At The Leading Lady, we are dedicated to empowering minority women executives to thrive in their careers while embracing their authentic selves. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with navigating leadership in a corporate world often dominated by masculine traits. Our mission is to provide a supportive platform that offers inspiring stories, expert advice, and actionable strategies to help you achieve your professional goals.
Our Vision
We envision a world where minority women executives lead with confidence, strength, and authenticity. By sharing valuable insights and fostering a community of like-minded professionals, we aim to inspire excellence and empower women to break through barriers and reach new heights in their careers.
Why We Started
The small percentage of African American/Black women in executive leadership compared to the larger number of qualified candidates in the U.S. workforce is cause for both alarm and action. With changing leadership demographics and the confirmed advantages of workplace diversity, companies stand to benefit immensely by including more African American/Black women on their senior leadership teams. The Leading Lady was inspired by the need to address this disparity and provide a set of critical examples to guide and inspire minority women toward executive leadership.
Meet Dr. Cassandra
Cassandra T. Spann, PhD is the visionary behind The Leading Lady. An Organizational Leadership Psychologist, she specializes in advancing women in leadership, with a particular focus on African American/Black women. With over two decades of experience in understanding human behavior in the workplace, Dr. Spann brings unparalleled expertise to the real-world impact of leadership on ethical and cultural processes.
Her research, grounded in authentic leadership and Black feminist thought, delves into the lived experiences of African American/Black women in senior or executive roles across the United States. These findings—breaking through limitations, garnering support, overcoming challenges, and implementing strategies—offer invaluable guidance for other African American/Black women aiming for leadership positions. Though her research focuses on African American/Black women, it provides practical advice and insights beneficial to all minorities and women striving for career advancement.
As a Social Science Researcher, Dr. Spann excels in creating robust qualitative design frameworks, ensuring research trustworthiness, and using innovative mediation strategies to uphold data integrity. Her role as an Organizational Leadership Psychologist involves developing corporate educational plans that boost productivity and success in areas such as diversity management, work stress, implementation management, and conflict navigation.
Dr. Spann’s skills in effective communication, problem-solving, relationship-building, and crisis support drive positive change within organizations. As a Creative Solutions Strategist, she values strategic change management and organizational systems, planning initiatives that ensure sustainable growth.
Passionate about professional development, Dr. Spann guides both community and corporate leaders in achieving socially responsible transformation. Through her extensive experience and knowledge, she inspires profound personal growth, empowering women to excel and succeed without compromising their values.
Driven by a deep enthusiasm for helping women of color achieve leadership success while maintaining their feminine character, Dr. Spann founded this blog to provide a nurturing and insightful space. She believes in the power of authentic leadership and is dedicated to supporting women in their journey to becoming influential, confident, and respected leaders.
What We Offer…
Inspiring Content: Articles, interviews, and resources designed to provide the tools and inspiration you need to excel in your career and lead with grace and effectiveness.
Empowering Stories: Real-life experiences from successful minority women executives who have navigated the challenges of corporate leadership.
Expert Advice: Guidance from industry leaders and professionals on how to balance femininity with leadership and thrive in a masculine environment.
Practical Strategies: Actionable tips and techniques to help you harness your strength, embrace your unique qualities, and empower yourself and others.
Join Our Community
Becoming a part of The Leading Lady community means gaining access to a wealth of knowledge, support, and inspiration. Whether you are just starting your leadership journey or are an experienced executive, our content is tailored to help you navigate the complexities of corporate life with confidence and elegance. Together, we can inspire and empower each other to achieve excellence and make a lasting impact in our professional lives.