Our History
The Leadership Consortium (TLC), a 501(c)(3) non-profit, was founded in 1999 and incorporated in 2002 to empower the African American community through education, professional training, and career development. Led by Michael Kelly (Founder, President & CEO), Dr. Sonya Pearson (Vice President & Secretary), Jerry McPherson (Treasurer), and Bertrand Russell, Jr. (Fiduciary Agent), TLC has launched several key programs.
1999
Community Alliance for Black Student Support
Founded in 1999 and formalized in 2001, cabs, in partnership with Arizona State University, enhanced the recruitment and retention of African American students through scholarships, networking, and leadership programs. It later evolved into the ASU student-led San-ko-fa Leadership Institute.
2001
The Arizona Black Film Showcase
The Arizona Black Film Showcase was created in 2001 by Joanna DeShay. The Arizona Black Film Showcase celebrated Black filmmakers and educated youth on filmmaking through an annual showcase and a film boot camp, running until 2011.
2004
Linking Sports and the Community (LCS)
Launched in 2004, this annual event created by Denise Meridith, educated teens about the limited chances of becoming professional athletes and highlighted dynamic career opportunities in sports-related fields.
2006
Arizona Black Expo
2014
First TLC Delegation to Congressional Black Caucus
In 2014, under Michael Kelly’s leadership, TLC led Arizona’s first delegation to the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Annual Legislative Conference, supported by then-Councilwoman Kate Gallego. TLC continues to cultivate leaders of color, enabling hundreds to engage with the CBC and upholding its mission to develop future leaders.
2018
Black Brown and College Bound Program
Initiated in 2018, this program aims to increase scholarship opportunities for African American and Hispanic students through a partnership with College Depot and the Greater Phoenix Area Delta Beta Omega Chapter.
