Erika James shares her insights on being a proactive leader, balancing challenges, and paving the way for working mothers everywhere.

Women are enrolling in business schools like never before. In 2022, the reported percentage of women in full-time MBA programs reached 45%, a historic high. Consequently, business school leadership is evolving to reflect this demographic shift. Female deans at business schools rose to 29% in 2021, compared to just 17% in 2007, as noted in a study.

Erika James made history as the first woman and the first woman of color to serve as dean at the Wharton School, a prestigious institution recognized globally for its undergraduate business education. After earning her Ph.D. in organizational psychology, she initially ventured into academia on a whim, but has since become a powerful role model for young Black women aspiring to leadership.

In her latest book, The Prepared Leader, she outlines how effective leaders anticipate various outcomes, preparing strategies for both positive and negative scenarios. When the pandemic struck shortly after she became dean, Erika transitioned all courses to remote learning seamlessly. "I felt a strong sense of responsibility, knowing students looked to me for guidance during such an unexpected time. I aimed to provide them with hope amidst uncertainty," she reflects.