The National Council of Negro Women is an “organization of organizations” (comprised of 330 campus and community-based sections and 32 national women’s organizations) that enlightens, inspires and connects more than 2,000,000 women and men. Its mission is to lead, advocate for, and empower women of African descent, their families and communities. NCNW was founded in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, an influential educator and activist, and for more than fifty years, the iconic Dr. Dorothy Height was president of NCNW. Johnnetta Betsch Cole was elected Chair of NCNW in 2018, ushering in a new era of social activism and continued progress and growth for the organization.

Today, NCNW is led by Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley, the organization’s president and chief executive officer.

NCNW’s programs are grounded on a foundation of critical concerns known as “Four for the Future”.

• NCNW promotes education with a special focus on science, technology, engineering and math

• encourages entrepreneurship, financial literacy and economic stability

• educates women about good health and HIV/AIDS

• promotes civic engagement and advocates for sound public policy and social justice