Washington, D.C. — The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is pleased to announce that our President and CEO, Nicole Austin-Hillery, has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the National Urban League’s Do Something! Award. This honor will be presented during the National Urban League’s reception, “Do Something: A Night to Celebrate Progress and Inspire Action”.
The Do Something! Award is a recognition presented by the National Urban League and its 92 affiliates across 37 states and the District of Columbia. It honors leaders whose commitment to service and equity exemplifies the spirit of the Urban League Movement and the essential role we all play in advancing civil rights and economic parity for Black America and other underserved communities.
With a career deeply rooted in advocacy and social justice, Nicole Austin-Hillery has made significant contributions to civil rights and public policy. Prior to her role at CBCF, she served as the Executive Director of the U.S. Program at Human Rights Watch, where she focused on issues such as criminal justice, immigration, and racial justice. She has also worked as a litigator, advocating for civil rights and equality in the workplace. Throughout her career, Austin-Hillery has been a tireless champion for marginalized communities, working to advance equity, opportunity, and justice in American society. Her leadership at CBCF continues to shape initiatives that empower Black communities and address systemic disparities.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors of the CBCF, I am delighted to congratulate Nicole on this well-deserved recognition,” said Rep. Terri A. Sewell, Board Chair, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. “Nicole’s intentional leadership at CBCF reflects her lifelong dedication to advancing justice and equity for Black communities. This award is a testament to the impact she continues to make in building pathways toward a more equitable future.”
“I am deeply honored to receive the National Urban League’s Do Something! Award,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, president and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. “The Urban League has long been a force for justice, service, and equity in our nation, and to be recognized by such a historic and vital institution is profoundly meaningful. This award reflects the collective efforts of countless individuals who are committed to creating a more just and inclusive America. At CBCF, we strive every day to amplify Black voices, dismantle systemic barriers, and build a future rooted in opportunity and progress. This recognition inspires me to continue that work with even greater resolve.”
Nicole will be honored during the reception on Friday, September 26, 2025. Please join the CBCF family in congratulating Nicole on this outstanding achievement!