Making Black History Every Day - Karen Boykin-Towns
The Business Council of New York State (BCNYS) is the leading organization in the state representing the interests of large and small businesses. Recognizing the disproportionate impact COVID-19 has had on Black people and Black-owned businesses, the Business Council stepped up to show support.
For Black History Month, BCNYS created a ‘28 Businesses for 28 Days’ initiative to showcase Black businesses in the state. Additionally, they are highlighting Black leaders of distinction, one of which is Karen Boykin-Towns. Karen is an experienced arbiter of change who uses her consulting firm, Encore Strategies and her position as Vice Chairman of the NAACP National Board of Directors along with other roles to bridge gaps between communities and organizations while driving change. She leads through empowerment and works to create meaningful connections among people.
The Business Council noted some of her achievements:
“Karen Boykin-Towns is a distinguished strategist who has forged a reputation as a global business and civic leader. She has spent her entire career at the cutting edge of policy, advocacy, communication, and change management. She has contributed her expertise professionally across government, the nonprofit world, and a Fortune 50 global biopharmaceutical company, whilst championing civil rights and social justice organizations.”
“In 2019, Karen founded Encore Strategies, a boutique consultancy focusing on integrating business and public affairs initiatives. She also serves as Senior Counselor at Sard Verbinnen, a leading communications firm in the United States for corporations, institutions and prominent individuals.”
“Karen currently serves as Vice Chairman of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). She is also a board member of the Visiting Nurse Services of New York (VNSNY), Brewster Academy, American Airlines Community Council, and L’Oréal USA Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Board. She previously served as Co-Chair of The Business Council of New York State, Inc.”
Karen also gave a statement on Black History Month:
“Black History Month is a time to celebrate our progress and recognize those individuals who have paved the way. It is also a time for us to reflect on where we are and strategize on ways each of us in our own way can do more to advance our communities. As a Black woman, I must continue to work hard to be an example as we look to make Black History every day.”
