Leadership

Conference Co-Chairs

“MBA students are the future executives of tomorrow and we have a unique opportunity to create and capture value with these promising leaders. I am spearheading the upcoming DEI Summit because DEI is a business priority and part of the strategy, not just an idea for change. We can shape this potential to benefit all in an equitable way. I most look forward to the fruitful networking that will ignite ongoing dialogue on the important topics discussed during the formal programming.”

Bailey Wilton
Co-Chair, Harvard Business School

“I believe this Summit is an amazing opportunity to fill the gap that exists within most business schools’ curricula and what students actually need to learn to be effective business leaders. There is a real need for conversations to be happening around DEI on MBA campuses, and so it is excited to be a part of the team to help make those happen. I am really looking forward to the opportunity to continue conversations following the summit with other students interested in furthering DEI at our campuses.”

Aku Acquaye
School Lead, Kellogg School of Management

“As a woman of color who has not always had the privilege to be one of many on a team, I understand the importance of fostering spaces in which everyone feels welcome, valued, and heard. And, as such, wanted to be a part of an initiative that would encourage introspection and discussion around how to go about this not only at our graduate institutions, but beyond it as well. I am looking forward to connecting with other individuals on Kellogg’s campus who value this work as much as me!”

Natalia Alvarez Diaz
School Lead, Darden School of Business

“I chose to be involved with the conference because being a part of the conference’s planning committee was one of the most rewarding experiences of my first year at business school, and I’m passionate about engaging in meaningful conversations about the role that business should play in making the world a more equitable place. I am most excited for the chance to meet students from other schools who share my passions!”

Jasmine Joda
School Lead, Tuck School of Business

“I loved the opportunity to collaborate with other schools to move the needle on what diversity, equity and inclusion looks like across our institutions and as we leave our programs. I’m looking forward to all of the wonderful speakers! I think it’ll be invaluable to hear about tangible experiences.”

Andrea Madu
School Lead, The Wharton School

“As a black woman, and first-generation Nigerian immigrant, I have often been made to feel like I don’t belong in the spaces I occupy. I am passionate about inclusive leadership, breaking down barriers to equity, and creating spaces where difference is seen as an asset and where people can truly lead as their authentic selves. I’m excited about the opportunity to host these discussions and to collaborate across schools with some truly amazing leaders. I look forward to hearing from conference speakers and hosting in-person events after a virtual year!”

Reetika Purohit
School Lead, Harvard Business School 

“DEI is an integral part of a company’s strategy for long-term success and value creation, and it is absolutely essential for business leaders to be well-educated on this topic. I got involved with the DEI Summit because it is an area I am extremely passionate about both professionally and personally. I am looking forward to getting future business leaders across several MBA programs together for important conversations about creating a positive difference in the workplace!”

Karan Sandhu
School Lead, Kellogg School of Management

“I was excited by the prospect of leaders from across the top MBA programs in the country coming together to make a difference and wanted to be a part of it. Together, we can continue this much-needed conversation and highlight the need for diversity, equity, and inclusivity at all levels.”

Becky Timmons
School Lead, Tuck School of Business

“I was so inspired by the first DEI Summit, which was virtual and still so powerful, so I really wanted to help establish it as a tradition. I look forward to building momentum behind DE&I among future business leaders across the country that we can bring into our careers and beyond!”

Shivangi Gera
Content Co-Lead, Wharton

“Breaking gender stereotypes myself by being the first female sales manager for an alcobev company in India, gave me the courage to empower others like me and continue on this journey embracing more conversations around DEI. I am looking forward to understanding DEI truly beyond the buzzwords and how evolved those conversations are.”

Devu Nair
Content Co-Lead, Tuck School of Business

“As we navigate our post-MBA roles as people, team, and organization leaders, it’s vitally important that we all understand the diverse experiences and perspectives those we collaborate with are coming from. Business schools haven’t quite caught up to address this need in the curriculum, so I believe the Summit fills that very important gap. I’m looking forward to meeting like-minded MBAs who are passionate about DEI in the workplace and society!”

Yongmei Hu
Operation Co-Lead, The Wharton School

“Growing up in a migrated ethnic minority family with a Yi father and Titeban Mother, I have been indulged in splendid cultures and developed an open-mindset and grateful attitude towards diversity. I aspire to carry forward this spirit of diversity at Wharton, and feel excited to join this cross-school DEI event. I am looking forward to meeting fellow MBA students, exchanging ideas, sharing experiences and forming an outlook, together to promote diversity in the MBA program and in the future professional field.”

Peter Nwaoba
Operations Co-Lead, Darden School of Business

“I decided to get involved because I had previously worked in Operations in my last role and wanted to contribute to a cause I am passionate about in DEI. Additionally, I am very excited about working in a multi-school format and meeting and learning from individuals who are equally looking to make a difference. Looking forward to talking with some of the best thought leaders on DEI at this year’s conference.”

Zoddy Imoisili
Marketing Co-Lead, The Wharton School

“I decided to get involved with the DEI Summit for two reasons: First, I serve as VP of Diversity for Cluster 1 at the Wharton School and was looking for additional ways to be involved in creating inclusive communities. Second, I have been interested in DEI work though my life but even more recently worked on initiatives through my last job. Being able to lead the marketing efforts was a way to bring more people into the conversation across the next generation of business leaders!”

Pranita Sadavarte
Marketing Co-Lead, Darden School of Business

“Having been the only woman sales manager in the entire sales team network in a male dominated industry, I am aware about the challenges women often face at work. I am passionate about advancing these difficult conversations and taking the right steps in correcting them. After seeing the success of last year’s summit, I was drawn to the idea of being able to be a part of the leadership team to advance the cause and taking the right steps in making workplace more inclusive for everyone.”