What does it take to break through the highest glass ceiling in corporate America?

Answer: Clifton R. Wharton Jr. became the CEO of TIAA-CREF in 1987

Questions:

• What barriers might have existed for Black professionals aspiring to become CEOs of Fortune 500 companies?
• How does representation in corporate leadership shape perceptions of success and opportunity for future generations?
• How might mentoring, networking, and sponsorship opportunities impact the ability of underrepresented groups to reach executive positions?

Here are the ready-to-go slides for this Question of the Day that you can use in your classroom

Behind the numbers (Black Enterprise): 

As CEO of TIAA-CREF, Clifton R. Wharton, Jr. broke through the corporate titanium ceiling to become the first Black to head a Fortune 500 company, paving the path for the upward trajectory of generations of Black executives. Wharton’s legacy transcends beyond his role as former chairman and CEO of the iconic financial giant. He has served as trustee or director of more than 26 business corporations and public affairs associations since 1967, becoming an empowering model of Black leadership.

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About the Author

Dave Martin

Dave joins NGPF with 15 years of teaching experience in math and computer science. After joining the New York City Teaching Fellows program and earning a Master's degree in Education from Pace University, his teaching career has taken him to New York, New Jersey and a summer in the north of Ghana. Dave firmly believes that financial literacy is vital to creating well-rounded students that are prepared for a complex and highly competitive world. During what free time two young daughters will allow, Dave enjoys video games, Dungeons & Dragons, cooking, gardening, and taking naps.

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