The Winifred Burks-Houck Professional Leadership Awards are rewarded annually by the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE) to recognize the contributions of African American Women in scientific and technological fields of study and work.
[1] The award is named for Winifred Burks-Houck, environmental chemist and the first female president of NOBCChE.
[2] The award seeks to highlight achievements in science, technology, engineering and math; leadership; creativity; community service; and entrepreneurship.
[1][3] Winifred Burks-Houck was a notable leader in the NOBCChE having established its West Coast branch and serving as its first female president for four consecutive terms.
[1][2] Distinguished Lecturers are the speakers at the annual Winifred Burks-Houck Professional Leadership Symposium selected based on their status as thought leaders on STEM and roles in leadership, organizational development, entrepreneurship, and other success enabling areas.