THE HISTORY

Mary McCleod Bethune

Dorothy Irene Height

National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) is an “organization of organizations”

Comprised of over 350 campus and community-based sections and 37 national women’s organizations that enlightens, inspires, and connects more than 2 million women and men. Its mission is to lead, advocate for, and empower women of African descent, their families and communities. It was founded in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, an influential educator and activist, and for forty years, the iconic Dr. Dorothy Height was president of NCNW.

Today, the NCNW programs are grounded on a foundation of critical concerns that are now “NCNW Priorities.” Our organization promotes education; encourages entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and economic stability; educates women about health and promotes healthcare access, and promotes civic engagement and advocates for sound public policy and social justice.

National Leadership

Dr. A. Lois Keith

National Chair

Dr. Keith is a Legacy Life Member and Bethune Achiever and has dedicated much of her life to NCNW’s mission. In 2016 at the NCNW’s 57th National Convention, she was honored to serve as co-chair of this event and she was elected to the position of National Vice President.

Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley

President & CEO

Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley is the president and chief executive officer for the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and brings 21 years of experience in healthcare, diversity, equity, & inclusion (DEI), government affairs, and executive leadership. She is also the founding principal and CEO of R.E.A.C.H. Beyond Solutions, a public health, advocacy, and executive leadership firm promoting DEI, political and organizational strategy, risk management, government affairs, and technical assistance.