Laura Douglas is making history as the first Black woman to lead the Muhammad Ali Center, WHAS 11 news reports.

Douglas is a respected businesswoman and leader in the legal, education, and social justice communities. She has served on the board of directors of the Muhammad Ali Center for a decade. This week, she was named as interim CEO of the center, making her the first woman and the first Black woman to hold the title.

Former President and CEO Donald Lassere resigned last month after serving in the capacity for nine years. Lassere will now work as president and CEO of the Chicago History Museum. A national search for a permanent CEO has been launched, with Douglas filling in temporarily. The Ali Center has been closed to the public during the pandemic and is scheduled to reopen April 1st with Douglas at the helm.

“Laura is a proven leader with a distinguished track record of success in whatever endeavor she takes on. The Center’s Executive Committee is extremely grateful for Laura’s commitment to step into this interim leadership role at this exciting time in our history, and we have full confidence in her abilities. She is the right person at the right time to fill this interim role,” said Robert Croft, chairman of the board.

Congratulations Laura!