the community in which I live.
Excellence in Leadership Program Presenting Sponsors
TALI's Statement of Assurance.
The Advanced Leadership Institute (TALI) welcomes all individuals to participate in and attend TALI® Leadership Programs as outlined in the organization's Statement of Assurance.