For our 35th anniversary, we’ll be sharing the stories of 35 alumni showcasing the leaders they are today and how 21st Century Leaders inspired and impacted their journey. Alumni will represent the 3.5 decades since our founding in 1989 – the 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s. Take a read and be inspired!
35th Anniversary Alumni Spotlight
2010’s Decade
Name: Patrice Johnson
H.S. Grad Year: Class of 2014
High School: Northgate High School
College: Spelman College/ Emory University
Current Role: MBA Candidate, Goizueta Business School-Emory University
How has your career unfolded, and how did participating in 21CL help prepare you for college, new leadership roles, and beyond?
Since participating in 21CL, I was admitted into my dream college, Spelman College, where I discovered my passion for Economics. I graduated with a BA in Economics in 2018, and after graduating, I had the privilege of working at Delta Air Lines and Apple Inc. in roles I genuinely enjoyed. Currently, I am pursuing my MBA at Emory University, with plans to transition into Investment Banking post-graduation. 21CL provided me with early exposure to the business world and helped shape my leadership skills. It also emphasized the importance of investing in youth, which is why I’ve consistently dedicated my time to programs that develop the next generation of leaders throughout the matriculation of my career.
What’s your most memorable or ‘aha’ moment from your time at 21CL?
My most memorable experience with 21CL was a business etiquette dinner where we learned practical skills like taking small bites to stay engaged in conversation and signaling to wait staff when we are finished with a plate. As my career has evolved, I have seen firsthand the importance of networking, and those early lessons on presence and etiquette at business dinners have been invaluable. At the time, I didn’t realize just how crucial these skills would be, but over ten years later, they remain tools I rely on and that have served me well.
Did 21CL help you develop a leadership style that makes you an effective leader? If so, how?
21CL is very intentional about giving students early opportunities to lead. During one program, I was asked to say the dedication over dinner—a first for me. While it was a small task, the experience felt empowering, and the encouragement I received afterward showed me that leadership doesn’t have to be intimidating. This lesson gave me confidence to step into new leadership roles and taught me to volunteer for opportunities, even if they make me nervous or are unfamiliar.
Why do you believe programs like 21CL are important? What advice would you give to current or future students?
Programs like 21CL are invaluable, and I believe the most valuable assets they offer are visibility and representation. It is much easier for one to believe in their potential when they see people who look like them achieving things they dream of. My advice to current and future 21CL students is to nurture the relationships they build with their cohort—many will go on to achieve incredible things, and those connections will pay dividends throughout their career. And most importantly, always find ways to give back!
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