WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 20, 2021)—Alexandra Brown of Monroe, NC, graduated from the Blind Leaders Development Program at the American Foundation for the Blind’s (AFB) virtual commencement ceremony on April 20, 2021.

Launched in 2020, the Blind Leaders Development Program was created by AFB to increase upward mobility and create meaningful leadership experiences for individuals who are blind or low vision, who are already employed and in the beginning stages of their careers.

While in the program, Alexandra and her fellow graduates received extensive training in leadership, networking, communication, and other key skills for advancing in their careers and improving their effectiveness as they achieve higher levels of authority and influence. Other facets of the program included following the Leadership Challenge curriculum, attending a series of webinars, and being paired with a successful blind or low vision mentor who could provide honest advice and feedback about what it takes to succeed in the workforce. That Alexandra successfully completed this rigorous program during the height of the coronavirus pandemic only makes her accomplishment all the more noteworthy.

Alexandra has experience in clinical trial regulatory and start-up operations, and is currently a remote administrative research analyst at the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Employment Security. Prior to this role she served as a research consultant in data analysis for the Hamilton Health Sciences Centre for Paramedic Education & Research. Additionally, she competes in triathlons and is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer. Alexandra has a passion for helping others and wants to advance her career in health and medical research. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Research from the University of North Carolina-Wilmington.

“These fifteen professionals, including Alexandra, have honed their knowledge and skills to take on greater authority and responsibilities in their professional fields,” said Kirk Adams, Ph.D., AFB president and CEO. “Thanks to their hard work and the work of their mentors, for whom we are all grateful, Alexandra and her fellow graduates now have the imperative to create and sustain a more inclusive workforce. Their accomplishments augur well for both their own careers and the world at large.”

For more information, visit AFB.org/BLDP.