Leading the Way
Research & Thought Leadership
We leverage the power of research, thought leadership, and development to advance equity in the corporate sector and beyond.
Our Work
ATLAS
Ascend’s landmark study uncovers what truly motivates today’s workforce—and how organizations can act on these insights.
The ATLAS 2026 report is now available.
Ascend BoardView 2026
The Ascend BoardView 2026 Edition report continues our look at how boards are tapping into a wealth of Asian talent.
In a world marked by rapid technological advancements, shifting geopolitical landscapes, economic volatility, climate challenges, and evolving societal norms, the demand for inclusive and visionary leadership in America’s corporate boardrooms has never been greater.
Research Library
Lost in Aggregation: The Asian Reflection in the Glass Ceiling
This report takes a closer analysis of U.S. EEOC workplace data sets disaggregated by race and gender and finds that professional Asian American men and women are the least likely to become executives in industry.
Hidden in Plain Sight: Asian American Leaders in Silicon Valley
Hidden in Plain Sight: Asian American Leaders in Silicon Valley analyzes the leadership pipeline using the 2013 employment data filed with the U.S. EEOC by five major Silicon Valley-based companies.
The Failure of Asian Success - Five Years Later
This 2014 report explores the lack of Asian American executives in Bay Area Fortune 500 companies. It identifies underdeveloped leadership skills as a key factor.
The Failure of Asian Success in the Bay Area: Asians as Corporate Executive Leaders
This report reveals the limited executive pipeline for Asians, exposing a leadership failure in the Asian executive community, known to the workforce but not to corporate management.
New York Metro Area Corporate Census: Asian American Executives
A collaborative survey by Ascend and the Asia Society evaluates the presence of Asian Americans in high-ranking executive positions among Fortune 1000 companies headquartered in the NY/NJ/CT region.
The Everest Project
This report explores women executives' role in corporate America and the impact of gender, race, ethnicity, culture, and sexual orientation on women's leadership in the global economy.