WCNY’s Leads Councils have been a major source of business growth and success for New York region alumni for over 10 years, including the sale of a business and winning a $100,000 contract. Now WCNY is relaunching the Leads Councils, giving them a boost by hiring a Wharton alum, Melissa Amaya, W’03, as the Leads Council Coordinator.
Melissa answered questions for potential Leads Council members.

What is the purpose of the Leads Councils?

To network with fellow alumni who are both successful enough and serious enough to commit to a council as a
Silver* supporting member of the Wharton Club of NY. At the fraction of the cost compared to commercial lead
generating organizations like LeTip and BNI, our Wharton Leads Councils connect you with the best of the best so
you can grow your business.

Where do they currently meet?

Councils currently meet the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6pm on 41st Street between Madison and 5th
Avenue and the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at 7pm near 40th and Lexington. We are starting a new group in Western Long Island.

Can you describe your role?

I oversee the groups — and thus act as the point of contact for anyone interested in joining a Leads Council.
I coordinate placing members in suitable Leads Councils — and find chairs for new councils. I also speak with and
coach each new and current member to help them get as much out of the program as possible.

Who benefits from joining Leads Councils?

Those striving to develop new business or seek new clients — whether as an entrepreneur or within a major
corporation.

Can any Wharton alum join a Leads Council?

Leads Council members must be a supporting-level member of WCNY at the Silver Level ($500 annual dues) or above. Members will be placed in councils based on their industry to ensure that each council remains noncompetitive. Once members are in a council, they must commit to the group to hold their exclusive spots. Commitment is demonstrated by regular attendance and actively participating by way of providing introductions and passing along leads.

Which industries are the Leads Councils looking for?

There are openings for occupations in real estate brokering, accounting, banking, IT consulting, management consulting, advertising, marketing and more!

How can Club members find out more information about the Leads Councils?

Sign into the Club website at www.whartonny.com. Then choose “Groups” in the top menu, and then choose
“Leads Councils.” Inquiries can be directed to leads@whartonny.com.

There are 30,000 Wharton alumni in the New York area – how valuable is that network to you? 