Our History
Sister-to-Sister: International Network of African American Professional Women, Inc.™ is rooted in faith, community, and family. Originating as Sister-to-Sister, an informal unity creation coalition of ebony women gathered on Sunday, January 17, 1994, to realize the fulfillment of one of the women's understanding that Onyx females require “enriching life spaces” - welcoming, supportive, spaces of belonging and acceptance - to move beyond surviving to thriving. A synergistic 'harmonious' community of self-care and spiritual enrichment resulted. Our communal spaces offer comradery and chances to slow down and commune while learning from and mentoring one another. For 26 years, knowledge, talents, and professional and lived experiences were shared.
February 2020 brought change with the COVID-19 epidemic that took many lives and destroyed families. A core of Black women longtime affiliated with Sister-to-Sister recognized that the focus had to turn outwards due to immense need and suffering plaguing Onyx women and girls. Determining that Sister-to-Sister's impact could be much wider, these natural leaders looked beyond their own circumstances to act, Collaborating, they used their time and dollars to incorporate Sister-to-Sister as a tax-exempt public charity. Over four years, the nonprofit has focused resources on life-threatening issues that other organizations had not. Sister-to-Sister, Inc. is about community, not self-gain. Those interested in helping advance our nonprofit's vision, mission, purpose, and core values are invited to expand community, alongside us.
Our 2023 Impact Report
Sister-to-Sister, Inc. is a strategic, forward-looking public charity with a strong brain trust that includes leaders experienced in healthcare, law, academia, business, and public administration. As such, our organization uses three principle strategies to direct its limited human, financial, and technology resources for maximum impact: education, collaboration-building, and empowerment. We are proud to share our 2023 Impact Report. Review the report by clicking the PDF.
Our Secret Sauce for Longevity
When learning about Sister-to-Sister, Inc.’s "drama-free" longevity through word-of-mouth, we are asked for our secret sauce. Its ingredients are simple. Combine nurturing encouragement and support into a bowl. Add in the main ingredient - community. Invite in others. Be open. Learn. Give. Search for ways to benefit others. Keep going despite the obstacles!
Sister-to-Sister: International Network of Professional African American Women, Inc.™ pays homage to Sisters, who have earned their wings. From its founding in January 1994, and over subsequent decades, these beloved Sisters shared of themselves through selfless generosity, guiding wisdom, knowledge, and joyful spirits. Each opened her heart and home to Sister Circle members. For you, we are eternally grateful. Your brilliant lights will shine forever!
Gladys Johnson, Native South Carolinian
M. Jane Dolphy Taylor, Native Connecticuter
Mary Gordon, Native South Carolinian
Jeannette Tatum, Native Louisianan
Brenda Breland, Native Californian
Malaika Pettigrew, Native Missourian
Sandra Banks, Native Kentuckian
Marcia Walker, Nebraskan
Dellgratia (“Dell”) Nichols , South Carolinian
Pamela Cole, Missourian