Full name: Lesli Suggs
Current title & company: President and CEO, The Home for Little Wanderers
Did you have an “a-ha moment” in your career? One of my most lasting “a-ha” moments came early in my career, when I was called back for an interview for a role at The Home for Little Wanderers. I was four months pregnant and almost turned down the opportunity to stay in the running. How could I possibly do that job going on maternity leave soon after starting and with a newborn? Something inside said to take the interview anyway and I am so glad I did. What stayed with me wasn’t the interview itself—it was the realization of how often we talk ourselves out of opportunities before we ever give ourselves a chance. It would have been easy or justifiable to back out of the process. Instead, I chose to stay in the race and trust that my experience, voice and leadership mattered. I did not get the job, but I made an impression and was later called back for a different role. Had I not shown up, I might not be the CEO of The Home today. That moment reinforced an important lesson I still carry with me: don’t overthink yourself out of possibility. So many of the limits we face are the ones we place on ourselves. Show up. Be present. Take the shot. Even when the path feels uncertain, the act of stepping forward is often what moves you closer to where you’re meant to be.
Is there a mentor in your life who helped you get where you are today? As I transitioned into my role as President and CEO, I began working with an executive coach during a time of significant professional growth and change. She helped me trust my business voice, strengthen my executive presence and navigate leadership with greater confidence and clarity. That experience reinforced something I deeply believe: investing in yourself is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether through a mentor, coach or trusted advisor, having someone who can guide you, challenge you and help you articulate your goals can be transformational. I encourage both emerging and established leaders to seek out that support and make themselves a priority.
What advice would you want a 20-year-old you to hear? Always assume the best in people. Don’t burn bridges. Return emails within 24 hours. Say please and thank you. Have an inquiring heart. Lean in—and stay in it, even when things get hard. Most importantly, take chances. Careers are built on relationships, curiosity and courage. You don’t have to have everything figured out—just be willing to learn, to listen and to keep showing up.
What does success mean to you? My greatest success will always be raising my own children. Being a parent has shaped how I see the world—and it’s also what fuels my deep commitment to the mission of The Home for Little Wanderers. Knowing what every child needs to feel safe, supported and hopeful makes the work we do on behalf of children and families even more personal. That perspective drives my passion to ensure our organization continues moving forward—creating better, brighter futures for kids across the Northeast. Success, to me, is building and supporting an exceptional team that can deliver on that mission every day and knowing that, together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families who need us most.
What is something you love doing: I love riding my bike – and singing in my car. Both give me space to recharge, clear my head and reconnect with joy. Sometimes, the simplest moments are the ones that keep us grounded.