Executive Edge

Lead with Connection. Influence with Purpose.

Leading a nonprofit today is more complex than ever. The systems we operate in are in constant flux demanding steady hands, clear judgment and emotional resilience from those at the helm. Executive Edge creates a confidential space for nonprofit CEOs and executive directors to pause, think strategically, and strengthen the leadership habits that sustain both them and their organizations.

Program Structure

Embrace the power of collaborative learning during ten (10) two-hour sessions. These sessions provide a valuable opportunity to step away from the pressures of daily operations and combine practical learning, peer coaching and honest dialogue to help leaders strengthen the skills that matter most.

Peer Learning and Accountability

Each participant is paired with an Accountability Partner (another CEO) in the cohort to turn insight into action. This structure provides each leader with the support, motivation, honest feedback, and a shared commitment to increase the success everyone will experience from the program.

Executive Speaker Conversations

In-person sessions will feature candid, small-circle conversations with prominent community and business leaders. These conversations are sharing and listening sessions that foster connection and insight about leadership at the highest level of an organization. The community and business leaders will discuss topics such as navigating complexity, making tough calls, and sustaining their leadership over time.

Featured Speakers Include – Trina Burruss, President & CEO, United Way of Buffalo & Erie County
Additional leaders to be announced.

Program Dates

March 2026 – February 2027 | 10 Monthly Sessions | 8:00 – 10:00 AM
Hybrid Format – Alternating virtual and in-person sessions (no sessions July or August)
In-person sessions will take place at United Way of Buffalo & Erie County. Virtual sessions will be held via Zoom.

Tuesday, March 3, 2026 – In person

Tuesday, April 14, 2026 – Virtual

Tuesday, May 12, 2026 – In person

Tuesday, June 9, 2026 – Virtual

Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026 – In person

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 – Virtual

Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026 – In person

Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2026 –  Virtual

Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2027 – Virtual

Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2027 – In person

Co-Facilitators

Sesha Yalamanchili

Sesha Yalamanchili is a leadership consultant and trainer with more than 15 years of experience as a business leader. Her mission? To implement programs, inspire leaders, teams and individuals to create inclusive environments where everyone has an equal opportunity to flourish. Sesha is the President of On the Mark Consulting. Learn more about Sesha.

Trina Burruss is a dynamic community leader committed to excellence through collaboration. Under Trina’s leadership, United Way of Buffalo & Erie County takes a hands-on approach to strengthening our community and building lasting financial security. With over 30 years of experience as a leader in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, Trina is able to provide insight into the complex decisions and challenges faced by nonprofit leaders on a day-to-day basis.

Interested in Executive Edge?

  • Must be the Executive Director, CEO, President, or C-level employee of a nonprofit organization in WNY.
  • Complete and submit the application.
  • Process your payment of $500 once your application is approved.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Payment will be due at the time your application is approved.

APPLY TODAY

For more information about Executive Edge @ United Way you may contact:

Jerome Singletary, Director of Government Relations: jerome.singletary@uwbec.org.