theGrio’s 100: Avis Jones-DeWeever, devoted to the progress of women and communities of color

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Who is Avis Jones-DeWeever?

An accomplished writer, scholar and public speaker, Dr. Avis Jones-DeWeever, 45, has devoted her entire professional life to advancing the socioeconomic well-being of women and communities of color.

She is a highly respected authority on race, power, gender, inequality and author of numerous publications focused on women of African descent.

A selection of her works include: Black Women in the Wake of Katrina and Women’s Empowerment Matters: Engaging the Global Economy by Leaving No Woman Behind.

“At the heart of all the work that I do, whether it be my research and writing, my advocacy, and even through my consulting practice, my goal is to connect people with information which inspires action that improves lives within the Black community and especially among Black women,” said Dr. Jones-DeWeever.

She is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Virginia State University and holds a Ph.D. in Government and Politics from the University of Maryland, College Park.

Why is she on theGrio100?

Dr. Jones-DeWeever is the president and CEO of Incite Unlimited, a consulting firm devoted to moving ideas to effect action. She is also host of the new nationally-syndicated radio show Focus Point with Avis Jones-DeWeever, which examines the intersection of race, gender and politics.

Prior to founding Incite, she was executive director of the National Council of Negro Women, the nation’s oldest organization devoted to the advancement of both civil rights and women’s rights. During her tenure, Dr. Jones-DeWeever developed new strategic partnerships with advocacy groups, national organizations, foundations and corporations to strengthen the fundraising capacity of the organization as well as maximize its ability to advance social change.

What’s next for Avis Jones-DeWeever?

Dr. Jones-DeWeever is currently writing a book, tentatively titled Black Women Lead:  Claiming Your Power, Living Your Purpose, Exceptional Leadership in the Boardroom and Beyond.

“The book features a range of interviews from a very select group of African-American female leaders who have excelled in a variety of fields, ranging from corporate America, non-profit fields and public service,” she said.

Dr. Jones-DeWeever told theGrio she hopes her forthcoming work with inspire the next generation of black women leaders, whom she believes, quite frankly, have the power to change the world.