Black History Month 2020

Taking a
closer look.

Throughout history, African Americans have made outstanding contributions toward the advancement of science in numerous areas, including research, medicine, invention, and administration. This Black History Month, we want to take a closer look at those whose contributions may go unnoticed, but still play significant roles in day-to-day accomplishments at the NIH– administrative professionals. They are the integral stakeholders, and the backbone of achievements big and small in our everyday work. Our workforce brings a balance of perspectives to bear on every challenge we face. We hope that this encourages you to recognize those that you may not always see, but are present in each moving part of our organization.

The progress of the world will call for the best that all of us have to give.
— Mary McLeod Bethune

Champions of Diversity at NIH

Colin Fraser

Colin Fraser

Program Analyst

Center for Scientific Review

Shileta Gorham

Shileta Gorham

Administrative Support

Office of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Emerging Leaders

NIH is committed to developing diverse leaders and administrative professionals in the field of scientific research. Since its inception in 1957, the Management Intern Program has offered resources, targeted training, and hands-on experience to motivate NIH employees interested in pursuing a career in administration and management. Graduates have become some of NIH’s most respected administrative managers, including Executive Officers, Administrative Officers, Grants Management Officers, Budget Officers, Human Resource Managers, and Contracting Officers. As we pay homage to those leaders who have laid the foundation for us, during Black History Month, EDI would like to highlight emerging Black administrative leaders.

Hillary Flowers

Hillary Flowers

"Because of the diversity I see all around me, I feel much more comfortable striving in my own career."

Melbourne Bull, Jr.

Melbourne Bull, Jr.

"If the scientific programs are the life blood of the NIH, then the thousands of admin professionals here are the veins that keep things moving."

Tanjier Belton

Tanjier Belton

"Think about the mission of NIH when completing your task. No matter how small the assignment may seem...know that it’s an important link in NIH’s chain of success."

LaShawn Lewis

LaShawn Lewis

"...While it may be beneficial for an office to keep talented staff, I think that NIH values and promotes career advancement."