PRESS RELEASE
Dina Powell McCormick, former U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor and longtime business executive, will visit New Canaan Library on April 2, 2025, to discuss her latest book, Who Believed in You?, co-authored with her husband, David McCormick. The event, hosted by Library CEO Ellen Sullivan Crovatto, will take place in the Jim & Dede Bartlett Auditorium from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Attendees must register in advance, with tickets available through Eventbrite, and each ticket includes a copy of the book. A book signing, facilitated by Elm Street Books, will follow the discussion.
McCormick’s book explores the crucial role of mentorship in shaping lives and careers. Drawing from her own experiences—beginning with her family’s immigration to the United States from Egypt—she examines how strong mentorship has influenced not only her own journey but also the paths of some of the country’s most accomplished leaders.
During the conversation, McCormick will highlight the book’s central themes: trust, shared values, meaningful commitment, and instilling confidence. She will share insights from industry leaders, including Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, fashion entrepreneur Tory Burch, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, and film producer Brian Grazer. The book serves as both a testament to the power of mentorship and a guide for those seeking to foster impactful professional relationships.
A Career Shaped by Mentorship
McCormick’s career spans both public service and the private sector. She spent 16 years in leadership roles at Goldman Sachs, serving on the management committee and as President of the Goldman Sachs Foundation. In that role, she developed major mentorship initiatives such as 10,000 Women, 10,000 Small Businesses, and One Million Black Women—programs designed to provide education, capital, and mentorship to underrepresented groups.
In 2017, she joined the Trump administration as Deputy National Security Advisor, focusing on diplomacy and economic development. She later returned to finance and is currently Vice Chairman of BDT & MSD Partners, an investment firm advising businesses and entrepreneurs.
Her work in both government and business has reinforced her belief in the power of mentorship to change lives, a message central to Who Believed in You? The book details stories of mentors who identified potential in young professionals and guided them toward success, emphasizing that leadership is often built on the encouragement and support of others.
The Library’s Ongoing Commitment to Lifelong Learning
New Canaan Library has long been a hub for education and cultural enrichment. By bringing in authors, thought leaders, and industry experts, the library continues its mission of fostering lifelong learning and meaningful community engagement.
“Dina Powell McCormick’s career is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship,” said Heather Cimino, the library’s Adult Programs Coordinator. “Her insights will inspire attendees to reflect on the role mentorship has played in their own lives and consider how they might pay it forward.”
With mentorship a central theme in professional growth across industries, the event is expected to draw a broad audience, from business professionals to young leaders seeking guidance in their careers.
For more information, contact Heather Cimino at hcimino@newcanaanlibrary.org or visit newcanaanlibrary.org.
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, April 2, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Jim & Dede Bartlett Auditorium, New Canaan Library
Tickets: Available on Eventbrite, includes a copy of Who Believed in You?
Book Signing: Hosted by Elm Street Books following the event
McCormick’s visit marks another significant event in the library’s calendar, reinforcing its role as a center for intellectual exchange and professional development.
