.
AAFEA is the premier national association of federal senior executives and leaders who are committed to excellence, ethical stewardship, and sustained impact across their public service careers.
Questions or need an accommodation? Email the AAFEA Chancellor at [email protected].
Dr. Patrina M. Clark, AAFEA National President, in conversation with Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, CEO of AARP, at the 2026 AAFEA Signature Weekend leadership workshop.
A Welcome from the President
25 Years Forward: Honoring Legacy. Advancing Leadership. Strengthening Public Service.
As we prepare to celebrate AAFEA's 25th anniversary in 2027, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary leaders who built this organization, the community they created, and the responsibility we share to carry their legacy forward.For nearly 25 years, AAFEA has connected, developed, and supported federal leaders committed to excellence in public service. That commitment remains especially important today, as leaders navigate increasing complexity, evolving expectations, and profound changes in the institutions they serve.Our 25 Years Forward initiative reflects both our appreciation for what has been accomplished and our determination to build on it. We are expanding leadership development opportunities, strengthening mentoring and executive readiness, fostering meaningful professional connections, and creating new ways for leaders across the country to engage with AAFEA.I believe deeply in the power of community and in the difference accomplished leaders can make when they invest in one another. Whether you are preparing for executive service, continuing to grow as a senior leader, sharing your experience with the next generation, or exploring opportunities to partner with us, there is a place for you in AAFEA's future.I invite you to join us as we celebrate 25 years of leadership and build toward the next 25.Dr. Patrina M. Clark, Ed.D.
National President
AAFEA Leadership Development Ecosystem
AAFEA supports leadership development across six connected levels, from foundational preparation through continued effectiveness in the Senior Executive Service. Leaders can engage at the stage that reflects their current responsibilities and aspirations, while remaining connected to a national professional community.
Supporting experiences across every level include the President's Leadership Forum, Coffee Talks, and leadership webinars.
Learn, Connect, and Grow with AAFEA
Connect with experienced federal executives and senior leaders, exchange ideas, and gain fresh perspectives through AAFEA programming and signature events.
Why AAFEA?
AAFEA exists to strengthen leaders, institutions, and the future of public service by investing in people who carry its highest responsibilities.
Robin Bailey, Jr. and Quay Crowner co-moderate an SES-Only Forum at the 2026 AAFEA Signature Weekend Workshop.
For Federal Leaders
Engage in executive-level leadership development, confidential peer dialogue, and a national community of leaders who understand the complexity, responsibility, and weight of public service at the highest levels.
Michelle Clark, Cornerstone, networking with other AAFEA members at the 2026 Networking Social.
For Affiliates
Engage with AAFEA's leadership community through select programming, thought leadership, and dialogue aligned with ethical public service, executive leadership, and the federal ecosystem.
Jamie Prahasky, WAEPA Marketing Specialist, at the 2026 AAFEA Signature Weekend Workshop.
For Strategic Partners
Collaborate with a trusted national association committed to advancing leadership excellence, strengthening the federal executive pipeline, and sustaining ethical public service leadership nationwide.
Ready to Lead, Serve, or Partner with Purpose?
Join a national community committed to leadership excellence in public service.
About AAFEA
The African American Federal Executive Association (AAFEA) is a national non-partisan and non-profit professional association dedicated to strengthening African American leadership across the federal government. For decades, AAFEA has served as a trusted national forum and professional home for senior federal executives and those preparing to lead at the highest levels of public service.AAFEA advances excellence in leadership, integrity in governance, and continuity across the federal executive pipeline.
Our History
AAFEA was founded to address a critical need within the federal government: a dedicated professional home to support, develop, and connect African American leaders serving at the highest levels of public service. Its founders recognized that African American executives often navigate leadership roles without consistent access to informal networks, mentorship pathways, and institutional support systems available to others.From its inception, AAFEA has served as both an advocate and a professional home. Built and sustained by senior federal leaders who understood the responsibilities of executive service, the Association has emphasized leadership that is principled, prepared, and resilient.That founding vision established AAFEA as a national forum for executive dialogue, leadership development, and stewardship of the federal executive pipeline. This legacy continues to guide the organization as it evolves to meet the needs of current and future generations of leaders.
