BUFFALO, N.Y. —  The Impact Leadership Program is a new collaboration between the University at Buffalo School of Management’s Center for Leadership and Global Impact and Black Achievers Inc. that will build the next generation of leaders in Buffalo.

The inaugural cohort began Sept. 10 and brings together professionals, entrepreneurs, community advocates and changemakers who have demonstrated a commitment to service and leadership. Over the course of four weeks, participants will engage in leadership development experiences focused on strengthening organizations and communities throughout Western New York.

“This program extends beyond professional development. It represents a shared commitment to building stronger connections between the UB School of Management and the communities we serve,” says Ananth Iyer, dean of the school. “It is a partnership built on collaboration rather than instruction. We can provide resources, expertise and opportunities, while participants bring equally valuable experiences, insights and perspectives that will help shape the future of the program.”

That approach resonated with Herbert (Herb) Bellamy Jr. of Black Achievers, who says it’s important for the program to remain rooted in community needs while leveraging the strengths of both organizations.

“From the beginning, discussions focused on leadership development as well as ensuring that the voices and experiences of community members remain at the center of the initiative,” says Bellamy. “That collective effort is important because while leadership is often viewed through an individual lens, lasting community impact rarely comes from a single person working alone. It is created through partnerships, trust, and shared purpose.”

Gerry Murak, CEL ’91, EMBA ’96, principal at Murak & Associates LLC, spoke at the program launch and told attendees that the Impact Leadership Program represents the continuation of relationships that have evolved over decades. He also encouraged cohort members to think boldly about their potential and to remember that meaningful change often happens one step at a time.

“The roots of this partnership were established through leadership and diversity initiatives years earlier,” says Murak. “Friendships, conversations and a desire to create positive change ultimately helped bring the program to life.”

Dorothy Siaw-Asamoah, BS ’03, MBA ’05, PhD ’12, faculty director of the Center for Leadership and Global Impact, welcomed the initiative as a bridge for local learning that empowers leaders to think globally to drive transformative results in an interconnected world.

“Through this partnership, participants will gain new tools and perspectives while building relationships that extend beyond the classroom,” says Siaw-Asamoah. “This cohort will also help shape the future direction of the program, ensuring it remains responsive to the needs and aspirations of Buffalo’s emerging leaders.”

Black Achievers Inc. is a Buffalo-based organization dedicated to recognizing, connecting and developing Black professionals and community leaders. Through mentorship, networking and leadership opportunities, the organization works to strengthen communities and expand pathways for advancement throughout the region.

The UB School of Management’s Center for Leadership and Global Impact develops leaders through professional development via experiential learning and community engagement initiatives. The center connects students, professionals, and organizations through programs designed to create meaningful impact in workplaces and communities.