THE United States National Action Network (NAN) paid tribute to Jamaican-American Michelle Stoddart at its 2024 Women’s Empowerment Luncheon held at Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel on April 11. Stoddart was honoured alongside a constellation of luminaries, including MSNBC talk show host Mika Brzezinski, activist and former Georgia House of Representatives member Stacey Abrams, and president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Alexis McGill Johnson.

The event was a celebration of the remarkable achievements of women who have been instrumental in driving change and progress in society. Stoddart, who is the senior vice-president of community development for Resorts World Casino, New York City (NYC), was recognised for her exceptional contribution to community development, public relations, and corporate philanthropy.

NAN was founded by Reverend Al Sharpton in 1991, and is one of the leading civil rights organisations in the United States. Dedicated to promoting a modern civil rights agenda, NAN works within the spirit and tradition of Dr Martin Luther King, Jr to advocate for justice, equality and equal opportunities for all people — regardless of race, religion, nationality or gender.

Sharpton emphasises the importance of empowering black women and amplifying their voices, acknowledging their resilience in the face of immense challenges.

“Black women have long been the backbone of our communities, driving change and progress despite facing immense challenges,” he said. “The Women’s Empowerment Luncheon is not only a celebration of past achievements but also a call to action for future generations. It is a reminder of the importance of empowering black women, supporting their endeavours, and amplifying their voices in a society where they have to work twice as hard to be half as good.”

Stoddart’s journey from her roots in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica, to her current position reflects her unwavering commitment to following her passion and making a positive impact on her community. Starting as a counter clerk at National Commercial Bank, she propelled herself through an unlikely career trajectory, ultimately becoming the first female minority director and now senior vice-president of Resorts World New York and Genting Americas East.

Her journey in community development and corporate leadership has been marked by dedication and innovation. As a member of the executive opening team at Resorts World Casino, she played a pivotal role in handling record-breaking attendance during the casino’s début weekend in October 2011. Since then, Stoddart has been at the forefront of managing community affairs, fostering public relations, nurturing local business partnerships, and spearheading corporate philanthropy initiatives.

Under Stoddart’s guidance Resorts World has supported over 200 non-profit organisations in the New York metropolitan area, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact on society. Additionally, she serves on several boards, including the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation, Queens Chamber of Commerce, and Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning wherein she holds the position of board chair.

Prior to her role at Resorts World, Stoddart distinguished herself as the director of marketing and tourism for Queens Economic Development Corporation. During her tenure she initiated and enhanced several significant projects that contributed to its growth and prominence throughout the borough and beyond.

In recognition of her exemplary leadership and community impact, Stoddart was named on City and State New York Magazine’s The 2020 Responsible 100 list, a compendium of top leaders in NYC’s private sector. Her dedication to fostering leadership and community development is further evidenced by her role in spearheading The Gumbo Coalition University, a six-week leadership webinar series created in partnership with former New Orleans mayor and president of National Urban League Marc Morial.

Her secret to success, she says, lies in her passion and determination.

“I need to find passion and drive for whatever is in front of me,” Stoddart explained. “I’m that person who is extremely flexible, and driven by the words ‘get it done’.”

Her journey took her from Essence magazine to marketing roles at various firms, where she honed her skills and solidified her reputation as a do-it-all, never-say-no worker.

Stoddart’s deep-rooted sense of community stems from her upbringing in Jamaica where service and community were ingrained in her from a young age. Both her parents were actively involved in community service organisations, instilling in her a strong sense of responsibility to help others. This commitment to service has guided Stoddart throughout her career.

Despite her remarkable accomplishments Stoddart is humble and focused on new challenges. Her journey as a black, immigrant, career-focused woman in the United States has not been without challenges but she remains undeterred.

“They’re not going to stop me,” she asserted. “They can put up their fences but I’m going over, around — whatever it takes to get where I want to go.”