Our Founders
William A. Brown, Sr.
Dr. Lenora P. Gant
Tracey Pinson
Twenty Years of Leadership, Legacy, and Impact… and Counting
Created for AAFEA’s 20th anniversary, this video reflects the organization’s journey, purpose, and enduring commitment to advancing African American leadership in the federal government. Through the voices, milestones, and moments that shaped AAFEA, it honors the foundation laid by past leaders while pointing toward a future defined by excellence, community, and service.
AAFEA’s 20th Anniversary Video
Our Mission
AAFEA strengthens leaders, institutions, and the future of public service by advancing ethical leadership, executive readiness, and professional stewardship across the federal landscape. We do this by:
Advancing the professional development and advancement of African Americans within the senior ranks of the United States Government.
Advocating for programs, policies, and practices that expand career enhancing opportunities and build critical leadership capacity.
Building partnerships with senior level associations, public and private sector organizations, and academic institutions to strengthen the federal executive pipeline.
Our Role and Impact
AAFEA operates at the intersection of leadership development, community, and institutional responsibility. Our work spans the full continuum of leadership, from preparing high performing professionals for senior executive roles, to supporting seasoned executives through peer engagement, dialogue, and continuous professional development.Through national programming, executive forums, fellowships, and strategic partnerships, AAFEA amplifies the contributions of African American federal leaders while strengthening the resilience and effectiveness of the executive corps.
AAFEA Leadership Development Workshop Past Keynote Speakers
Our Commitment
AAFEA is committed to ethical leadership, professional integrity, and collective responsibility. Strong institutions are sustained by leaders who are supported, connected, and grounded in shared purpose. That commitment continues to guide our work today and into the future.
Leadership and Governance
AAFEA is governed by a Board of Directors composed of current and retired members of the Senior Executive Service and other distinguished federal leaders. The Board provides strategic oversight, fiduciary stewardship, and continuity of mission.AAFEA’s leadership reflects a deep commitment to accountability, stewardship, and institutional continuity.
Dr. Patrina M. Clark
President
Shannon Jackson
Vice President
Andrea Williamson
Secretary
Angel M. Robinson
Treasurer
Lydia Taylor
Financial Secretary
Tanya Lawrence
Parliamentarian
Gisile Goethe
Chancellor
Dr. Sabrina Clark
Program Director
Dr. James McDonald
Member-at-Large
L’Tonya Davis
Membership Director
Jackie Robinson-Burnette
Community Affairs Director
Roxie Jones
Historian
Kerry Neal
General Counsel
AAFEA’s Past National Presidents
AAFEA’s past National Presidents, all career members of the Senior Executive Service (SES), represent a legacy of service, vision, and principled leadership. Their stewardship shaped the organization’s direction and laid the foundation for its continued national impact.
William A. Brown, Sr.
(2002 – 2015)
Leslye Miller Fraser
(2016 – 2019)
Dr. Reginald Wells
(2020)
Byron Adkins, Jr.
(2020 – 2021)
Tyra A. Dent
(2022 – 2025)
Join a Community Committed to Leadership and Service
AAFEA brings together African American federal executives, senior leaders, and trusted partners who share a commitment to excellence, integrity, and stewardship in public service. Membership and partnership reflect alignment with these values and support the continued strength of the federal executive pipeline.
Developing Leaders. Strengthening Public Service.
AAFEA advances leadership excellence across the federal government through executive development, mentoring, practical learning, and meaningful connections with accomplished public service leaders. Our programs support professionals preparing for senior executive responsibility and executives committed to continued growth, stewardship, and service.Choose a program below to see its audience, dates, and how to take part. In our cohort programs, AAFEA members receive preferred consideration, and non-members may participate as space allows.
Not sure where you fit? Start with the audience listed on each program card, and email [email protected] with any questions.
