Cheryl Mayberry McKissack

President and Co-Owner at Black Opal and Fashion Fair

Cheryl McKissack is a dynamic and inspirational leader known for driving growth through building exceptional management teams, spearheading digital transformations, mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, securing investments, and tapping into diverse markets.

As the CEO and Founder of Nia Enterprises, established in 2000, Cheryl focuses on enhancing revenue growth and implementing data-driven strategies for entrepreneurial ventures and start-ups. Her expertise has benefitted various Fortune 500 companies like L'Oréal, Mondelez, and Namaste Laboratories.

With a track record of revolutionizing digital technology and overseeing business evolution at renowned entities such as Ebony Media Operations, Johnson Publishing, US Robotics, and Open Port Technologies, Cheryl's experience is enriched by her early tenure at IBM.

Cheryl's profound understanding of the challenges encountered by start-ups and entrepreneurs is rooted in her own endeavors, having founded Nia Enterprises LLC and One Moment in Time, a ground-breaking women's formal wear venture.

Combining her practical knowledge with academic acumen, Cheryl served as an Associate Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, where she inspired and guided future business leaders. Her educational background includes a Bachelor's in Political Science from Seattle University and an MBA from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management.

Throughout her career, Cheryl has held pivotal roles such as President and Co-Owner at Black Opal LLC, CEO & Founder of Nia Enterprises, LLC, Chief Executive Officer at Ebony Media Operations, COO & President of Digital Media at Johnson Publishing Company, and Worldwide SVP & General Manager at Open Port Technology. She has also contributed her expertise as the VP of the Americas at USRobotics.

Cheryl's commitment to fostering talent and driving innovation has made her a prominent figure in the business landscape, paving the way for future generations of entrepreneurs and business professionals.

As a board member, author, speaker, and mentor, Cheryl McKissack continues to inspire and empower individuals to reach their full potential in the business world.