Jill Abruzese Slye

Jill Abruzese Slye has an extensive background in both academia and professional development, with over 30 years of business experience that she now brings into her teaching roles at Harvard University. She specializes in public speaking, leadership communication, and advanced presentation skills, providing valuable guidance to a diverse array of students and professionals.

Through her company, Jill Slye, LLC (formerly A Sounding Board LLC), she has worked with executives and teams across multiple industries — such as marketing, finance, healthcare, technology, and law — to sharpen their communication skills. Her international reach has allowed her to shape the professional capabilities of leaders and aspiring leaders worldwide.

In recognition of her commitment to education, Jill received the Petra Shattuck Excellence in Teaching Award in 2020 and, in 2021–22, the HESA Award for “Most Inspiring Alumni,” which honored her significant contributions to the Harvard Extension School community. She also authored Reinvesting in Your Rhetoric, a practical guide encapsulating her key teachings for clients and students alike. Adding to her extensive contributions, Jill recently took on the role of Public Speaking Consultant at the Harvard Kennedy School, where she continues to inspire and educate emerging leaders.

Programs Jill Teaches

Communication Strategies: Presenting with Impact
Essential Management Skills for Emerging Leaders
Women in Leadership: Online Program for Emerging Leaders
Women Leaders: Advancing Together