Leadership Development Workshop
Dr. Lenora P. Gant, AAFEA cofounder, moderates a panel discussion at the 2026 Signature Weekend Workshop.
Fellows Mock Interviews
Fellows practice interviews with one another in peer-led mock panels, and an Executive Briefing assessed through the capstone briefings replaces one round of SES mock interviews.
Networking Social
AAFEA members and guests connecting at the AAFEA Summer Social held August 27, 2026, at Realm Rooftop in Washington D.C.
AAFEA’s Signature Programs
AAFEA’s Signature Programs form a leadership continuum for federal executives who want more than credentials. These programs develop judgment, presence, and readiness while connecting participants to a trusted community of senior leaders committed to public service excellence.
Level 1 · Emerging Leadership
Career Development Program
For GS-13s and GS-14s, or equivalents, building the experience that leads to senior roles. Details coming in 2027.
Level 2 · Executive Preparation
Executive Mentoring Program
For senior GS-14s and early GS-15s preparing for executive roles through mentoring. March 1 to August 27, 2027. Application details coming soon.
Level 3 · Advanced Leadership
AAFEA Fellows Program
For GS-15s and select GS-14s seeking a nine-month executive development experience. January 11 to September 10, 2027. Applications are open through November 20, 2026.
Level 4 · Executive Readiness
SES Readiness Accelerator
For GS-15s preparing to compete for the SES, in a primarily virtual two-month program. Cohort 1 runs February 1 to March 26, 2027. Application details coming soon.
Level 5 · Executive-Level Engagement and Refinement
Leadership Development Workshop
Executive-level leadership development for members and executives during Signature Weekend. September 10 to 11, 2027. Details coming soon.
Level 6 · Executive Leadership Development
Quarterly Executive Seminars
For current members of the Senior Executive Service. Same-day sessions on January 11, April 5, June 7, and October 4, 2027. Details coming soon.
AAFEA Fellows Program
Advanced executive development for accomplished federal leaders
The AAFEA Fellows Program is a nine-month executive development experience for federal leaders who want to strengthen their capacity for senior and executive-level leadership.
Program Overview
Through cohort learning, executive dialogue, mentoring, applied leadership experiences, and structured reflection, the AAFEA Fellows Program helps participants develop the enterprise perspective, executive judgment, and leadership capabilities needed for greater responsibility. Fellows deepen their understanding of executive leadership, strengthen their record of accomplishment, and identify opportunities for continued growth.The program provides a foundation for future executive opportunities, including participation in the SES Readiness Accelerator, which focuses on demonstrating readiness in a competitive SES selection process.
What Makes the Program Distinctive
| Cross-Agency Cohort | Up to 20 federal leaders learn together, exchange perspectives across agencies and disciplines, and build lasting professional relationships. |
| Executive Engagement | Current and former senior executives share their experiences, insights, and perspectives on the complexities and responsibilities of executive leadership. |
| Individualized Mentoring | Each Fellow works one-on-one with a current or former SES member during the final 90 days to support leadership growth and future development. |
| Applied Leadership | Fellows collaborate on a team Executive Challenge Project, applying executive-level analysis, judgment, and problem-solving to a consequential leadership challenge. |
| Expanded Professional Network | Coffee Talks, webinars, and AAFEA events provide continuing opportunities to engage with senior leaders, learn from diverse experiences, and build connections across the federal community. |
Program Structure at a Glance
| WHEN | PHASE | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| October 30–November 20, 2026 | Apply | Submit your application. Finalists participate in a developmental interview of up to 30 minutes. |
| January–June 2027 | Learn and Develop | Participate in six monthly cohort sessions, typically held on Saturdays for two to three hours, along with AAFEA Coffee Talks and webinars. Team Executive Challenge Projects begin in February. |
| Mid-June–September 10, 2027 | Engage and Advance | Work one-on-one with a current or former SES mentor, advance your Executive Challenge Project, and deepen your learning through reflection, collaboration, and peer feedback. |
| September 10–11, 2027 | Present and Graduate | Present your team's Executive Challenge Project during the public capstone briefings on Friday, September 10, and celebrate your graduation on Saturday, September 11, during AAFEA's Signature Weekend. |
Participants should anticipate approximately 75 hours of developmental activities across the nine-month program, including cohort sessions, individual mentoring, AAFEA leadership events, independent preparation, and team project work. Additional time may be required to complete the Executive Challenge Project. Activities are generally scheduled during weekday evenings and Saturdays.
