Althea

Gibson

1927 - 2003

Althea grew up on the streets of Harlem, and began playing tennis as a child. By age 15, Althea had won a national tennis championship. 

"Most sports were segregated at the time," writes Harrison, "so when Althea became the first black athlete to enter a US national competition, it was a landmark event." 

Althea was the first black tennis player to compete at the US National Championships in 1950 and at Wimbledon in 1951, paving the way for tennis players like Venus and Serena Williams.

Alma 

Woodsey 

Thomas

1891-1978

Alma began her career as a teacher, but took a break from the classroom to attend Howard University, where she studied art. After returning to her teaching position for 35 years, Alma obtained her master's degree in art education, and eventually had her colorful paintings displayed at the Woodley Museum of American Art.

"This was the first-ever solo exhibition of an African-American woman artist at one of America's most important art museums," writes Vashti Harrison, author and illustrator of the new children's book, "Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History."

"Alma is truly a testament to being dedicated to the thing you love and having the patience to let it grow."

Phillis 

Wheatley, 

 1753-1784