The Black Corporate Board Readiness (BCBR) program began as a response to the need for greater representation of diverse leaders in corporate boardrooms. Co-founders Thane Kreiner, Ph.D., and Dennis Lanham, both committed to fostering social justice and sustainable change, drew from their roles at Santa Clara University—a Jesuit institution in Silicon Valley. Their collaboration built on shared experience leading impactful university centers and their belief in collective action for social equity.
In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened awareness of systemic racism, Thane and Dennis recognized the significant underrepresentation of Black professionals on corporate boards. Despite the high qualifications of many Black leaders, only 4% of Russell 3000 board directors were Black, and over a third of S&P 500 companies lacked Black board members. A solution inspired by Santa Clara University’s Women’s Corporate Board Readiness (WCBR) program—a successful mentorship-driven initiative—emerged as the model for BCBR.
The urgency to act solidified following George Floyd’s murder in May 2020. By June, outreach to influential leaders and directors began. Shellye Archambeau, a seasoned board member, directed the co-founders to Robin Washington, who, in turn, connected them with Barry Lawson Williams and other key figures. This network formed the foundation for BCBR’s development, with the creation of a Program Advisory Board (PAB) that included influential corporate leaders like Robin Washington, Barry Williams, and Caretha Coleman.
The PAB emphasized the importance of designing a safe space for candid discussions on the unique experiences of diverse board members. They advised a bold placement goal: 100% board placement for program alumni within 12 months. The program’s launch was set for February 2021, timed to honor Black History Month. Drawing from their networks, Thane, Dennis, and PAB members engaged mentors and recruited a first cohort of 28 high-caliber professionals, surpassing initial expectations.
BCBR quickly gained momentum, launching multiple cohorts in its first year and graduating 82 alumni. The program's success was bolstered by public dialogues like the ‘Conversations on Diversity in Silicon Valley’ series, which underscored the need for boardroom inclusion and showcased the talent within the program.
BCBR’s difference lies in its commitment to tailored mentorship and guidance from experienced directors, addressing the nuanced challenges faced in boardrooms. Rooted in Jesuit principles and propelled by swift, action-oriented efforts, BCBR set a high standard for driving genuine boardroom inclusion and diversity. In its first years, over 50% of participants secured board placements, with results continuing to grow.
As BCBR evolves, it remains dedicated to expanding opportunities for diverse leaders and inspiring broader change in corporate governance. The program invites accomplished professionals to apply and board decision-makers to connect with this exceptional pool of talent, pushing the vision of diverse, inclusive leadership forward.