02/28/2022
On this last day of Black History Month, we're continuing our Hero of Work series and honoring another significant business leader from the Golden Age of Black Business, Maggie Lena Walker. Born in 1864, Walker became an African-American visionary, entrepreneur, business and civic leader, and activist for the rights of African-Americans (and especially Black women). In 1903, Walker became both the first African-American woman to charter a bank and the first African American woman to serve as a bank president. The St. Luke Penny Savings Bank became a catalyst for economic advancement in the Black community.
As a leader, Walker achieved success with the vision to make tangible improvements in the way of life for African-Americans. Disabled by paralysis, Walker also became an example for people with disabilities.
Walker's leadership delivered both business success and positive change for many stakeholders in her community. Companies have a significant role in creating sustainable communities and in building an equitable economy and society. We thank Maggie Lena Walker for her astounding contributions to American history.
