Board Member Spotlight Series:
Taylor Thornton
What is your connection to Los Angeles/Orange County?
I moved to San Diego this year (2021) for a career opportunity and now serve as the San Diego Region Director of the National Black MBA Association — Los Angeles Chapter. I am excited to develop new ties and strengthen existing ones in ways that further advance our members in their career paths and more.
How did you first hear about the National Black MBA Association?
I first learned of the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) during my interview with the University of Texas at Dallas in joining the Class of 2020 Full-Time MBA cohort. The program directors shared the opportunity to attend the NBMBAA Annual Conference & Career Expo and encouraged our entire class to participate.
What influenced you to join the National Black MBA Association - Los Angeles Chapter Board?
The National Black MBA Association has so much to offer, and my current success is a result. I learned what companies and recruiters were interested in while attending the 2019 Annual Conference & Career Expo in Houston, TX. I took those insights and participated the following year with confidence, where I successfully interviewed and obtained my first corporate position upon graduating with my MBA degree. I would later relocate to California for work and find a community where members interact, learn, and thrive.
My first encounter with the Los Angeles Chapter was during a game night. Although a virtual event, I left feeling welcomed by the Chapter, including the Chapter President, who continued to engage and made the idea of joining the Los Angeles Chapter an easy "Yes." I chose to join the Los Angeles Chapter Board because I want to give back to the local community and support MBA students seeking opportunities.
What is your favorite thing about the National Black MBA Association?
This organization is truly impactful. My experience is a testament to that. NBMBAA has built an incredible network for all of us to tap into to grow as professionals and provides career opportunities for our community. I appreciate its provision of shared space to impart career and life experiences. But their commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) is near and dear to my heart, as a Xavier University of Louisiana graduate, and assures me they will not overlook them. I know I've shared more than one favorite thing, but each is why I believe NBMBAA's work is invaluable.
What are the benefits of being a member of the National Black MBA Association?
1. NBMBAA members can connect and develop meaningful relationships with an incredible network of professionals and students who can help with their career success. They may be your next mentor or intern.
2. NBMBAA members can access the career board and the annual career fair to reduce recruiting and hiring barriers. Such services can dismantle barricades to employment and the like.
3. NBMBAA members are incredibly inspiring and continuously motivated to reach their personal and career goals. It is a win-win position for professionals navigating with a purpose and surrounding themselves with like-minded people.
What excites you most about the direction of the National Black MBA Association - Los Angeles Chapter, and how will you contribute to it in your current role?
I am most excited that I am a part of a local chapter that consistently seeks to become even better to serve its member and the local community. My contribution to the Los Angeles Chapter will be expanding outreach and engagement efforts in the San Diego community by actively organizing and participating in events for membership engagement and adding value to membership.
Social Media