Advancing leaders. Driving equity.
Shaping systems.
Center for Equity
& Inclusive Leadership
We cultivate leaders, inform decision-making, and align institutions to advance measurable equity and sustainable progress across Chattanooga.
Why Leadership & Equity Matters
Sustainable progress requires aligned leadership, data-informed decision-making, and institutional accountability. The Center operates as a regional engine for strategy, collaboration, and measurable change.
Data-Driven Strategy
Using research and analysis to inform policy, organizational practice, and civic dialogue.
Executive Accountability
Embedding measurable equity practices into institutional frameworks
Leadership Pipeline
Developing emerging and executive leaders equipped to influence systems.
ULGC Young Professionals
E M E R G I N G L E A D E R S H I P N E T W O R K
Developing the Next Generation of Civic and Business Leaders
Equipping emerging professionals with leadership exposure, civic engagement opportunities, and meaningful community impact.
Civic engagement and service
Professional development
Leadership skill-building
Ambassadors of Urban League initiatives and events
IMPACT:
ULYP strengthens the leadership pipeline in Chattanooga by equipping professionals with the tools, relationships, and exposure needed to influence systems and serve their communities effectively.
H I G H - P O T E N T I A L L E A D E R S H I P D E V E L O P M E N T
Urban League Emerge Leadership Fellows
Emerging Leaders. Elevated Influence. Expanded Impact.
The Urban League Emerge Leadership Fellows program is designed to cultivate high-potential leaders who are committed to advancing equity, economic opportunity, and community transformation. Fellows engage in structured leadership development, exposure to civic and business leaders, and strategic conversations focused on systems-level impact.
The program strengthens participants’ ability to lead within their industries, advocate effectively, and contribute to long-term regional growth.
Leadership development workshops
Executive-level exposure and mentorship
Civic and policy education
Collaborative cohort experience
Capstone or impact-driven engagement component
OUTCOME:
Graduates of the program emerge with expanded networks, sharpened leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of how to influence systems that drive economic and social progress.
Inclusion by Design Leadership Program
E M E R G I N G L E A D E R S H I P N E T W O R K
Building Inclusive Leadership at the Executive Level
The Inclusion By Design (IBD) Executive Leadership Program equips senior leaders with accountability frameworks, inclusive strategy alignment, and measurable benchmarks that strengthen organizational performance.
Leadership strategy alignment
Organizational culture assessment
Data-informed equity practices
IMPACT:
Participating organizations strengthen workforce retention, expand talent pipelines, and improve organizational performance by embedding inclusive leadership principles into their systems and structures.
R E S E A R C H & S Y S T E M S C H A N G E
Data. Dialogue. Direction. A signature initiative assessing social, economic, and civic conditions impacting Black residents, producing actionable recommendations and measurable benchmarks for progress.
Comprehensive data analysis
Policy and systems-level recommendations
Strategic collaboration and accountability tracking
Community leaders, policymakers, funders, employers, and residents committed to advancing equity and measurable progress in Chattanooga.
