The National Minority Supplier Development Council announced recently that Joset Wright is set to replace Harriet Michel as the next president of the organization. This brings to an end one of the most important eras in minority business development.

Harriet led the organization with distinction and was instrumental in getting many companies to give out billions of dollars in contracts to women and minority companies. Many of us owe a debt of gratitude for her commitment and no-nonsense approach to getting things done. Under her watch, many companies have built great supplier programs that continue to evolve in interesting ways.

Ms. Wright comes into this position with a strong background and the requisite experience to take NMSDC to another level. As a former president of Ameritech Illinois with extensive knowledge of procurement, regulatory and external relations, she brings a unique “outsiders” perspective, one that would bring renewed momentum to the organization. She has also held various legal positions that will serve her well as NMSDC navigates unchartered waters in a new global economic, social and political environment.

The journey is not over and the struggle has only just begun. When we are united success is made easier and all the more sweeter. We need to give Ms. Wright our fullest support and pray that God will always be the guiding hand in everything she does. It’s a long journey and the best is yet to come!