Alexis M. Herman: A Life of Leadership and Service
CHAIR, PRESIDENT & CEO, NEW VENTURES L.L.C.
FORMER U.S. LABOR SECRETARY, CLINTON ADMINISTRATION
Synopsis of Her Life: Alexis M. Herman, born on July 16, 1947, in Mobile, Alabama, embarked on a remarkable journey marked by her dedication to public service, business acumen, and pioneering role as an African-American leader. Her life’s work centered around empowering workers, promoting equality, and navigating the evolving landscape of the American workforce.As the Chair and CEO of New Ventures L.L.C., her corporate consulting company, she has actively promoted diversity in her roles on corporate boards. Notably, she chaired the Business Advisory Board of Sodexo Inc. until 2013 and has contributed her expertise to Toyota Motor Corp.’s Diversity Advisory Board and Global Advisory Board. During her tenure as Chair of the Human Resources Task Force from 2001 to 2006, she collaborated with the company to enhance its human resources policies following an employment lawsuit settlement. Alexis M. Herman currently holds positions on the corporate boards of The Coca-Cola Co. and Cummins Inc., where she proudly serves as one of the two leading black female directors in an S&P 500 company, solidifying her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion.
Business Ventures and Early Career: Herman’s journey began with her pursuit of education, culminating in a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Xavier University in New Orleans. Her early career took an impressive turn when President Jimmy Carter appointed her as the Director of the Women’s Bureau from 1977 to 1981. Remarkably, at just 29 years old, she became the youngest person to hold this role. Her tenure marked the beginning of her lifelong commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of workers.
Government Leadership and Advocacy: Alexis M. Herman transitioned seamlessly between business, government, and community leadership roles. She brought over two decades of experience and expertise to her position as U.S. Secretary of Labor during President Bill Clinton’s administration. Prior to this, she served as Assistant to the President and Director of the White House Public Liaison Office.
Championing Workers in a Changing World: As the 23rd Secretary of Labor and the first African American to lead the department, Herman assumed her role at a pivotal moment in American history. The turn of the millennium ushered in rapid changes in the nature of work and workforce composition. In response, Secretary Herman dedicated herself to helping American workers navigate these transformations effectively.
Goals for American Workers: During her tenure as Secretary of Labor, Alexis M. Herman focused the efforts of the Department of Labor on three key goals:
- A Prepared Workforce: She championed initiatives to equip the workforce with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a dynamic job market.
- A Secure Workforce: Ensuring the economic security of American workers became a central theme of her leadership, emphasizing the importance of fair wages, workplace safety, and workers’ rights.
- A Quality Workforce: Herman aimed to elevate the quality of work and employment opportunities available to all Americans, promoting inclusivity and diversity.
Awards, Honors, and Legacy: Throughout her career, Alexis M. Herman received recognition for her outstanding contributions to society. Her legacy is marked by her tireless efforts to improve the lives of American workers, her dedication to advancing the rights of women, and her historic role as a trailblazing African-American leader. Her impact inspires leaders and advocates for equality and workers’ rights across the nation.
Alexis M. Herman’s life work and legacy serve as a testament to the power of leadership, dedication, and service in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society. Her pioneer leadership is marked by her groundbreaking contributions to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in both government and corporate sectors. As the first African American to serve as U.S. Labor Secretary, she played a pivotal role in shaping labor policies that aimed to benefit American workers and prepare them for the challenges of the 21st century. Her work emphasized the importance of a prepared, secure, and quality workforce. Beyond her government service, Herman continued her mission by actively engaging in corporate America, where she championed diversity and inclusion practices in leadership roles and advisory boards. Her enduring commitment to advancing equal opportunities and her trailblazing career path serves as an inspiration for future generations striving to make a positive impact on the workplace and society at large.