April, 2015 – YWCA’s Stand Against Racism Luncheon
Dr. Gwendolyn Boyd, the first female president of Alabama State University, will be the featured speaker at the YWCA of Palm Beach County’s annual “Stand Against Racism” Luncheon to be held on Friday, April 24, 2015, 11:45 a.m. at the Kravis Center’s Cohen Pavilion.
A native of Montgomery, Alabama, Boyd earned her undergraduate degree from ASU with a major in mathematics and a double minor in physics and music. Upon graduation, Boyd received a fellowship to pursue graduate work at Yale University, where she was the first African-American female to earn a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. She also has earned both the Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Howard University.
Boyd took the helm at ASU after more than three decades of extraordinary leadership and public service in Washington, D.C. A noted engineer, Boyd began her tenure at Johns Hopkins University’s Applied Physics Laboratory as an analyst in the Strategic Systems Department, where she worked on evaluations of Strategic Weapons Systems on Polaris, Poseidon and Trident submarines. In 1999, she became the Assistant for Development Programs and was later named Executive Assistant to the Chief of Staff at APL. In 1997, Boyd was selected to become a member of the Johns Hopkins Diversity Leadership Council and served as chair from 2001-2104.
An internationally recognized champion of education, especially as it relates to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) disciplines, Boyd was nominated by President Barack Obama and received senate confirmation to serve as a trustee to the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation in 2009. President Obama has appointed Boy to the President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for African-Americans.
Boyd’s accomplishments also include serving as the 22nd National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and as the chairperson of the sorority’s Centennial Celebration in 2013. Boyd’s remarkable list of achievements includes two honorary doctorates, Congressional recognitions, 23 keys to various cities throughout the country, declarations of Gwendolyn E. Boyd Day in eight cities, civic citations, and various leadership and volunteer awards, as well as professional awards for her achievements in the fields of engineering and higher education.
“We are thrilled to have Dr. Boyd as our guest for this event,” said Suzanne Turner, CEO of the YWCA. She added, “Her presentation is certain to be a fascinating view of a very interesting life journey.”
“Stand Against Racism” is a national program of the YWCA, taking place from April 23-26, with the goal of bringing together people across the country to raise awareness about racism, take steps to eliminate it, and celebrate diversity. Organizations that share the YWCA’s vision can participate as a partner agency; to get additional information and register, please visit www.standagainstracism.org.
With the mission of eliminating racism and empowering women, the YWCA is committed to fostering greater community unity among the various races and ethnicities in Palm BeachCounty. The luncheon will include the presentation of the YWCA’s Annual Racial Justice Awards.
Presenting Sponsor is FPL.
Tickets for the luncheon are $50, and reservations can be made by calling 561-640-0050, Ext. 134.