Adtalem Global Education (NYSE: ATGE) announced today that its President and CEO Lisa W. Wardell will be recognized for her leadership and commitment to education by Summer Search, an organization dedicated to giving young people the opportunity to strengthen the skills they need to succeed. Wardell will keynote Summer Search’s 2019 Leadership Gala on March 5 in New York City. She is currently the only African-American female CEO in the S&P 400.
“As a first-generation college graduate, I see so much of myself in the students Summer Search serves,” Wardell said. “Its emphasis on mentorship, year-round support and experiential learning opportunities are critical for students who come from underserved backgrounds. Summer Search gives these students the skills to succeed in school and in life regardless of their circumstances.”
“Thanks to Lisa’s background and accomplishments, she understands the systemic inequities our students face. She’s not only an exceptional role model, she’s committed to helping them fulfill their potential so they can enter the workforce at a high level,” Summer Search CEO Marc Spencer, Ed.D., said. “We’re fortunate to have Lisa as a partner, and honored that we will be able to recognize her achievements and leadership at our 2019 Leadership Gala. Her input, support and passion are significant assets to our mission.”
Previous honorees include Grammy and Oscar winner John Legend and Brown University President Christina Hull Paxson.
Recently, After School Matters, a Chicago-based organization that provides transformative after-school and summer program opportunities to more than 18,000 Chicago high school students each year, recognized Wardell for her personal charitable contribution to that organization. Her philanthropy is part of a personal commitment to mentor, sponsor and encourage underserved youth and professionals to help them reach their greatest level of success.
Wardell’s position at Adtalem relates to her personal agenda. Adtalem is a mission-driven organization that educates students for careers in medicine, nursing, veterinary medicine, business, law and other areas, as well as certifies working professionals who increase their expertise in anti-money laundering and accounting. The professionals served by Adtalem’s programs contribute to the well-being of their communities. Separately, under Wardell’s direction, Adtalem conducts community relations activities and provides financial support to education-based charitable organizations in the United States, Caribbean, South America and elsewhere.
About Summer Search
Summer Search provides youth with skills, resources, and support to develop the character and life skills needed to thrive and become leaders in our communities. Its comprehensive program spans seven to nine years and directly supports the development of the non-cognitive skills necessary to manage the social and environmental challenges students will face in college and in life. Summer Search integrates year-round, holistic professional mentorship, summer experiential learning opportunities, individualized college and financial aid counseling, and a consistent network of support through their high school and post-secondary years. Through the combination of these program components, students expand their view of what is possible for themselves and achieve their own definition of professional and personal success. Learn more at summersearch.org.
Media Contact:
Ernie Gibble
ernie.gibble@adtalem.com
630-353-9920
