A charter member of the Crown Jewels (NC) Chapter, Mayor Vi Alexander Lyles made history as the first African American woman elected Mayor of Charlotte.

With decades of service in local government, she has been a tireless advocate for equity, opportunity, and inclusive growth. In 2025, she is seeking an unprecedented fifth term as mayor, continuing her legacy of leadership, resilience, and impact. Mayor Lyles’ historic journey reflects not only her personal perseverance but also the values and vision of The Links, Incorporated.

Joan Elizabeth Higginbotham, a NASA astronaut and electrical engineer, made history as the third African American woman to travel into space. In 2006, she flew aboard Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-116 to the International Space Station, securing her place among the nation’s trailblazers in science and technology.

Her groundbreaking career in aerospace and her contributions to science and technology continue to inspire women and underrepresented communities to pursue STEM and to aim for new heights.