American Express Leadership Academy Testimonials

When working at American Express 10 years ago, I remember attending a town hall meeting and learning about the anticipated future demand for nonprofit leadership talent. Ten years later, I am enrolled in the American Express Leadership Academy at the ASU Lodestar Center and in the role of President & CEO of the Arizona Council on Economic Education, a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization. The Academy is everything I expected and more. I would have never developed meaningful relationships so quickly with so many nonprofit organizations as well as foundations if it weren’t for the Academy. The program has made a profound difference in terms of our organization’s strategic planning, relationship building and fundraising. It was a transformational experience for me personally. Thank you, American Express Leadership Academy at the ASU Lodestar Center!

Elena Zee President & CEO, Arizona Council on Economic Education

From informative seminars by leaders in the nonprofit sector to individual executive coaching, the American Express Leadership Academy at the ASU Lodestar Center has helped me grow as a professional beyond my expectations. My favorite part by far is all the people I’ve met through the program. I look forward to continuing these professional relationships and connections well after the program ends.

Julie Euber CEO, SARSEF

I have learned the importance of self-learning and time for mindfulness. By far, my time with the executive coach has been invaluable. It has been an opportunity for guided self-discovery that I normally wouldn’t have time for. My interpersonal skills and conflict management with my team has drastically improved and has increased my visibility as a leader both inside and outside of the organization. I continue to champion this program in the community because of the wonderful feedback on my growth.

Nicoletta Fasano Digital Communications Manager, First Things First

Being in the AmEx Academy helped me understand how to balance my personal and professional life while still being able to focus on the priorities that are important to me. This program impacted me by positioning me for my next career move. The program also helped me realize a lot about myself and how I should manage my personal and professional path.

Demitria Griggs President, Angels on Patrol

The coaching opportunity was the most impactful! I have grown professionally in this year and I attribute that to (coaching). I have gained so much and I have received feedback from my supervisors/peers/staff that they have noticed my growth and development. I can truly say I’ve applied the tools/skills I’ve learned. As I complete the program, I will be promoted into a director position. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this academy.

Amy Nunez Director of Clinical Applications and Training, Mountain Park Health Center

Thank you for this incredible opportunity. This network of professionals and connections to career insight has transformed my path and provided opportunities and insight that I can use for this next stage in my development.

Nicole Underwood Director of Community Engagement, Roosevelt Row CDC

The program gave me greater understanding of the nonprofit sector and helped me assess and take the necessary steps to advance my career. My executive coach helped me identify opportunity and held the door for me to take the steps to receive a promotion.

Maria Jesus Cervantes Director of Public Affairs and International Relations, Chicanos Por La Causa

The program gave me better knowledge and self-awareness of my own skills and strengths – and the ability to better communicate and facilitate teamwork to drive results. It has really helped me think through what I’m good at and how that intersects with my future goals and plans. I really appreciate the investment that AmEx makes in nonprofit leadership and development. I would never have had these kinds of opportunities otherwise.

Megan Sterling Executive Director of Community Relations, Tempe Union High School District