Carolyn E. Mosby is a seasoned executive, a sought-after public speaker, and an accomplished author. Her illustrious journey is marked by remarkable milestones, showcasing her influence across diverse industries. Recently concluding an 11-year tenure as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council (Mid-States MSDC), an affiliate of the National Minority Supplier Development Council, Carolyn’s legacy shines as a strong symbol of economic empowerment. This affiliate, one of 23 in the nation, plays a pivotal role in certifying ethnic minority businesses and advocating for their growth. During her leadership, she introduced a groundbreaking diverse-owned business accelerator program, one of the largest in the nation, and fostered a staggering $19.1 billion in economic impact across three states through collaborations between minority businesses and major corporations. She was the fourth president since the council’s establishment in 1976. She recently accepted an interim role as President and Chief Executive Officer of the North Central Minority Supplier Development Council.
Beyond her impactful role at Mid-States MSDC, Carolyn’s journey is etched with influential chapters. As Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) for Kiwanis International, she led global marketing, branding, and communications strategies for the prestigious international non-profit. Her tenure as CMO was a historic milestone, marking her as the first African-American executive in the organization’s century-long history.
An integral part of Carolyn’s narrative is her deep connection to Indiana. Before she transitioned to the Ohio/Northern Kentucky region in 2006, she was Vice President of Marketing Communications for Veolia Water Indianapolis, LLC. This public-private water partnership was the largest of its kind in North America. She also served as Government and Community Affairs Manager for USX Corporation at U.S. Steel Gary Works.
Adding to her journey, Carolyn’s influence extends into community service. With her commitment evident in her roles on numerous boards of directors, she has contributed her expertise to an array of organizations, sometimes serving on as many as 15 simultaneously. Notably, she served two terms as chairman of the board for Indiana Black Expo, Inc., and was the youngest chairman of the board in the history of the organization. An advocate for education and the arts, she held leadership positions in entities such as Dance Kaleidoscope, Freetown Village, Trusted Mentors, Brooke’s Place, and more. She also is a former board member of the Indianapolis Urban League and the Urban League of Northwest Indiana.
In a consultancy capacity, Carolyn’s strategic insights have guided public figures, politicians, athletes, entertainers, corporations, and not-for-profit organizations.
Proudly hailing from Gary, Indiana, Carolyn graduated from Indiana State University in Terre Haute, IN, earning her bachelor’s degree in Radio/TV/Film Communications. Her journey included an internship with the nationally syndicated “Siskel & Ebert Show.” She also penned her autobiography, “Unflappable,” a poignant narrative of resilience, empowerment, and inspiration. Released in 2008 and published by IBJ Publishing, the book has resonated with readers seeking personal and professional upliftment.
Carolyn’s journey has garnered recognition in national publications including Black Enterprise, JET, Hope for Women, Indiana Minority Business, and Indianapolis Woman (cover story). Expanding her footprint, she established “Remembering My Mom,” an annual event celebrating women who have lost their mothers.
In recent times, Carolyn Mosby’s passion and vision led to the creation of Resilient Lens Studios, a testament to her dedication to creative expression, empowerment, and community engagement.
Mosby is also the daughter of the late Indiana State Senator Carolyn Brown Mosby (D-Gary) who authored Indiana’s minority business legislation as well as the first casino legislation that led to Gary having the first riverboat casinos in the state.
Embedded within her narrative is her devotion as a mother. With her son, Lance, aged 19, she epitomizes the values she champions — family, empowerment, and a commitment to making a lasting difference.
LinkedIn: Carolyn Mosby