Who Should Apply
The AAFEA Fellows Program is designed for GS-15s and select GS-14s, or their equivalents, including employees in pay-banded and other alternative classification systems. Strong applicants demonstrate:
Leadership experience: A record of meaningful accomplishments and increasing leadership responsibility.
Commitment to growth: A clear desire to strengthen their capabilities and prepare for greater leadership responsibilities.
Executive potential: The capacity to think strategically, exercise sound judgment, and lead across organizational boundaries.
Readiness to engage: The commitment and availability to participate fully in the nine-month program, including cohort sessions, mentoring, and the Executive Challenge Project.
AAFEA members receive preferred consideration. Non-members are welcome to apply and may be selected as space allows.
Outcomes and Impact
Through the Fellows Program, participants develop:
Executive Judgment and Enterprise Perspective: Stronger strategic thinking, sound judgment, and the ability to consider challenges across organizational boundaries.
Leadership Self-Awareness: A deeper understanding of their leadership strengths, developmental priorities, and experiences needed for continued growth.
Applied Leadership Experience: A completed Executive Challenge Project and a Forward Executive Development Agenda to guide their next steps.
Lasting Professional Connections: A trusted network of peers and senior leaders who offer diverse perspectives, shared learning, and opportunities for continued engagement.
The AAFEA Fellows Program is an independent professional development program. It does not guarantee selection to the Senior Executive Service, is not an SES Candidate Development Program approved by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), and does not replace agency-sponsored development.
Alumni and Community
Throughout the nine-month program, Fellows build meaningful relationships with peers who bring diverse experiences, perspectives, and expertise. Through shared learning, candid feedback, and collaboration on the Executive Challenge Project, the cohort develops a trusted network that extends beyond graduation.As graduates, Fellows become part of AAFEA's broader leadership community, with continuing opportunities to connect with current and former federal executives, exchange insights, and contribute to the development of future leaders.
Some of AAFEA's 2026 Fellows with Kelly Foster, CEO of Motivated by Kelly.
Application Status and Next Steps
Applications are open through November 20, 2026.
| AAFEA Member | $1,500 |
| Non-member | $1,750 |
There is no application fee. Applicants will be notified of selection decisions by December 16, 2026, and selected applicants must confirm their acceptance by December 19, 2026.
Agency sponsorship is welcome. AAFEA provides a two-page overview for agency-sponsored participants, agency payment instructions, and a prefilled SF-182 to facilitate agency approval and payment.
Questions or need an accommodation? Email the AAFEA Chancellor
SES Readiness Accelerator
Focused preparation for leaders ready to compete for the Senior Executive Service (SES)
The AAFEA SES Readiness Accelerator is an intensive, two-month, primarily virtual program designed for leaders preparing to compete for the Senior Executive Service (SES). Through personal coaching, practice before mock SES selection panels, and targeted feedback, participants strengthen their ability to describe their executive qualifications, demonstrate leadership readiness, and present a compelling record of accomplishment in a competitive SES selection process.
Program Overview
The SES Readiness Accelerator is designed for leaders who have established a record of leadership accomplishments and are ready to compete for executive opportunities. The program focuses on helping participants translate their experience into persuasive evidence of executive qualifications and prepare for the demands of the SES selection process.Over eight weekly cohort sessions, participants examine the SES selection process, develop and refine their executive narratives, and strengthen their preparation through individualized coaching, two mock SES panels, and feedback from experienced federal executives.
