Women In Government Lecture Series

Making an Impact

Serving the Community

ABOUT OUR MISSION

The Dr. Una S. T. Clarke Women in Government Series, founded by Dr. Zulema Blair of CUNY Medgar Evers College, celebrates the transformative impact of women in public office. This series educates and inspires students and community members alike, featuring trailblazing women in government who share their pioneering journeys. Named in honor of Central Brooklyn’s own vanguard, Dr. Una S. T. Clarke, the series is a powerful co-curricular initiative that empowers those aspiring to lead in public service.

Our Purpose

Empower
Engage
Inspire
Elevate

We empower future leaders by providing the knowledge, tools, and connections needed to thrive in public policy and government. Through this series, participants gain access to firsthand accounts from trailblazing women who have made a lasting impact in their communities and beyond. Each story shared is a testament to the strength, resilience, and determination required to excel in public service. By illuminating the pathways taken by these pioneering women, we show aspiring leaders what’s possible and equip them with insights and encouragement to start making their own impact. This foundation of knowledge and inspiration empowers individuals to step into roles that shape society and create positive change for generations to come.

Our series actively engages students, community members, and leaders through meaningful discussions and hands-on learning. By bridging connections with influential women who have navigated complex challenges in public service, we provide participants with unique opportunities to explore the realities of leadership. Through these interactions, students and attendees learn about the legislative process, policy impact, and the dedication involved in serving the public. Engaging directly with pioneers in the field, they develop a stronger understanding of government and a clearer path toward making a difference.

We inspire those who aspire to create change by highlighting the resilience, vision, and progress of women who have broken barriers in government. Each speaker brings a unique perspective, sharing personal stories of growth, setbacks, and achievements. These narratives encourage our audience to dream boldly and pursue their goals with confidence, recognizing the potential within themselves to influence society. By showcasing the journeys of these accomplished leaders, we remind aspiring public servants that each challenge faced is a step toward greater impact, inspiring them to contribute their own strengths to the world.

Our mission is to elevate the voices and accomplishments of women who have paved the way in government, celebrating their achievements while laying a path for the leaders of tomorrow. Through this series, we honor the successes and sacrifices of women who have dedicated their lives to public service, building a legacy for future generations. By sharing their stories, we not only uplift those who continue to break down barriers, but also inspire others to follow in their footsteps. The Lecture Series serves as a platform for advancing the influence of women in government, fostering an inclusive and supportive space where new voices and visions are recognized and valued.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

February 2024

Women’s Empowerment Brunch

Held in Albany, NY during the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic & Asian Legislators Caucus Week, this empowering brunch took place in the NYS Assembly Chambers. Esteemed speakers included Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Attorney General Letitia James, NYC Mayor Eric Adams, NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, US Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, and Assemblymember Latrice Walker, all sharing insights on women’s roles in leadership and governance.

May 2024

Women of the Year Awards Dinner

Hosted at Medgar Evers College, CUNY, the Women of the Year Awards Dinner celebrated extraordinary female leaders making significant contributions to their communities. Keynote speaker Charlene Gayle, Executive Director of NYSABPRHAL and CEO of Macon Property Management Group, honored awardees including L. Joy Williams, President of the Brooklyn Chapter of the NAACP, and Dr. Patricia Ramsey, President of Medgar Evers College, for their impactful work.

September 2024

“Innovative Approaches to Urban Development” Panel & Workshop

This panel and workshop in Washington, DC, held as part of the Congressional Black Caucus, focused on innovative strategies for urban development. Key speakers included Karen Boykin-Towns, Chairwoman of the NAACP; Derrick Lewis, Director of NAACP Youth & College; and NYS Assemblyman Brian Cunningham. Together, they discussed actionable solutions to address challenges in urban communities.

Get Involved

Our Team

Dr. Zulema Blair

Founder & President, Board of Directors

Dr. Zulema Blair, a Jamaican American educator and leader, is Chairperson of the nationally ranked Department of Public Administration and Interim Dean of the School of Business at Medgar Evers College, CUNY. The only faculty member at MEC to hold both a PhD and Juris Doctorate, Dr. Blair specializes in public policy, redistricting, and political behavior. She also serves as Redistricting Research Director for the Center for Law and Social Justice and advocates for education as a Brooklyn Borough President appointee for NYC School District 17.

Joanna Dorsey

Executive Director

Joanna Dorsey is an urban farmer, entrepreneur, and advocate for equity in food systems. With a background in public administration and leadership roles, she serves as Director of Policy & Social Impact for Black Farmers United-NYS and co-advisor for the NAACP Collegiate Chapter. Joanna is also the founder of Ramsey Family Marketplace, an e-commerce store specializing in organic products from people of color.

Christina Amazan

Co-Executive Director

Christina Amazan, an MPA student at Baruch College, joined the Dr. Una S. T. Clarke Women in Government Lecture Series as an intern and has since become a key team member. She’s passionate about driving positive change in the nonprofit sector with a focus on diversity and inclusion.

Jamila Pringle

Founding Member, Board of Directors

Jamila Pringle is a dedicated public servant and President of the NYC Black Women’s Political Club. With experience in government affairs and roles in NYC’s mayoral office and the NY State Assembly, she focuses on equitable, community-centered solutions for socio-economic issues.

Xamayla Rose

Founding Member, Board of Directors

Brooklyn-born and raised, Xamayla Rose has spent over 20 years advocating for youth, immigrant families, and marginalized communities in NYC. Following the tragic loss of her brother, she co-founded a nonprofit against youth violence. A former Deputy Public Advocate for Civic Empowerment, Xamayla holds an MBA and now serves as Executive Director of CREC.

Lisa Evelyn

Founding Member, Board of Directors

Lisa Evelyn is a Wellness Specialist at Medgar Evers College’s Center for Women’s Development, where she leads programs like the Healthy Relationship Series. A life coach and interfaith chaplain, Lisa also co-chairs the college’s LGBTQIA+ Consortium and volunteers with CUNY Citizenship Now. She is committed to inclusivity, wellness, and empowering students.

Andrea Dawes

Founding Member, Board of Directors

Andrea Dawes is a Founding Member of the Board of Directors for the Women in Government Lecture Series. With her dedication and leadership, she plays a key role in advancing the organization’s mission to empower and inspire future leaders.

Contact Us

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you want to keep in touch, join our community, or support our mission, please use the form below. Together, we can empower the next generation of leaders.

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