Blueprints of Resilience: Cornelius Griggs’ Rise from Chicago’s Streets to Business Leader

On this episode of  “Awake in the Network: Where Destiny Happens,” we’re honored to feature Cornelius Griggs, a testament to the extraordinary potential of human resilience and vision, particularly relevant to our audience of thought leaders and business executives. Cornelius’ life story is a powerful embodiment of the notion that destiny can emerge from the most unexpected places.

Cornelius’ journey began in the foster care system and the challenging neighborhoods of Chicago, where he navigated homelessness and violence. Despite these hardships, mentorship played a pivotal role in his life, steering him toward education as a gateway to success. His pursuit of knowledge led to degrees from Chicago State University, Illinois Institute of Technology, and Northwestern University, and his dedication to service was evident through his honorable military tours in Qatar and Iraq, for which he received an Army Commendation Medal.

As the President of GMA Construction Group, Cornelius has demonstrated exceptional leadership in a complex and impactful field. His firm, a Minority and Veteran-Owned business, specializes in General Contracting, Construction Management, Design-Build, and Cost Engineering services. Under his guidance, GMA Construction, established from a humble home office in 2009, has grown into a major enterprise with significant reach and influence. The company’s remarkable growth, expanding from $1 million in sales in 2015 to $40 million in 2020, is a testament to Cornelius’ strategic vision and leadership.

The scope of Cornelius’ impact is further broadened through his leadership of GRE Ventures LLC, focusing on creating affordable housing in disadvantaged communities. This venture reflects his deep commitment to social equity and his desire to uplift those in challenging circumstances.

Cornelius’ story is not just one of professional achievements but also of profound community engagement and service. He has served in numerous capacities, including as a Board Member for Introspect Youth Services and a Commissioner at the Chicago Community Development Commission. His work in these roles underscores his dedication to community upliftment and empowerment.

In our dialogue with Cornelius on “Awake in the Network,” we delve into how his life’s challenges and triumphs shaped his destiny. His narrative is a beacon for our listeners, demonstrating that one can achieve personal success and significantly impact others’ lives through resilience, education, and community involvement. Cornelius Griggs’ journey perfectly aligns with the heart and theme of our podcast, embodying the realization of destiny through adversity, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to positive change.