Mellody Hobson

Mellody Hobson, a respected figure in the financial and philanthropic sectors, holds the position of Co-CEO and President of Ariel Investments. Her leadership extends to the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Ariel Investment Trust. In addition, she serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Starbucks Corporation, and previously held the position of Chairman of the Board of DreamWorks Animation. Her board memberships also span a variety of sectors including the Estée Lauder Companies and the Investment Company Institute's executive committee.

Her dedication to community service is evident through her role as Chair of After School Matters, a non-profit organization based in Chicago. Furthermore, she holds the position of Vice Chair of World Business Chicago and co-chair of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, underlining her commitment to both business and the arts. Her board memberships in the George Lucas Education Foundation, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) further demonstrate her wide-ranging influence and interests.

Recognition of Hobson's influence is global, with Time Magazine naming her one of the "100 Most Influential People" in the world in 2015. As a member of prestigious organizations such as the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and The Rockefeller Foundation Board of Trustees, her perspectives reflect a deep understanding of both financial and societal issues. Her diversified experience and insights make her a respected voice across multiple platforms.