THE NEED Throughout our history, the United States has relied on the innovative spirit of its most dedicated citizens to meet the challenges confronting our families, the communities and the nation. That dedicated citizenry often has been comprised of strong enterprising Black women. As an organization representing over 223 Black elected legislative women, as well as an increasing number of women in appointed positions, we know that Black women as elected leaders are a precious few. While we have
witnessed a steady increase in the growth of women participating in the political process and in corporate leadership since the late 80's, we must not lose sight of the implications that term limitations and redistricting have on the electoral process. Despite the growing number of Black women in the workplace, there continues to be a lack of diversity and underrepresentation of Black women heading corporations and serving on their Boards. Recent data confirms the critical importance of continuing to increase the position of black women in public service, elected office and private sector leadership.

Of the 74 women serving in Statewide Elective Offices there is only 1 African American Woman.

Of the 1,741 women state legislators serving nationwide, 235 or 13.5% are African-American Women.

Of the 1,196 board directorships, 27 were held by Black Women

PROGRAM OVERVIEW The National Leadership Institute (Institute) is a signature program of the NOBEL/Women Leadership Series. Since it’s inception in 2002, the Institute has achieved national prominence and is heralded as a premiere educational forum that provides leadership, public policy and campaign training to prepare Black women to run for public office, seek board appointments and advance in careers in the public, corporate and community sector.

To achieve the pinnacle of excellence for the Institute, NOBEL/Women partners and engages the elite experts in the fields of public policy, leadership and the political arena to develop an innovative and challenging curriculum. In addition, NOBEL/Women seeks to engage these partners to serve as faculty, facilitators and mentors to the “fellows” that are accepted into the program.

Through a competitive process NOBEL/Women accepts and critiques hundreds of applications. A maximum of 25 Black women are selected to participate in this unique year long leadership experience.

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