Madam Walker Legacy Center Names President
Judith Thomas
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Madam Walker Legacy Center has appointed Judith Thomas president. She most recently served as director of convention services for Visit Indy.
In making the announcement, MWLC board chair Joyce Q. Rogers, Esq. stated, “After a nationwide search to identify a new leader we are confident in the experience and qualifications that Judith brings to the Madam Walker. She is well versed in leadership, planning and programming to move the organization to the next level of excellence. Her business and planning acumen will prove instrumental as we move forward in bringing to life the new strategic plan continuing the legacy of Madam Walker both locally and nationally. Her leadership and experience will also assist us as we shape our partnerships with IU/IUPUI and others in developing innovative and entrepreneurial-based programming for our local community and beyond.“
According to IUPUI Chancellor Nasser H. Paydar, “On behalf of IUPUI, I am pleased to welcome Judith to lead the Madam Walker Legacy Center. The experience and energy she brings to this position will be a tremendous asset to the center and to the city as a whole. We at IUPUI look forward to working with Judith and the Walker Board to honor the legacy of Madam Walker and build on the great history of this community treasure. Together we will undertake these major renovations and will bring collaborative vision that will carry us into the future.”
When asked about her plans for leading the Walker into its next stage of growth Thomas stated, “I am excited to be a part of the revitalization of Madam Walker Legacy Center and the organizations’ programming. I look forward to celebrating the cultural past of the building and Indiana Avenue while creating a future with new energy, ideas and partnerships that will benefit generations to come. Madam Walker was a woman filled with pride and ingenuity and her vision is still alive today and celebrated throughout the world. The newly renovated building will resume as a place where the community will come together to learn, teach, improve, innovate and make the world a better place. It is an honor to be a part of the next chapter of this historic American legacy.”
Since 1927, the MWLC has stood as a bastion of pride for the Indianapolis community and beyond. It is a registered National Historic Landmark that once housed the headquarters and manufacturing plant of Madam C.J. Walker Hair Care and Beauty Products. Over the years, the MWLC evolved into a gathering place for events, cultural programs and educational forums. Upon completion of the renovations, the building will continue its valuable service to the community.