Asandi S. Conner is a dynamic and vulnerable leader for-impact with a passion for human development and honoring voices. Asandi is a talented verbal and written communicator with interpersonal relations expertise and a demonstrated ability to lead organizations and teams. She is a thoughtful and creative problem-solver and observer who is driven by integrity and mission. Asandi’s work with the Detroit Revitalization Fellows has helped in building leadership capacity and economic development in Detroit.

Asandi’s career started as a Principal of The Conner Group, LLC, where she worked for over five years before moving on to become the Director of the Detroit Revitalization Fellows. During her time at the Detroit Revitalization Fellows, Asandi supported the execution of strategic and operational plans for the program of the Office of Economic Development. She fostered a professional environment that nurtured fellows across cohorts during and after their fellowship. Asandi assessed and ensured continuous improvement in program design, development and implementation. She collaborated with the Director to lead the creation and implementation of the program’s long-term strategy and assisted with identifying and cultivating potential employers, fellows and funders through networking and relationship building. These relationships allowed her to develop a deep understanding of their wants, needs, and motivations. Asandi worked with fellows to facilitate their transition out of their two-year fellowship employment into a nurturing and sustainable work environment. She also planned and led cross-cohort events to help build meaningful relationships between current fellows and alumni as well as provide mentorship and coaching resources to fellows and their employers.

Asandi’s passion for human development and building leadership capacity for Detroiters of color was evident during her time as the Director of the Detroit Revitalization Fellows. In March 2018, she participated in the Urban Consulate Parlor Talk, where she spoke about how to stop overlooking local talent and build leadership capacity for Detroiters of color. Asandi was instrumental in bringing diversity, equity, and inclusion to the Detroit Revitalization Fellows, ensuring that fellows from all backgrounds were given an opportunity to grow and excel.

Asandi’s work at Detroit Revitalization Fellows has helped in creating a pipeline of diverse and effective leaders in Detroit. Her dedication to creating opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds to thrive is unmatched. Asandi’s leadership and passion for building strong and sustainable communities have led to her current position as the Director of the Detroit Equity Action Lab at Wayne State University Law School. Asandi is a trailblazer and an inspiration to many, and her impact on Detroit and the community at large is immeasurable.