We are an institute who specializes in culturally responsive leadership.
We provide innovative strategies and culturally competent solutions to organizations large and small. Our team of educators, strategists, and leaders are dedicated to enhancing the voices of today and developing the change agents of tomorrow
Our Founders
Jeff Dess is an author of six books and is a seasoned professional in higher education. Lenny Williams is a professor within the business departments at multiple institutions, with an MBA.
Both men have traveled nationwide and abroad as public speakers, educators, and co-founders of the Leadership Institute, Trill or Not Trill which focuses on culturally responsive leadership and student development.
With just over 25 years of combined experience in Higher Education, Lenny and Jeff have dedicated their careers towards changing lives and disrupting success. They have spoken to over 500,000 students at colleges, universities, conferences, barbershops, pizzerias and more. Between the two of them, they have appeared on CBS, Fox 5 New York, TedX, The Boston Globe, Ebony Magazine, Black Enterprise, The Root, and Hot 97. From working with, consulting and presenting for the NFL, TEDX, Twitter, Buzzfeed, NASPA, NCSL, and The NSLS. Their new text, We Wear Kicks To Work discusses the intersection of pop culture and leadership and education is an Amazon best seller.Now we must say, Lenny is a Chicago Bulls Fan and Jeff continues to painfully root for the New York Knicks but for some reason they are still great friends and colleagues who are dedicated to changing the world of higher education and beyond.
We collaborated with companies and schools
Our partnerships are diverse! We’ve prepared and educated students at the largest colleges and universities in the nation. We’ve worked with disruptive startups and industry leaders. We’ve fortified relationships with professionals from varying fields and areas of expertise
Partners and Faculty
Our team of educators and partners are considered faculty! They lead with integrity, with a commitment to excellence. Their experience is extensive and valued