
Currently, she is actively working with others to establish The Black Women’s Wellness Center of Buffalo to change the access to and health outcomes for women. Gender equity continues to be one of the important issues Brenda works with others to address. Her compassion and commitment to others has earned her the trust and confidence that allows her to effectively work with people from all walks of life-grassroots to grass tops, young and old. She recognizes the value and gifts of each individual. Her life is fulfilled and enriched by serving others. Most recently, as chair of the Farm Workers Wage Board she completed the charge of the Commissioner of Labor to change the overtime threshold for farm workers. Building community starting with family, became the foundation of the League’s holistic work strengthening families, raising education outcomes, addressing racial, health and economic inequities, and creating opportunities for individuals and businesses to thrive.īrenda is also known for her leadership in workforce development where she was instrumental in the development of New York State’s Workforce Development system while she was the Executive Director of the Buffalo and Erie County’s Private Industry Council and the President of the New York State Association of Employment and Training Professionals (NYATEP). She worked tirelessly with staff, board and the community to make positive differences in the lives of individuals and families - birth through senior years. Under her leadership, the Buffalo Urban League became one of the community’s premier organizations serving more than 20,000 individuals annually through addressing health, economic and social needs while fighting for equity and justice. She is passionate and deeply committed to achieving equity for Blacks, Latinx, Native Americans and other marginalized individuals.Īfter her “retirement” as the first woman President and CEO of the Buffalo Urban League for 22 years, she never stopped using her voice for and serving others.

McDuffie is an active community champion who advocates for systemic change and action that make life better for all people, especially the most vulnerable, in the Western New York region and beyond.

We are thrilled to honor Brenda Williams McDuffie as our first ever Women United President Award’s honoree. Thank you to the committee who organized today’s event and our sponsors whose investments enabled a space for us to share our stories as we #EmbraceEquity together.Ĭome join us for our upcoming events, and get involved! We hope you leave today motivated to get involved with the new friends and connections you made. We invest time to take action that results in a more inclusive world. When we #EmbraceEquity we create new relationships with people who are different from ourselves. Today’s program is focused on how you can advance your career through community engagement. Members mobilize the caring power of women as they work to improve the Health and Wellness, Education, and Financial Stability of individuals & families in Buffalo & Erie County.Ī powerful philanthropic force, Women United also facilitates conversations and initiatives with the goal of promoting equity and empowerment for women - at work and at home. We are a network of like-minded women who inspire and motivate others through philanthropy, leadership, and volunteerism.

Women United is a leadership society within the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County. International Women’s Day marks the contributions and achievements of women, and we can’t think of a better place to be than united together at the renowned Burchfield Penney Art Center. Welcome Letter | Schedule of Events | The Honoree | Meet the Moderator | Meet the Panelists | Our Sponsors | More About Women United | Upcoming Events A letter from Women United’s Co-Chairs 2023 Women United President's Award Recipient
