WAYNE, N.J. - TelAve -- Anna D. Banks, Founder and Managing Director of Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc., has been recognized as the L.E.A.D.S. Mentee of the Month for March 2026 through the L.E.A.D.S. Entrepreneurship Program at the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at William Paterson University.

The L.E.A.D.S. program—sponsored by M&T Bank and delivered through William Paterson University's Cotsakos College of Business—provides entrepreneurs with structured mentorship, business development training, and access to capital readiness strategies. The 13-week program combines personal development, business advancement, financial literacy, and professional development to prepare business owners for sustainable growth and scalability .

Banks was selected for this recognition based on her consistent execution, leadership presence, and ability to translate learning into real-world business application.

"Programs like L.E.A.D.S. don't just teach business—they build leaders who are ready to move," said Banks. "This experience has challenged me to sharpen my strategy, strengthen my systems, and stay focused on impact."

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As an executive coach, AI consultant, and workforce development leader, Banks is the driving force behind Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc., an organization dedicated to preparing individuals and organizations for the future of work. Her work integrates AI literacy, career readiness, and emotional intelligence to help professionals, entrepreneurs, and workforce systems move from uncertainty to implementation.

During her time in the L.E.A.D.S. program, Banks has demonstrated a strong commitment to growth, actively engaging in mentorship, refining her business model, and strengthening her positioning for expansion into workforce and public-sector partnerships.

The L.E.A.D.S. program includes key milestones such as mentor matching, pitch preparation, and a formal pitch competition scheduled for May 14, 2026, followed by graduation on May 19, 2026, at William Paterson University .

Banks' recognition as Mentee of the Month reflects not only her individual progress, but also her broader mission—to build systems that prepare people, not just businesses, for long-term success.

About Anna D. Banks

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Anna D. Banks is an Executive Coach, AI Consultant, and Founder of Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc. With more than 20 years of experience in leadership development and workforce training, she partners with organizations, educators, and public agencies to deliver AI literacy, career readiness, and leadership programs aligned with measurable outcomes.

About Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc.
Thrive Leadership Institute, Inc. equips individuals and organizations with the tools, strategies, and systems needed to lead, adapt, and succeed in a rapidly evolving workforce. The organization specializes in AI literacy, leadership development, and workforce readiness solutions. VISIT https://ThriveLeadershipInstituteInc.com

About the L.E.A.D.S. Program
The L.E.A.D.S. Entrepreneurship Program at the SBDC at William Paterson University is designed to support emerging and growing entrepreneurs through mentorship, structured training, and access to resources that drive business success.