Washington – October 01, 2026 -- The Executive Leadership Council (ELC) has awarded $1.5 million in scholarships to 100 students across 46 colleges and universities, naming its Class of 2026 Scholars as the organization approaches its 40th anniversary.
Nearly three-quarters of scholars attend HBCUs
Close to 75% of the 2026 cohort are enrolled at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The group spans 46 institutions, including Howard University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, Georgia Institute of Technology, Duke University and the University of Pennsylvania.
Technology and finance dominate scholar academic fields
Twenty-five scholars are studying computer science, information technology, data or cybersecurity, while 22 are pursuing finance, investment or banking. Seventeen are focused on business, management or supply chain, and 10 are studying engineering.
Ninety-five percent of scholars hold campus leadership roles
Ninety-five percent of the 2026 class have documented leadership experience on campus, and 65% have completed internships prior to graduation. Thirty percent are first-generation college students.
"For nearly 40 years, The ELC has understood that strong leadership pipelines must be built intentionally," said Michael C. Hyter, President and CEO of The Executive Leadership Council.
Corporate donors including HSBC, Ecolab back 2026 scholarships
The 2026 scholarships are funded through named awards tied to Becton, Dickinson and Company, Cencora, Ecolab, HSBC, Lowe's, Synchrony and The Coca-Cola Foundation, among other legacy and signature funds.
ELC's 40th anniversary gala set for October 30 in Maryland
The ELC, founded in 1986, will mark its 40th anniversary during Gala Week, running October 28-31 at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. The October 30 gala, hosted by Kevin Frazier and featuring a performance by Chaka Khan, is expected to draw more than 3,000 members, students and executives. Gala Week also includes the Honors Symposium connecting scholars with hiring managers, a Mid-Level Managers' Symposium, and the Corporate Board Navigator program for members preparing for board service.