The College of Social Sciences and Public Policy Women’s Leadership Network (WLN) recently hosted Doby Flowers (B.S. Social Work ’71; M.S. Urban & Regional Planning ’73) for a luncheon and a conversation about leadership. Flowers shared advice for being a successful game changer in any field while reflecting on stories of her own leadership journey.
WLN connects like-minded students in COSSPP who are hoping to improve their leadership and professional skills. While the WLN was originally a graduate-student organization, it expanded in 2023 to include undergraduate students and now has events open to all students in the College.
“Ms. Flowers mentioned that being a leader is about more than recognition. You should be able to look back and note others following you – if not, you’re probably doing something wrong,” said Rose Clermont, third-year Public Health and International Affairs dual major, WLN Alumni Relations Chair.
Flowers recalled her life experiences and relationship with leadership, beginning with becoming FSU’s first African American Homecoming Queen in 1970. She detailed the tribulations she faced during this time, but how they accumulated into greater outcomes because of her determined outlook. She explained how it is vital to stand up for yourself, not just for what you want, but what you know you deserve.
After her time at FSU, Flowers went on to work in public services in high-profile mayoral administrations in Boston and New York for many years, before moving to W. R. Grace & Company, where she became the first global African American executive. In 2018, Doby Flowers and brother Fred Flowers, J.D. (B.A. Philosophy ’69; M.S. Urban & Regional Planning ’73) co-founded FSU’s Civil Rights Institute, which commemorates, celebrates, and studies the U.S. civil rights movement to promote justice and equality at FSU and in communities where we work and serve.
Doby Flowers now owns a bed and breakfast in Thomasville, Ga., providing a space for business leaders to organize retreats, network, and learn.
“To be a leader you must be competent, compassionate, and empathetic,” said Evelsa Cherubin, fourth-year International Affairs and Psychology double major.
To stay involved and get inspired, connect with COSSPP’s WLN and check out more of their events by following on Instagram: @wlnundergrad and @wlngrad.
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