About Us – Felix Leadership Academy

Our Story

Teaching and learning are at the core of our past, present, and future.

Background

In our increasingly interconnected world, professionals are often required to wear multiple hats, blending expertise from diverse fields to create meaningful impact. For those with a strong foundation in leadership development, community engagement, and academic research, the potential to influence positive change is vast.

Our commitment lies in transforming leadership, professional growth, and education through both research and practical application. Grounded in the disciplines of teaching, psychology, sociology, adult, professional, and community education, and further enriched by real-world experiences, we bring a unique approach to leadership and professional development.

Our programs are tailored to meet the needs of emerging leaders, mid-career professionals, and senior executives. Participants can expect to gain enhanced leadership skills, achieve career advancements, and drive increased organizational effectiveness.

Things That Make us Proud

Our Mission

Felix Leadership Academy is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations through transformative education, research, and the practical application of leadership and professional development theories. By fostering a thorough understanding of leadership dynamics and equipping individuals with the tools to navigate complex challenges and enhance their professional development, we aim to inspire sustainable growth and significant outcomes within organizations and communities.

Our Goals

We aspire to cultivate a new generation of leaders and professionals who are not only skilled in navigating organizational challenges but also strongly committed to fostering inclusive, emotionally intelligent, and sustainable leadership and professional practices. Through a focus on adult education, community engagement, and research-driven strategies, Felix Leadership Academy seeks to bridge the gap between theory and practice, enabling individuals to drive positive change and achieve excellence in their respective fields.

Why Felix?

The name “Felix” is derived from the Latin word meaning “happy” or “fortunate.” It embodies the spirit of optimism, success, and growth. This name reflects our mission to empower individuals by fostering a sense of achievement and joy in their educational and leadership journey. It also aligns with our values of positivity, progress, and creating opportunities for individuals to thrive in their personal and professional lives. By choosing a name that conveys happiness and good fortune, Felix Leadership Academy resonates with a target audience seeking transformative learning experiences that lead to brighter futures.

The logo features the Aquila star constellation, which adds a profound layer of meaning to the brand’s identity. Aquila symbolizes the eagle in mythology. It represents strength, vision, and soaring to new heights which are all qualities that align with the themes of education, growth, and innovation. The constellation itself evokes a sense of wonder and exploration, inspiring individuals to reach for the stars and embrace the limitless possibilities of knowledge.

Visually, the Aquila constellation in the logo serves as a beacon of guidance and aspiration. Its celestial design instills trust by suggesting stability and reliability while also sparking curiosity and engagement. The connection between the logo and the name “Felix” creates a harmonious narrative. Just as the stars guide travelers, Felix Leadership Academy serves as a guiding light for individuals on their journey toward success and fulfillment.

Dr. Usha Brandon

Ph.D. in Adult, Professional, and Community Education (Texas State University)

Meet Our Founder

My professional journey began in Jamaica, where I served as an elementary educator and developed a passion for teaching and community development. Over time, my career evolved to encompass roles that integrate education, leadership, and research, with a particular focus on adult education, emotional intelligence, and leadership development.

More than a decade ago, I began working with different levels of government and community-based organizations (CBOs), experiences that provided me with valuable insights into the spectrum of leadership, ranging from highly effective to critically deficient. I witnessed firsthand how poor leadership adversely impacts organizations and their staff, as well as the challenges faced by leaders who lack the skills and knowledge necessary to guide their team towards achieving organizational goals.

These experiences highlighted the critical need for leaders to be equipped with the skills and knowledge to guide their teams effectively. Inspired by emotional intelligence and ecological systems theories, I delved into understanding the unique challenges faced by CBO leaders and how these frameworks could empower them, culminating in research that emphasize their application in professional development for impactful and sustainable leadership.

My vision is to see leaders fully equipped to realize their highest potential, navigate complex organizational dynamics, and address challenges with confidence and competence.

Advisory Board

Dr. Clarena Larrotta

Board Member

Professor of Adult, Professional, & Community Education | Honorary Professor of International Studies | Service-Learning Excellence Fellow | Texas State University