What Makes the Program Distinctive
| Competition-Focused Preparation | Eight weekly cohort sessions focus on the qualifications, application materials, and selection activities central to the SES competition process. |
| Individual Coaching | Each participant is paired with a coach by Week 4 to receive personalized guidance and feedback on their executive qualifications and preparation. |
| Two Mock SES Panels | Participants practice responding to executive-level questions and receive targeted feedback to strengthen their performance in competitive selection interviews. |
| Competition-Ready Materials | Participants develop a two-page SES resume and an individualized SES Competition Strategy to guide their pursuit of executive opportunities. |
| Small Cohort Experience | The inaugural pilot cohort is limited to ten participants, allowing for focused engagement, personalized attention, and peer learning. |
Program Structure at a Glance
| WHEN | PHASE | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| Before the Program | Apply and Screen | Submit your application. Finalists participate in a pre-admission screening process that includes a structured interview of approximately 30 minutes. |
| Eight Weeks | Prepare and Practice | Participate in weekly cohort sessions, work with an individual coach beginning by Week 4, and complete two mock SES panels with targeted feedback. |
| Program Completion | Finalize and Advance | Complete your two-page SES resume and individualized SES Competition Strategy, equipped with practical tools and feedback to pursue competitive SES opportunities. |
Participants should anticipate approximately 40 hours of developmental activities across eight weeks, including weekly cohort sessions, individual coaching, two mock SES panels, and independent preparation.
Who Should Apply
The Accelerator is designed for leaders at the GS-15 level or equivalent who are preparing to compete for the Senior Executive Service. Leaders who are still building their executive experience are encouraged to apply to the Fellows Program first. After the pre-admission screen, AAFEA may recommend the Fellows Program as the better next step.
Outcomes and Impact
Through the Accelerator, participants leave with:
A two-page SES resume
An SES Competition Strategy
Confidence from two mock SES panels
Individual coaching on their executive record
The SES Readiness Accelerator is an independent professional development program. It does not guarantee selection to the Senior Executive Service, is not an SES Candidate Development Program approved by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), and does not replace agency-sponsored development.
Alumni and Community
Throughout the Accelerator, participants build relationships with accomplished peers who share a commitment to executive leadership and are preparing for competitive SES opportunities. Through cohort learning, shared practice, and candid feedback, participants develop professional connections that can extend beyond the program.Participants also gain access to AAFEA's broader leadership community, with continuing opportunities to engage with current and former federal executives, exchange insights, and support one another's professional growth.
Application Status and Next Steps
Cohort 1: February 1 to March 26, 2027. Application details coming soon. Information about upcoming cohorts will be available in 2027.
| AAFEA Member | $750 |
| Non-member | $900 |
Questions or need an accommodation? Email the Accelerator Team
AAFEA Executive Mentoring Program
Structured Mentoring for Emerging Executives
The AAFEA Executive Mentoring Program supports senior GS-14s and early GS-15s, or their equivalents, as they prepare for executive roles through structured mentoring relationships with experienced senior leaders.
Program Overview
The Executive Mentoring Program pairs participants with experienced senior leaders who provide individualized guidance, perspective, and feedback. Together, mentors and mentees establish developmental goals, explore leadership challenges, and identify experiences and opportunities that support continued growth toward executive leadership.Through regular conversations and structured reflection, participants gain deeper insight into their leadership strengths, broaden their executive perspective, and develop a clearer path toward their professional aspirations.
