b'The Dr. Sadie T.M. Alexander Conference for Economics and Related Fields is aDr. Alexander celebration of the life and legacy of a true American pioneer who shattered glasswas a woman ceilings for women and minorities and empowered those who came after her. of many firsts:The 2020 Dr. Sadie T.M. Alexander Conference for Economics and Related Fields was held Feb. 20-22 in Washington, D.C., and drew Black female undergraduate and graduate students and Ph.D. holders in economics from across the UnitedThe first States and Canada.African American Michelle Stevens and Lauren Milton represented Valdosta State Universityswoman to earn a Harley Langdale Jr. College of Business Administration at this prestigiousPh.D. in economics in the United States. Breaking event, where they were able to help address the pipeline and pathwayShe graduated from problem for Black women in economics, finance, data science, and policy.the University of Stevens and Milton experienced esteemed speakers who provided insight onPennsylvania in 1921.how to help Black women succeed in economics, how to provide opportunities Glass for Black women in economics beyond the undergraduate years, and how toThe first support Black women as they navigate professional spaces.African American woman Invited to speak were practicing economists and policy practitioners Ceilings across academia, government, industry, and non-governmentalto receive a law degree from the University of agencies, including Janet Yellen, treasury secretary for the UnitedPennsylvania Law School.States; Bridget Terry Long, dean of the Harvard Graduate School of Education; Akunna Cook, founder of the Black Economic Alliance; and Ebele Ifedigbo, founder of The Hood Incubator. The first As part of the conference, Stevens and Milton were able toAfrican American woman to network with leaders from 28 different businesses.practice law in Pennsylvania. This experience opened my eyes to the fact that there areThe first people out there who support me, Stevens said. I have been able to network with many different people who are willing tonational president of Delta Sigma connect me to the right people in my field. Theta Sorority.I had the opportunity to speak to representatives from a variety of companies that were looking for recent graduatesThe first to apply for their internships, Milton said. Having this opportunity allowed me to talk about myself and my future.African American woman appointed During the course of these discussions several of themas assistant city solicitor for the city of encouraged me to give them a call upon my graduation. Philadelphia in 1928.SPRING 2021 17'