MEET MORE OF OUR 2025 WOMEN OF DISTINCTION
When Angela Adams first arrived in Milwaukee, she was only supposed to stay for 18 months. She was here to launch a new sales force for Pfizer, and when that was done, she planned to return to the company headquarters in New York City. But then she fell in love with her future husband – and then with the city.
Adams planted roots in Milwaukee, not just building a career here but giving back to the community. In 2024, she stepped up as interim CEO of the African American Leadership Alliance of Milwaukee, and in March this year took on the president and CEO position.
The nonprofit, founded in 2017, is an alliance of community stakeholders committed to Milwaukee becoming a global destination where African American leaders thrive and prosper. The organization was built on the foundation of the African American Leadership Program, which first launched in 2008.
“Leadership is not about a position. It’s about a way of being,” says Adams, who is a certified high-performance coach, sits on the board of regents at the University of Wisconsin system, and is the mother of three daughters. “AALAM offers a transformation experience focused on leading self, first. Who are you and how do you show up?”
Over 260 Milwaukeeans have now completed AALAM’s signature program AALP, and under Adams’ leadership the organization is deepening its alumni engagement and growing new leadership development offerings to advance the regional talent strategy.
“Lead with confidence. Stay rooted in your personal values. And never underestimate the power of relationships.”
Q&A
What motivates your work?
The people who shaped my life, who I’ve always admired, were all leaders. As the best version of myself now, my goal is to always cultivate that in others. It’s a mindset. It’s a way of life.
What advice do you have for women who want to pursue a career like yours?
Lead with confidence. Stay rooted in your personal values. And never underestimate the power of relationships. Surround yourself with people who want to see you succeed but who also challenge you.