What Makes the Program Distinctive
| Purposeful Mentoring | Each mentoring relationship focuses on the participant's leadership goals, developmental priorities, and aspirations for executive service. |
| Thoughtful Matching | A program manager matches mentees with experienced mentors based on their professional backgrounds, developmental goals, and matching profiles. |
| Structured Engagement | Mentors and mentees establish expectations for their relationship, agree on a meeting schedule, and receive ongoing support from the program manager. |
| Experienced Leadership Perspectives | Current and former senior leaders share practical insights, professional experience, and guidance to support the next generation of federal executives. |
| A Broader Leadership Community | Participants gain opportunities to connect with AAFEA's network of current and former federal executives and other emerging leaders. |
Program Structure at a Glance
| WHEN | PHASE | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| January–February 2027 | Apply | Submit your application during the enrollment period. Application dates and instructions will be announced soon. |
| March 1, 2027 | Connect and Begin | Mentees are matched with experienced mentors, establish initial expectations, and begin their mentoring relationships. |
| March–August 2027 | Engage and Grow | Mentors and mentees meet regularly to discuss leadership goals, explore developmental opportunities, and reflect on progress, with periodic support and check-ins from the program manager. |
| August 27, 2027 | Reflect and Conclude | Participants reflect on their progress, identify priorities for continued development, and conclude their formal mentoring relationships. |
Who Should Apply
The AAFEA Executive Mentoring Program is designed for senior GS-14s and early GS-15s, or their equivalents, including employees in pay-banded and other alternative classification systems.The program is particularly well suited for leaders who want to strengthen their executive leadership capabilities, gain perspective from an experienced senior leader, and make informed decisions about their professional development and future opportunities.AAFEA members receive preferred consideration. Non-members are welcome to apply and may be selected as space allows.
Outcomes and Impact
| Experienced Leadership Guidance | Individualized guidance, feedback, and perspective from an experienced senior leader. |
| Clearer Developmental Direction | Greater clarity about leadership goals, developmental priorities, and next steps toward executive roles. |
| Broader Executive Perspective | A deeper understanding of executive leadership expectations, challenges, and responsibilities. |
| Lasting Professional Connections | A trusted mentoring relationship that may continue beyond the formal program. |
Alumni and Community
The Executive Mentoring Program connects participants with AAFEA's broader leadership community, including current and former federal executives and other emerging leaders. Through Coffee Talks, webinars, and association events, mentees gain additional opportunities to learn, exchange perspectives, and build professional relationships.Following the program, participants are encouraged to remain engaged with AAFEA and pursue leadership development opportunities that align with their individual goals and aspirations.
Application Status and Next Steps
Program dates: March 1 to August 27, 2027. Application details coming soon. Information about upcoming cohorts will be available in 2027.
Questions or need an accommodation? Email the Mentoring Team
Ongoing Leadership Programming
Fellows take part in Coffee Talks and webinars as part of the program, and every AAFEA member is welcome. AAFEA’s ongoing leadership offerings provide consistent access to executive insight, peer dialogue, and reflection throughout the year. These programs reinforce AAFEA’s commitment to leadership continuity by creating space for learning and connection beyond formal development programs.
AAFEA President’s Leadership Forum
Audience: All member categories
Format: Virtual, monthlyHosted monthly by the President, this forum serves as a consistent touchpoint for connection, transparency, and shared direction across the membership. Held on the fourth Tuesday of each month, these virtual sessions create space for timely updates, strategic context, and meaningful dialogue beyond formal events and signature programs.Each session provides insights into AAFEA initiatives, strategic priorities, and emerging opportunities, while inviting member questions, perspectives, and engagement. Topics may include program updates, digital platform enhancements, membership initiatives, leadership development pathways, and previews of major events.Designed to strengthen alignment and deepen community, the President’s Leadership Forum reinforces AAFEA’s commitment to visible leadership, open communication, and sustained member engagement throughout the yearWhat to Expect:
Organizational updates and strategic context
Highlights of upcoming programs and initiatives
Opportunities for member questions and dialogue
Clear pathways for engagement and participation
AAFEA Coffee Talks
Audience: All member categories
Format: Virtual, monthlyAAFEA Monthly Coffee Talks are monthly informal, interactive conversations with senior federal leaders who share candid insight drawn from lived executive experience. These sessions provide accessible entry points into AAFEA’s leadership community while offering practical perspective on career navigation, leadership growth, and executive life.Designed to be conversational, Coffee Talks encourage open dialogue, questions, and shared reflection across the membershipWhat to Expect:
Connection across roles and career stages
Executive perspectives on leadership journeys and transitions
Practical insight grounded in real-world experience
Open dialogue and participant questions
AAFEA Leadership Webinars
Audience: Executive Pathway and Senior Leader members
Format: Virtual, bi-monthlyAAFEA’s Leadership Webinars provide focused professional development on topics central to executive readiness, leadership presence, and career strategy. Sessions are interactive, grounded in federal leadership realities, and led by experienced practitioners.Each webinar delivers practical guidance participants can apply immediately within their leadership roles.Core Topics:
Navigating organizational and institutional complexity
Executive readiness and leadership transitions
Leadership presence and influence
Strategic career planning and positioning
Executive Forums
Details coming soon.
