Come tomorrow, March 21, Jamaican-born Constance White, who attended Meadowbrook High School ahead of pursuing a journalism degree at New York University, and who began her career at Ms magazine as assistant to co-founder Gloria Steinem, will take up the position as editor-in-chief of Essence magazine.

White, who spoke to SO from an undisclosed holiday vacation, shared how elated she was to have been selected for such a prestigious position. Indeed, Time Inc editor-in-chief John Huey, who announced the appointment, spoke of White’s “20-year career in editorial (which) has exemplified excellence at the highest levels for many of the world’s most trusted brands, and her leadership will assure Essence’s position as the pre-eminent publication for African-American women”.

Essence president Michelle Ebanks, in her congratulatory message, described White as “a visionary and consummate communicator, passionate about the needs of Black women and making sure that they have the tools to make their boldest dreams come true”.

Prior to joining Essence, White served as style director, brand consultant and spokesperson for the leading online company eBay, where she developed content and strategies aimed at women. She is credited with conceiving and creating eBay’s first web-zine, as well as developing a comprehensive editorial environment.

Additionally, White is the author of Stylenoir, a ground-breaking book on black style, and has written extensively on culture, style, lifestyle and contemporary issues and her work has appeared in British Vogue, Glamour, Essence and the international Herald Tribune.

White was previously the founding fashion editor for Talk magazine, a celebrated style reporter for the New York Times and the executive fashion editor for Elle magazine, as well as associate editor at Women’s Wear Daily.