Dorothy Phillips has broken yet another barrier, becoming the first Black woman president of the American Chemical Society (ACS) nearly 60 years after making history as the first Black woman to graduate from Vanderbilt University with an undergraduate degree.
Phillips, who previously served nine years on ACS’s board of directors and as president-elect in 2024, is now leading the 150,000-member organization with a mission to promote inclusion, belonging, and career development in STEM.
A Legacy of Breaking Barriers
Throughout her career, Phillips has championed diversity and equity, paving pathways for aspiring scientists while advocating for increased opportunities for underrepresented communities.
“Inclusion and belonging are core values of ACS, and I want to be a catalyst for young people and aspiring scientists,” Phillips said. “My theme is building chemistry careers inclusively—more young people should have access to STEM careers, even those who may not be able to afford college.”
Phillips’ advocacy is rooted in personal experience. Growing up in Centennial Park, Nashville, her family was among the first Black families in the area. Her brother played a role in the historic Nashville sit-ins, which helped desegregate public facilities.
Her own journey included several historic firsts—the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Cincinnati, and a trailblazing 29-year career at Waters Corporation before retiring in 2013.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Phillips’ leadership aligns with ACS’s expanded commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Respect (DEIR), particularly as conversations about equity in STEM continue to evolve.
Reflecting on her achievements, Phillips remains grateful for her journey and hopes to inspire the next generation of scientists.
“What comes to mind now is I am blessed,” she said. “This is not a life I could have dreamed, but I have walked a path with God that has led me here. I have to be there for other young people to let them know they can achieve against all odds.”