25 Years Forward: 25th Anniversary Celebration and Signature Weekend
The 25th Anniversary Celebration and 2027 Signature Weekend takes place September 10 to 11, 2027. Fellows present their Executive Challenge Projects at the final capstone briefing on Friday, September 10, and graduate on Saturday, September 11, 2027. Details and registration will be announced.
Dr. Shantrell (Nikki) Collier keynoted the 2026 AAFEA Signature Weekend Gala.
Kerry Neal, Rachel Torres, and Onika Coke-Muñoz during the 2026 AAFEA Signature Weekend Workshop.
2026 AAFEA Board members at the 2026 AAFEA Signature Weekend Workshop, standing (l-r) Dr. Sabrina Clark, Lydia Taylor, Andrea Williamson; seated (l-r) Gisile Goethe, Dr. Patrina Clark, and Shannon Jackson.
Join the AAFEA Leadership Community
Leadership development continues through relationships, shared experience, and opportunities to contribute. Join AAFEA's national community of federal leaders and connect with the programs, people, and perspectives that support excellence in public service.
Impact & Awards
AAFEA’s impact is reflected in the leaders we support, the excellence we recognize, and the pathways we strengthen across the federal executive community. Through national awards and targeted scholarships, AAFEA honors leadership that advances integrity, inclusion, and stewardship at the highest levels of public service.
Our Impact
For more than two decades, AAFEA has served as a national convener and catalyst for African American leadership within the federal government. Our programs, fellowships, and partnerships have supported leaders across the full continuum of service, from GS 13 professionals preparing for senior roles to seasoned Senior Executive Service members sustaining effectiveness and resilience.Our awards and scholarships are a core expression of this work. They recognize distinguished service, elevate role models, and invest directly in leadership development that strengthens both individuals and institutions.
National Awards
The Honorable Ebenezer Bassett
Ebenezer Bassett Award
Named in honor of Ebenezer Don Carlos Bassett, the first African American diplomat of the United States, this award recognizes career and non career senior federal leaders whose service reflects sustained excellence, principled leadership, and a commitment to advancing African Americans within the senior ranks of government.Recipients exemplify achievement in results, people leadership, innovation, and mentorship, and serve as visible role models for the executive corps.
The Honorable Tracey Pinson
Tracey Pinson Trailblazer Award
Established in honor of AAFEA founding member Tracey Pinson, this award recognizes GS 13 through GS 15 professionals who have demonstrated leadership in advancing opportunity, mentoring others, and creating pathways to senior executive service.Trailblazers are recognized for their commitment to developing others while continuing to grow in their own leadership journey.
Dr. Lenora P. Gant
Dr. Lenora P. Gant Community Partner Award
Renamed to honor AAFEA co founder Dr. Lenora P. Gant, this award recognizes organizations across the public, private, nonprofit, and academic sectors that have demonstrated sustained partnership with AAFEA in advancing leadership development and executive readiness for African Americans.Recipients reflect meaningful collaboration, innovative engagement, and measurable contributions aligned with AAFEA’s mission.
Samuel C. Jones
Samuel C. Jones Mentor Award
Established in memory of Samuel C. Jones, this award honors AAFEA members at the GS 15 and Senior Executive Service levels who have demonstrated exemplary, sustained mentorship over a minimum of three years.The award affirms the central role of mentorship in leadership development and recognizes those who invest deeply in the growth of others.
Scholarships and Leadership Investment
William A. Brown, Sr.
William A. Brown, Sr. Scholarship Award
Named for AAFEA founder and first national president William A. Brown, Sr., this scholarship supports AAFEA members pursuing higher education, professional development, or executive coaching to strengthen readiness for senior leadership roles.Awards are granted to eligible GS and SES members and are applied directly to learning and development providers.
