Leadership Transition at the Black Women’s Health Imperative
Linda Goler Blount, who has been at the helm of the Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI) since 2014, will be leaving her position to assume a new leadership role at Community Catalyst. Her departure marks the end of an impactful era for the organization, which has significantly advanced the cause of health justice for Black women and girls across the nation.
In light of her departure, the BWHI Board has appointed Michelle Minus Swittenberg, Executive Vice President of Enterprise Operations, and Lisa Cunningham, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications, to serve as interim co-presidents. Both women have played key roles in the growth and success of the organization.
Honoring a Legacy
ATLANTA
April 2, 2025
Under Linda Goler Blount’s leadership, BWHI evolved into an $18 million organization recognized for its pioneering research, advocacy, and policy initiatives aimed at improving the health outcomes of Black women and girls. Her efforts were instrumental in the reauthorization of the Protecting Access to Lifesaving Screenings (PALS) Act, which has expanded access to essential mammography screenings and contributed to saving approximately 1,300 lives annually from breast cancer within the Black community.
Community Impact
Linda emphasized, “The last eleven years have been incredibly rewarding due to the team at BWHI. We have not only highlighted the health injustices faced by Black women but also successfully advocated for crucial legislation that expands access to necessary healthcare services.” She expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to connect with countless Black women and girls, stating, “These connections remind me daily of the essential and lifesaving work that BWHI was established to undertake.”
Dr. Barbara J. Brown, Chair of the BWHI Board, acknowledged Linda’s profound impact, saying, “The progress made in the health of millions of Black women is a testament to Ms. Goler Blount’s unwavering vision and dedication. We are filled with gratitude for her service and have great respect for the legacy she leaves behind.” The organization is poised to continue its mission under the interim leadership of Ms. Swittenberg and Ms. Cunningham as they embark on an executive search for a new president.
Looking Forward
Byllye Avery, the founder of BWHI, remarked, “When I established BWHI, my vision was to create a movement focused on unapologetically prioritizing Black women’s health. This transition is not a pause but rather a progression towards fulfilling that vision. I am incredibly grateful to Linda for her contributions in elevating our mission and expanding our influence.” She also expressed pride in seeing BWHI continue to evolve, remaining grounded in its legacy while boldly leading into the future.
Michelle Minus Swittenberg, who joined BWHI in 2024, has been instrumental in driving the organization’s operations and impact, whereas Lisa Cunningham has been a driving force behind numerous high-profile awareness campaigns since joining in 2019, including the acclaimed documentary film, “Me Period,” featuring Sheryl Lee Ralph and Tabitha Brown.
The Black Women’s Health Imperative proudly stands as the oldest national organization focused solely on enhancing the health and wellness of 21 million Black women and girls in America, addressing their physical, emotional, and financial wellness comprehensively.
For more details and to explore the original content, please visit the BWHI website.
