A Special Interview: October 2025
Erica Anthony, LBC ’23, shared her leadership insights with a special focus on how the LBC program and membership experience help leaders engage effectively.
What do you see as the most unique and valuable aspect of LBC?
As someone who is not originally from this area, I joined LBC to gain deeper insights into the strengths, challenges, and opportunities within the community. As both an employee of Baltimore City and a resident of Baltimore County, I was particularly interested in understanding how these two worlds intersect. More importantly, I sought to strengthen my servant leadership as an educator. The LBC experience far exceeded my expectations. Through engaging with experts across diverse industries—such as health care, government, and education—I gained invaluable perspectives that have made me a more informed and empathetic leader. This exposure enhanced my ability to better serve my students, colleagues, and community.
How do you benefit from being a Lifetime Alumni Member?
I truly value my lifetime membership because it allows me complimentary access to LBC’s many enriching programs, events, and activities. These experiences provide opportunities for meaningful connection, laughter, and personal growth—whether I’m reconnecting with fellow alumni or engaging with new leaders. Each event reinforces the importance of lifelong learning and offers valuable opportunities to continue developing and sharpening my leadership skills.
How did your LBC experience influence your community leadership?
Philanthropy has been a passion of mine for more than 30 years, and my LBC experience deepened my lifelong commitment to service. It reaffirmed my belief that every individual possesses unique gifts meant to be shared for the greater good. Prior to participating in the LBC program, I served in board capacities with organizations such as the National Society of Black Engineers, YWCA, National Black MBA Association, and Chesapeake Bay Trust. Since completing the program, I have continued this work by serving in a leadership and board role with TEDCO’s Institute for Women Entrepreneur Excellence. The LBC experience has strengthened my resolve to lead with purpose, foster collaboration, and uphold a deep sense of community responsibility.
What life experience has most shaped who you are as a leader?
Over the past few years, I have endured profound personal loss—the passing of my grandmother in 2022; my mother, father, and godmother in 2023; and most recently, my aunt in 2025. These experiences have been a powerful reminder of the importance of leading with empathy and compassion. I have learned that everyone faces unseen challenges, and as a leader, it is my responsibility to listen with care, extend grace, and create a supportive environment where others feel valued and understood.
In your opinion, what personal trait is most important to being a good leader and why?
When I first assumed my current role as Department Chair, I was told that I lead with compassion—and that observation truly resonated with me. Compassion is the cornerstone of effective leadership. It allows leaders to connect authentically with their teams, foster trust, and create spaces where people feel both supported and empowered to excel. I believe that compassionate leadership not only strengthens organizations but also nurtures the humanity that sustains them.