In this semester’s second Against All Odds speaker series, powered by Bank of America, Thasunda Brown Duckett detailed her journey of leadership and financial empowerment that led her to become one of only two Black women serving as CEOs of Fortune 100 companies.
December 09, 2024
By Alexandria Salinas
“Against all odds, I’m here,” declared Thasunda Brown Duckett, a trailblazer in corporate leadership, as she kicked off a 90-minute conversation and lesson on leadership, turning barriers into breakthroughs and redefining life balance.
Duckett, CEO and president of TIAA, a corporation that offers financial services and secure retirement with more than $1.2 trillion in assets under management, captivated a full room of students, faculty, staff and guests at Shaddock Auditorium in the TCU Neeley School of Business.
Duckett shared her journey to leading a Fortune 100 company and being recognized by TIME as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World, and emphasized the resilience, emotional intelligence and mentorship that influenced her along the way.
“I wasn’t given the easy road,” she said. “But I did have my roots. My parents taught me to find my grit and never stop pushing forward.” Her words were a powerful reminder that success requires more than hard work; it demands self-belief and the ability to connect with others to find commonality.
The Against All Odds Series, powered by Bank of America, is hosted by the TCU Neeley Office of Inclusive Excellence with the purpose of amplifying the voices of diverse business leaders and demonstrating the skills needed to overcome obstacles.
Craig Crossland, the John V. Roach Dean of the Neeley School of Business, said the Against All Odds series showcases the school’s values of leadership, innovation and inclusive excellence, and “represents not only who we are, but who we aspire to be.”
D’Avia Raglin ’09, an alumna who flew from Houston for the day to attend the Friday afternoon event, described the day trip to attend Against All Odds as a form of self-investment.
“The wealth of knowledge and inspiration I gained were invaluable,” Raglin said. “Even with a cost [for the flight], it was well worth it. I left with so much information and motivation. You can’t put a price tag on that.”
Raglin connected with Duckett’s advice to embrace moments of unease and look for ways you can relate to others.
“She talked about getting comfortable in uncomfortable spaces. You might be the youngest, the only female, or the only minority, but sharing your story helps you connect with others—and that will take you far,” Raglin said.
Duckett recounted times when the odds were stacked against her, and she used emotional intelligence to navigate difficult situations and lead effectively.
“Pressure is a privilege,” Duckett said. “I never shied away from it because I knew every challenge was an opportunity to grow.”
Her insights resonated deeply with students.
"She presented a compelling angle on what it takes to run your life as well as a successful business," said Jason Eickhoff, a junior finance major. "Her message on leadership really resonated with me because it’s not just about hitting numbers—it’s about understanding people."
Alex Barrera, a junior finance major, appreciated Duckett’s overall outlook. "I enjoyed her ‘setbacks are setups’ view and how that perspective shift will set you apart and launch your career," he said.
TCU Vice Chancellor and Chief Human Resources Officer Yohna Chambers-Hastings moderated the event and frequently leaned into Duckett’s leadership experience with her questions.
“Many lessons are learned early in our careers. We describe mentors as people in our lives who see us fall, but never let us hit the ground,” said Chambers-Hastings, before asking Duckett to share an early lesson that shaped her leadership.
“Advocacy is not just a skill—it’s a responsibility,” Duckett said. “I’ve had advocates who pulled me up when I couldn’t see my own potential. They didn’t let me hit the ground, and I’ve made it my mission to do the same for others.”
Duckett urged the audience to find their purpose and define themselves by their strengths. "Know your ownable assets," she said. "Define yourself by your curiosity and determination. That’s how you make an impact."
