Recognized for her historic leadership as the first Black woman CEO of YWCA Madison, Vanessa McDowell-Atlas led the organization through a transformative period of growth, strengthening our mission impact in racial justice, housing stability, and economic empowerment over seven years while building meaningful community partnerships. Her leadership centers the voices and experiences of BIPOC staff and communities, shaping a more inclusive, values-driven organizational culture grounded in courage and purpose.
Today, Vanessa serves as Chief Operating Officer of Black Girl Ventures, expanding access to capital and resources for under-resourced founders, while also leading VMA Transformational Leadership Coaching to support women and leaders of color in navigating leadership with authenticity and purpose, and co-founding Madison Roots LLC to advance Black wealth building and housing stability in the Madison community.
“Being honored as a Woman of Distinction has truly left me speechless and deeply honored. Madison is the community that raised me, and to now share this recognition with my mother, who was also honored, is something I never imagined and represents a powerful legacy.”
