About Me
Dr. Sylvia Bartley
My life’s work has been rooted in one guiding belief that leadership should serve a greater good.
About Me
Dr. Sylvia Bartley
My life’s work has been rooted in one guiding belief that leadership should serve a greater good.
Awards & Recognition
I’m humbled and honored to have my work recognized by organizations committed to purpose, equity, and social impact. These acknowledgments reflect the collective efforts of the communities, colleagues, and changemakers I’ve had the privilege to work alongside.
Selected Honors include:
- Top 100 Most Influential & Powerful Black Britons (2019–2025)
- PwC Purpose Award – The Powerlist – 2023
- Medtronic HR Stewardship Award (2021)
- AALF Community Impact Award (2020)
- Minneapolis and St. Paul Business Journal – Women in Business Award (2017)
- Minneapolis and St. Paul Business Journal – Diversity in Business Award (2013)
- Bush Fellowship (2014)
- AARP/Pollen 50 Over 50 Honoree (2013)
Community Leadership
My lifelong commitment to community is rooted in the belief that meaningful change happens when people come together with clarity, compassion, and courage.
I draw from my background in neuroscience and executive leadership to engage communities through:
- Thought-provoking presentations on transformational leadership
- Conversations at the intersection of emotional well-being and spirituality
- Mentorship for students, corporate middle managers, and senior leaders
I’ve also worked to bridge corporations and communities—helping drive shared impact through initiatives focused on:
- Economic development
- Advancing health equity
- Expanding access to education
Whether through advocacy, storytelling, broadcasting, or behind-the-scenes collaboration, I remain deeply committed to advancing lasting, purpose-driven change.
Board Service
It’s been a privilege to serve on boards that are mission-driven, equity-focused, and committed to community transformation. My roles have included Founding Chair, Secretary, Vice Chair, and Regent, helping guide strategy, governance, operations and impact.
Current & Past Board Appointments Includes:
- Vice Chair, Johnson STEM Activity Center (2019–present)
- External Advisory Board Member, Georgia Tech & Emory Wallace H. Coulter Dept. of Biomedical Engineering (2021–present)
- Board of Regents, Augsburg University (2019–2023; reappointed 2024–present)
- Co-Chair, African American Leadership Forum – Twin Cities (2015–2023)