Detroit City Wire

The city of Detroit, where nearly 80% of the population is Black, is witnessing a significant shift in leadership across various institutions. Historically slow to appoint Black leaders despite its demographic composition, several prominent organizations have recently seen Black individuals rise to top positions for the first time.

Kyra Harris Bolden made history as the first Black woman to serve as a Michigan Supreme Court justice. Reflecting on her groundbreaking role, she noted, "There are challenges that come with being the first anything and I’m just going to be honest about that. But the outpouring of support that I receive really keeps me inspired every day."

Suzanne Shank became the first Black woman to chair the Mackinac Policy Conference in its 120-year history. As President and CEO of Siebert Williams Shank & Co. LLC., Shank expressed her sense of responsibility: “I had observed really dynamic business titans in Detroit, and I was following in their footsteps. But I also found it really motivational in that I always feel a sense of responsibility to pave the way.”

Derron Sanders marked another milestone as the first Black president of the Detroit Athletic Club in its 137-year history. As CEO of SG Cos., Sanders reflected on his position: "It’s been fun... When I first started in the role, I used to kind of jokingly shun ‘the first,’ as in ‘the first African American.’"

Lane Coleman became the first Black board chair at the Detroit Institute of Art after succeeding Gene Gargaro in 2024. His leadership has brought more representation and programming focused on Detroit's Black culture.

April Clarke broke new ground as the first Black woman chair of Entrepreneurs’ Organization’s Detroit chapter since its founding in 1987. Clarke shared her journey: “I’ve been a member of this organization for a decade now, and it’s a community where we all chip in and help entrepreneurs scale.”

These leaders are not only breaking barriers but also setting new standards for future generations by emphasizing diversity and empowerment within their roles. Their achievements are reshaping expectations and opportunities within their respective fields, serving as powerful examples for aspiring leaders.