Our History

Historical Overview of NANBPWC, Inc.

The late Emma Odessa Young, a realtor from New York City and a member of the New York Club of Business and Professional Women, conceived the idea of a national organization of business and professional women in 1934. Due to health issues, Mrs. Young never sought to head the organization. However, Mrs. Young’s mind was alert and her interest keen. She was able to witness the progress of the organization before her passing.

In July of 1935, Mrs. Ollie Chinn Porter, president of the New York Club, extended an invitation to local clubs, organized as Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, to join and form a national organization.  The Founders were Emma Odessa Young, Ollie Chinn Porter and Effie Diton of New York City; Bertha Perry Rhodes, Josephine B. Keene and Adelaide Flemming of Philadelphia; and Pearl Flippen of Atlantic City.

The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. (NANBPWC, Inc.) was founded in July 1935, with chartered clubs from New York City, Philadelphia and Atlantic City.  The membership now includes over 140 clubs and thousands of members across the United States, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Africa.

To learn more about our National and District Level organization,

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