Desiree Rogers (MBA 1985), Co-Owner and CEO of Black Opal, to be 2024 Class Day Speaker

Last Updated on April 19, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

Desiree Rogers, the dynamic co-owner and CEO of Black Opal LLC, has been selected as the Class Day Speaker at Harvard Business School on May 22, 2024. Known for her transformative leadership style and dedication to merging business with community involvement, Rogers is expected to deliver an inspiring speech to the graduating students.

Rogers has been instrumental in reviving the Black Opal and Fashion Fair Cosmetics brands, which cater to people of color. Her impressive career includes leadership roles at the Illinois Lottery, Peoples Energy, and Allstate, as well as serving as Special Assistant and Social Secretary to President Obama, where she organized numerous cultural events.

After her time in the White House, Rogers took on the role of CEO at Johnson Publishing, where she successfully transitioned Ebony and Jet magazines into the digital age. She also made a significant impact as chairman of Choose Chicago’s tourism board, overseeing a highly successful digital marketing campaign.

With a BA in political science from Wellesley College and board positions at Inspired Entertainment and Stagwell Global Media, Rogers brings a wealth of experience to the HBS Class Day ceremony. This event, which precedes Harvard University’s Commencement, is open to graduating students, alumni, faculty, and staff.

For more information on the HBS Class Day ceremony and other details about Harvard Business School’s 2024 Commencement, visit the official website. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from this influential business leader as she imparts wisdom and guidance to the next generation of graduates.