WILMA’s Leadership Institute: Meet Erika Tucker
Snapshot of this year's Leadership Institute members
WILMA’s 2026 Leadership Institute, an annual nine-month program, gives area women the opportunity to learn from leaders in the region, visit a range of local companies, and serve as each other’s personal board of directors.
WILMA’s Leadership Institute, an annual nine-month program, gives area women the opportunity to learn from leaders in the region, visit a range of local companies, and serve as each other’s personal board of directors. The program is part of the WILMA Leadership Initiative, created to empower women to lead with confidence and purpose. Meet institute member ERIKA TUCKER.
Erika Tucker
Title: Founder/ Director
Company: Pajama Jams for Youth, Inc. / Sundara Textiles
How long have you been with your current employer? 18 years
Alma Mater: Fashion Institute of Technology, SUNY, BFA Norfolk State University, MFA
Prior career experience: Early career focused on textile design, visual arts, and creative development BFA in Textile Design & Fashion Marketing, Fashion Institute of Technology MFA in Visual Studies (Printmaking & Photography), Norfolk State University Experience in textile-related environments and creative roles, developing a foundation in fabric, design, and production Strong background in visual storytelling, materials, and craftsmanship Active involvement in community initiatives and event coordination Leadership experience within military family communities, supporting engagement and outreach efforts Developed organizational, communication, and leadership skills that led to founding Pajama Jams and later Sundara Textiles
Current job responsibilities: As Founder and Executive Director of Pajama Jams for Youth, Inc., I oversee all aspects of organizational leadership, including strategic planning, program development, fundraising, and community partnerships. I lead multi-state pajama drives, manage volunteer networks, and guide the expansion of our chapter model and “Dreams in Comfort” sleep wellness initiative. I am responsible for budgeting, grant writing, donor relations, and ensuring the organization’s continued growth and impact. As Founder and Creative Director of Sundara Textiles, I manage the full scope of a social-impact business, including product design, production, supply chain coordination with artisan partners in India, financial planning, marketing, and e-commerce operations. I also oversee brand strategy, content creation, and paid advertising, while developing and managing the Pajama Promise give-back model that directly supports Pajama Jams.
Hobbies: Traveling and exploring new cultures, interior styling and home design, visiting local boutiques, markets, and artisan shops, walking and spending time outdoors, exercise, yoga, pilates, supporting community events and volunteering, reading and exploring topics related to wellness, leadership, and social impact, spending time with family, and caring for my dogs
To learn more about WILMA’s Leadership Institute and Initiative, go to https://www.wilmamag.com/leadership/
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