Meet The Honorable Alexis M. Herman
The Honorable Alexis M. Herman is Chair and Chief Executive Officer, New Ventures, LLC as well as Member of the Boards of Directors of Entergy, MGM Resorts International and the Coca-Cola Company. She is also the former Secretary of Labor. Learn more about her and her inspiring work in our newest feature.
For those who don’t know your background, you can watch this short introduction from Former President Bill Clinton.
What are you most looking forward to about reviewing Anthem Awards entries?
That it is global and recognizes we live in a global community. We are all connected when we have common global goals to serve the common good. When we lift up people and organizations who have lived experiences of fostering equity and inclusion, it shines the light on what we should aspire to.
What does it take for a project or campaign to cause real-world change?
Firstly, it takes committed leadership to stay with the intent of what the goals of the project are, even when these goals may be challenged or feel unattainable. So a commitment to stay with the intent is critical. Secondly, it takes effective communications that are easily understood and translatable for a global perspective. This is especially important as we embrace and more fully understand cultural differences and the need to ensure that the goals are clearly understandable. Basic rule of thumb, keep it simple. Thirdly, it is important to have results that are measurable and can be replicated by others. These goals should have clearly stated milestones, guideposts, if you will, so that it is clear you can reach these goals, and ensure you are staying on track. The measurement should be realistic and attainable. Fourthly, allow for plan deviation and midcourse correction. It is important as you receive data and greater understanding of the project, that you are able to incorporate these learnings into your journey or goals. Lastly, celebrate your success.
How does your work at New Ventures support your mission?
Not at just New Ventures, but my lifelong work has been about removing barriers or lowering the barriers for those that have been left behind or were not included in the opportunities that our society affords. Specifically, my work at New Ventures strives to help organizations better understand their workforce challenges of incorporating new generations of workers and those who have been historically denied equitable pay, promotion opportunities, and career development needs. Additionally, today, how we now embrace this new hybrid workforce of those who are working from home and the office, requires new thinking and manager development.
Bonus: What’s your favorite purpose-driven project or mission-driven campaign right now, and why?
My favorite purpose driven project right now is The Presidential Leadership Scholars initiative (PLS), launched and led by Presidents Bush and Clinton. I have been the Co-Chair of PLS since its inception. It emphasizes leading across differences and bridging the societal divide. Participants in this leadership initiative gain insights into both the Clinton and Bush presidencies. They learn about the critical connection between clear vision, communication and strong leadership. They explore these principles and apply these principles to their own personal leadership projects in their respective communities. The work that they are doing in their communities is a significant part of the criteria to be selected as a Presidential scholar. In applying these principles they receive support from other scholars as well as leadership lessons from President Bush and President Clinton. Over a six week course of study, they are also able to interact with members of both the Clinton and Bush administrations, as well as the George H. Bush Library and the Lyndon B Johnson library. For me, it is a very special project because it is all about passing the baton and investing in the next generation of leadership for our country.
