In her role as a human resource specialist for the U.S. Courts, LaToya Henderson is responsible for providing advice and guidance to more than 140 employees within the court and ensuring compliance with guidelines and policies. She also currently serves as the program director of Chicago “300” Black Women.
As a Black woman, what do you consider your superpowers to be?
Humility, authenticity, savoir-faire, wisdom, high energy.
What key skills or qualities make you unique as an African American female leader?
I meet people where they are, and I make myself vulnerable to people. This helps to make people feel comfortable enough to open up and oftentimes ask for help when they truly need it.
Why is it important for women of color to work in leadership roles and decision-making capacities?
For far too long, African Americans have been left out of positions of power in politics, corporate America, education and housing. We need to have a seat at the table to truly effectuate change within our communities. Women of color, in particular, bring that Michelle Obama-type of dynamic to our respective organizations. We are intelligent, resourceful, empathetic, competent and adept.
As a successful woman in business, what is your greatest achievement?
My two most recent greatest accomplishments are: 1) being nominated by the chief executive of the court, and then ultimately being competitively selected for a nationwide leadership program within the federal courts, and 2) being trusted to be among the leadership team of the Chicago “300” Black Women.