National Security Executive Professional Association Scholarship
This scholarship supports AAFEA members within the intelligence and national security community who are investing in advanced education, leadership development, or coaching.The scholarship reflects AAFEA’s commitment to strengthening executive leadership across mission critical federal sectors.
Recognition and Stewardship
Award recipients and scholarship recipients are formally recognized through AAFEA’s national programming, including the Annual Awards Gala, and through official AAFEA communications.Together, these honors reflect AAFEA’s enduring commitment to leadership excellence, professional stewardship, and the sustained strength of the federal executive pipeline.
Partnerships
AAFEA partners with organizations that share our commitment to leadership excellence, ethical stewardship, and meaningful impact in public service.Through strategic partnerships, we expand opportunities for leadership development, executive readiness, mentoring, and professional connections across the federal leadership community.We work collaboratively with our partners to align shared priorities, create meaningful engagement opportunities, and deliver lasting value for leaders, organizations, and the institutions they serve.
Why Partner with AAFEA?
Partnering with AAFEA connects your organization with a trusted national community of experienced federal executives, senior leaders, and emerging leadership talent.Through strategic, year-round engagement, partners gain opportunities to build relationships, share expertise, and increase their visibility within a respected federal leadership community.Your partnership also contributes to developing the next generation of federal leaders, expanding access to executive development, and strengthening the leadership capacity of the institutions they serve.
Pathways to Partnership
Through partnership with AAFEA, your organization can invest in the development of federal leaders, expand access to executive learning opportunities, and build meaningful connections with an accomplished national leadership community. Explore the opportunities that best align with your organization's priorities and commitment to public service.
Leadership Investment
Advance executive development, readiness, and continued leadership growth.Impact: Stronger leadership capability across career stages.
Leadership Access
Help qualified leaders participate in development when agency funding is limited.Impact: Expanded access to executive learning opportunities.
Community Engagement
Build lasting relationships across agencies, career stages, and generations.Impact: A stronger, more connected leadership community.
2027 Partnership Opportunities
Invest in Leadership
Executive Mentoring Program, Fellows Program, SES Readiness Accelerator, SES Executive Development Workshops
From $15,000
Expand Access to Opportunities
Leadership Access Fund
From $5,000
Strengthen Community
Holiday Community Celebration, Summer Gathering, SES Executive Social
From $5,000
Signature Weekend Sponsorships
AAFEA also offers sponsorship opportunities for Signature Weekend, our premier annual gathering that brings together federal executives, senior leaders, and aspiring executives for leadership development, professional connections, and recognition of excellence in public service. Partners can support meaningful learning experiences while engaging with AAFEA's national leadership community.A separate sponsorship prospectus will be available in Spring 2027.
Partnership With Integrity
AAFEA values partnerships built on shared purpose, mutual respect, and a commitment to strengthening public service. We welcome organizations that want to invest in leadership development, expand opportunities, and contribute to a thriving professional community.
Sponsor recognition at the 2026 AAFEA Signature Weekend.
Recognition and Reporting
AAFEA recognizes partners in ways that reflect the significance and scope of their investment. Depending on the partnership, recognition may include visibility across AAFEA communications, digital platforms, program materials, and selected year-round activities.Partners also receive concise updates that demonstrate the impact of their investment. Reporting may include program delivery, participation, access created, engagement, and relevant developmental outcomes, while preserving participant confidentiality and the independence of AAFEA's programs.
Partner with AAFEA
AAFEA welcomes conversations with organizations interested in aligning with our leadership development mission.To explore partnership opportunities, contact:Dr. Patrina M. Clark, National President
[email protected]
Grateful for Our Generous Sponsors & Partners Over the Years
Sponsors and Partners
Supporters
Professional Association Partners
Contact Us
We would be glad to hear from you. Whether you are exploring membership, interested in partnership opportunities, or simply want to learn more about AAFEA, please reach out using the information below. We look forward to connecting.
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