For Immediate Release
July 9, 2026
Media Contact
Jennifer Cho
jcho@cbcfinc.org
202.263.2800
WASHINGTON, D.C. — July 9, 2026 — Nicole Austin-Hillery, President & CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF), has been named a 2026 Power 50 Woman of Influence by the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC). This prestigious national recognition honors exceptional women who are shaping industries, advancing communities, and driving meaningful economic and cultural impact.
Selected from a distinguished group of leaders across business, media, public service, and entrepreneurship, the Power 50 Women of Influence represent a dynamic network of trailblazers whose work continues to redefine leadership and expand opportunity on a national and global scale.
This year’s theme, “Women Who Lead the Movement,” highlights women who are not only achieving excellence in their respective fields, but who are also actively creating pathways, shifting narratives, and building lasting legacies.
“On behalf of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, I am honored to be recognized among such an extraordinary group of women who are leading with purpose, passion, and impact. True movement leadership is about building bridges and shifting systems so that prosperity, equity, and justice are accessible to all,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, President & CEO, CBCF. “At CBCF, our daily mandate is to uplift the global Black community and champion the needs of all historically discriminated against and marginalized groups. This recognition belongs to our entire team and our partners who work to cultivate the next generation of changemakers and eliminate systemic barriers in all halls of power where key decisions are made from Congress to corporate board rooms.”
In her role as President & CEO, Nicole Austin-Hillery has successfully expanded CBCF’s scale by launching transformative new programs, campaigns, and initiatives aimed at advancing the global Black community and all underserved groups. Under her stewardship, the Foundation which this year celebrates its 50th Anniversary, has significantly strengthened its leadership pipeline for emerging leaders, deepened its influence on public policy research, and expanded its reach in empowering historically disenfranchised communities worldwide.
“The Power 50 Women of Influence represent excellence in every sense of the word,” said Ron Busby Sr., President and CEO of U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. “These women are visionary leaders, barrier breakers, and change agents who continue to redefine what is possible. We are honored to celebrate their extraordinary contributions and the lasting impact they are making across industries and communities.”
About USBC Power 50: The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. Power 50 Women of Influence initiative honors dynamic women leaders who are driving economic growth, advancing social progress, and creating lasting, generational impact across industries including business, media, finance, technology, public service, and philanthropy.
The 2026 honorees will be celebrated at the annual Power 50 Women of Influence Luncheon on July 13, 2026, hosted at the Ritz-Carlton in Washington, D.C. This signature event brings together an influential network of executives, founders, policymakers, and cultural leaders for an elevated celebration of excellence, leadership, and impact.
About the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF)
Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org. As a 501(c)(3), the CBCF takes no position on legislation or regulatory matters before Congress or any other government agency.
About U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.
U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. is the leading national organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. Through advocacy, programming, and strategic partnerships, USBC advances economic empowerment and sustainable growth within Black communities nationwide.