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The first Black female president of the American Chemical Society is Dr. Dorothy J. Phillips. She has devoted her life to dispelling myths, paving the way for future generations of scientists, and inspiring young people to consider STEM-related careers.

Growing up, Dr. Phillips dreamed of being president. She intended to major in history, practice law, and eventually become president of the United States.

“For my era, this was something that was not achievable,” she told C&EN.

Growing up in the segregated South, she was surrounded by civil rights leaders and attorneys, such as Thurgood Marshall, who shaped her early conception of success in the workplace. Science seemed far away and unreachable, but law was a definite route.

She ultimately made her way to Vanderbilt University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in 1967, making history as the first Black woman to do so.

Being one of the few Black students in her program, Dr. Phillips faced several challenges, such as loneliness and the pressure to succeed in a sometimes unwelcoming environment.

“When I walked into a room, I often felt like I had to be twice as good just to be seen as equal,” she told Science Club for Girls.

Despite these obstacles, she persevered, produced outstanding research, and won the admiration of her classmates and instructors. Later, in 1974, she graduated with a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Cincinnati.

For those who would come after her, she laid a strong foundation. She has conducted important studies in analytical chemistry, bioseparation, and viral RNA conformation. Prior to retiring as Director of Strategic Marketing at Waters Corporation, she was employed at Dow Chemical.

Dr. Phillips was chosen as a director-at-large to the ACS Board of Directors in 2013, following his retirement from Waters. Representing ACS on the Science and Human Rights Coalition of the American Association for the Advancement of Science since 2014 is one of her favorite parts of her board role, she said. This coalition is made up of a number of societies and organizations that are working to increase the involvement of the scientific and technical sectors in global human rights advocacy.

Throughout her career, she has assumed significant leadership positions and has been an ardent advocate for diversity in STEM as the Director on the Board of the American Chemical Society (ACS). She has spent a lot of time creating programs that increase access to STEM and empower young scientists and chemists from marginalized backgrounds.

As President, Dr. Phillips is able to teach new professionals, lobby for programs that increase scientific representation, and impact legislation. She believes that being a leader is about more than just holding a title; it’s about making a difference.

“Leadership is about lifting as you climb, it’s about creating opportunities for those who come after you, ensuring that the path is a little easier for them than it was for you.” she said.

Diversity in STEM has long been a priority for Dr. Phillips. She is aware that “being what you can’t see is harder.” For this reason, she has made it her goal to mentor and encourage budding scientists, particularly those from underrepresented groups.

“Programs like Science Club for Girls are essential because they give young women the confidence and role models they need to see that they belong in STEM,” she said.

When asked what advice she would give young women, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, Dr. Phillips is clear:

“There is a world in which you can be a scientist. But you must believe in yourself. Science requires dedication, hard work, and confidence. You can’t do it alone—find mentors, seek guidance, and surround yourself with people who will help you succeed. And remember, science is global. Don’t limit yourself to the opportunities in front of you. Get a passport. Explore the world.”

For her leadership and scientific accomplishments, Dr. Phillips has received numerous honors, including the Percy L. Julian Award and the Vanderbilt University Trailblazer title.

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