Nneka Chiazor is passionate about creating a culture of belonging.
Born in St John’s, Newfoundland, and raised in Montreal and Lagos, Nigeria, Chiazor is the vice-president of government and public affairs at Cox Communications, the third-largest cable provider in the United States.
Chiazor leads a team responsible for community affairs, media and government relations and employee communications. She also sits on the company’s National Diversity Council.
"My mission is to bridge divides of all kinds — digital and otherwise. That’s why I’m proud of the work we’ve done at Cox to connect thousands of people during the pandemic," Chiazor says.
She has been recognized by Washingtonian's Outstanding Women in Washington and by Urban One for Engaging Black America.
Proudest moment
"Leading my team through the COVID-19 pandemic was a career milestone. I’m so proud of what we accomplished by putting mental health at the forefront, engaging the community and running food drives. Everyone is talking about people quitting their jobs, but my team is still here — we survived and thrived."
Career challenge
"While working on a billing program in the United States, someone told me to ‘go back to my country’. It was a tough moment but I turned it into a learning moment. I told him I was in the U.S. on a North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) visa. You need a high grade-point average to qualify for that visa. Since then, I’ve met other Concordians — we’re great exports thanks to our education."
The Concordia factor
"My degree set me on a great path. Computer science is a language that can take you anywhere in the world."
Memorable experience at university
"I was president of the African Students’ Association of Concordia. Once we’d finish our committee meetings, we’d dash down the escalator to grab a drink at Reggie’s. It brings back so many fond memories."
Words of wisdom
"Maya Angelou said, 'People will never forget how you made them feel.' That’s why I always try to leave people feeling better than when I found them.”