Tonie Leatherberry, known for her strategic vision and leadership, is a successor in the business world. She’s held notable roles over the years, including president of the Deloitte Foundation and Chief Diversity Officer for Deloitte Consulting, where she coached senior executives on transforming their organizations.
Leatherberry contributed significantly to the success of Deloitte as a consultant to some of its most prominent clients. Leatherberry, trained as a software designer and mechanical engineer, had more than consulting experience. She was also an equity owner in the world's largest privately held professional services firm.
Despite all her achievements, she still desired to assist even more people. Her passion for equity through opportunity and education has always been the driving force behind Leatherberry's devotion. She has seen directly how many businesses had trouble getting representation at the highest levels of their organizations.
“This global experience has provided me with an ability to be a student of people dynamics and an observer of behavior,” Leatherberry said.
She had been fortunate enough to have leaders who saw her potential and helped her navigate the complexities of the corporate world. It was this kind of mentorship, she believed, that could make all the difference for others.
“I spend a lot of time developing women and under-represented minorities. Often, their exposure is limited, and they struggle to position themselves successfully,” Leatherberry said.
The Rutgers Level 2 ICF-certified Coaching Program aligned perfectly with Leatherberry’s goals. The program’s emphasis on inclusivity and its focus on unleashing human potential spoke to her core values.
“The alumni network is invaluable,” Larsen says. “We continue to learn from each other and build each other up.”
In a cohort where students can help each other with practical applications, the power of diversity through background and experience was welcoming and remarkable. Leatherberry was enlightened by the opportunity to deepen her skills and bring her perspective into a space where inclusion and collective contributions were valued.
For Leatherberry, this was the next step in fulfilling her vision, which was to help others, create pathways, and empower the next generation of leaders. Looking toward the future, she reflected on the words that had guided her career.
For more information about ICF Certification or the program at Rutgers, please visit the Professional Certificate in Leadership Coaching for Organizational Performance Program website or call Dana Bernstein at 732-331-3303.
