Tawanna Black

Tawanna A. Black is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Economic Inclusion, a nationally recognized organization dedicated to closing racial income, employment, and wealth gaps and building inclusive regional economies.14 She founded the Center in 2017, making it the first Black woman-founded and led organization of its kind in the United States.1

With over 20 years of experience, Tawanna is known for her expertise in developing racially inclusive and equitable strategies for businesses, focusing on areas such as talent, supply chain, philanthropy, and marketing.3 Her work aims to produce transformational results for businesses, consumers, and communities.3

Career Highlights

• Founder and CEO of the Center for Economic Inclusion (2017-present)14
• Executive Director of Northside Funders Group (2013-2018)2
• Director of Diversity for Cox Communications (prior to moving to Minnesota)2
• Executive Director for Destination Midtown in Omaha, Nebraska2

Achievements and Recognition

• Named 2021 Person of the Year by Twin Cities Business magazine1
• Recognized as a 2021 History Maker by the City of Minneapolis1
• Listed among Top 25 Disrupters on Race by Living Cities in 20171
• Received the Women Presidents Organization Leading Business Owners of Color Award in 20221

Education and Professional Development

• Bachelor's degree in Public Administration from Washburn University24
• Completed the Harvard Business School Young American Leaders Program in 20152
• Executive Certificate in Transformational Leadership from Georgetown University in 20152

Board Memberships and Affiliations

Tawanna has served on over 35 nonprofit and philanthropic boards. Currently, she serves on:

• LIIF Board1
• Minnesota Tech Association Board14
• Washburn University Alumni Foundation Board of Trustees14
• Minnesota Council of Churches Board1

Tawanna resides in the Twin Cities with her husband, Eric Black, and their two children, Traviata and Christian.14