A Nation Mourns a Tireless Public Servant
Alexis Herman, the first Black U.S. Secretary of Labor, is being remembered as a fearless leader and a tireless fighter for justice and fairness. Herman passed away on April 25, 2025, at the age of 77 after a brief illness.
Across the country, leaders are sharing heartfelt tributes. Former President Bill Clinton, who appointed Herman to the Cabinet in 1997, said, “Alexis was gifted in so many ways. She lifted people with her unfailing optimism and energy. We’ll miss her very much.”
Herman’s passing marks the loss of a woman whose work shaped labor policy and opened doors for women and minorities in the workforce.
From Social Worker to Historic Labor Secretary
Born in Mobile, Alabama, in 1947, Herman grew up in a household where public service was valued. Her mother was a teacher, and her father was the first Black politician elected in the South since Reconstruction.
She began her career in 1969 as a social worker for Catholic Charities, where she helped unemployed young people find work. This was only the beginning of a life spent improving opportunities for others.
At just 29, she became the youngest director of the Women’s Bureau at the Department of Labor under President Jimmy Carter. In that role, she pushed major companies like Delta Airlines and Coca-Cola to hire more women for professional positions.
A Leader in Politics and Business
Herman’s career stretched far beyond government. After forming her own consulting firm in the 1980s, she worked to place minority women in white-collar and nontraditional jobs.
Later, she joined the Democratic National Committee as chief of staff and went on to lead the 1992 Democratic National Convention. By 1997, President Clinton made history by naming her Secretary of Labor, a position no Black American had ever held.
Though she faced challenges in the role, Herman remained focused on improving workplace rights for minorities and women.
A Champion for Civil Rights and Community Empowerment
Throughout her life, Herman served on several major boards, including MGM/Mirage and The Coca-Cola Company. She also led diversity efforts for Toyota and played an important role in the National Urban League.
Marc Morial, President of the National Urban League, called her an “irreplaceable champion, stalwart leader, and compassionate friend.” He credited her with helping the organization achieve record growth and impact.
Her work also helped shape Harlem’s National Urban League Empowerment Center, one of the biggest economic development projects in the area’s history.
Leading in Times of Crisis
Herman’s leadership was especially vital in times of national tragedy. After Hurricane Katrina, Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton asked her to co-chair the Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund. In 2010, following the earthquake in Haiti, she joined the Clinton-Bush Haiti Fund board, helping raise millions for relief.
Her ability to bring people together and lead during tough times earned her lasting respect in both political and business circles.
A Lasting Legacy of Service and Integrity
Those closest to Herman describe her as kind, determined, and full of integrity. Xavier University President Reynold Verret said, “She paved the way for a more just and humane society. She touched many and will be missed much.”
Even after retirement, Herman stayed active in mentoring and advocacy work. Her life story is a powerful reminder of the importance of public service and fighting for equal opportunities.
Today, Alexis Herman is remembered not just for the titles she held, but for the lives she changed.
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