Post by Black Women On Boards

It was 102 years ago this month that the legendary Patricia Roberts Harris was born in Mattoon, Illinois. She was the first Black woman to serve as an American envoy (Ambassador to Luxembourg in 1965), the first Black woman to serve on a Fortune 500 board (IBM in 1971), and the first Black woman in the U.S. presidential line of succession (HUD Secretary in 1977), among many other distinctions, including law school professor and philanthropist. It was five years ago that Merline Saintil and Robin Washington created Black Women On Boards, inspired by Patricia and other trailblazing leaders on whose shoulders we stand. In honor of those who’ve been the first or only and in celebration of those leading at the highest levels today, this video created by allies conveys the spirit of partnership and power of lifting as we climb. Thanks to them and to everyone who, like Patricia, Merline and Robin, inspire future generations of leaders to serve with distinction and to open doors for others. #leadership #excellence #legacy

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