Dorothy Height was elected as the fourth national president of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) in November 1957.  She served in this role for 40 years, until 1997, providing steadfast leadership during pivotal moments in the American civil rights movement.

Prior to her presidency at NCNW, Height was deeply involved with the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA). She began her tenure there in 1937 and played a significant role in integrating its facilities nationwide.  Additionally, from 1947 to 1956, she served as the national president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, where she developed leadership training and educational programs.

Under Height’s leadership, the NCNW focused on issues such as voter registration in the South, education in the North, and scholarship programs for student civil rights workers.  She also coordinated “Wednesdays in Mississippi,” bringing together black and white women to foster dialogue and understanding during the civil rights era.

Height’s dedication to civil and women’s rights earned her numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1994 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2004.  She continued her advocacy until her passing on April 20, 2010, leaving a lasting legacy in the fight for equality and justice.