1st Black Labor Secretary and MGM Board Member Alexis Herman Passes Away

MGM Resorts International is mourning the loss of Alexis Herman, a longtime board member and former US Secretary of Labor, who passed away earlier this week at 77. Herman, a pioneer in government service and the private sector forged an impressive legacy across decades of leadership. Her community-facing initiatives helped improve millions of lives while her business acumen empowered businesses.

Herman Had a Storied Political Career

MGM Resorts president and CEO Bill Hornbuckle honored Herman’s lasting legacy, describing her profound impact on the company and its culture. Hornbuckle noted Herman provided guidance and mentorship that shaped the careers of many across the organization. Her ongoing commitment to excellence lives on as other leaders at MGM and throughout the community carry on her legacy.

Alexis was an incredible woman and a tireless champion of our company and our culture, helping to ground every board deliberation with her compassion, sound judgment, and valuable business expertise.

Bill Hornbuckle, MGM Resorts president and CEO

Born on July 16, 1947, in Mobile, Alabama, Herman grew up to value education and perseverance. After graduating from Xavier University of Louisiana with a sociology degree, she quickly became a leading civil rights activist and workplace equality advocate. By age 29, she became the youngest director in history to head the US Department of Labor’s Women’s Bureau in the Carter Administration.

President Bill Clinton appointed Herman Secretary of Labor in 1997, the first Black woman to hold that position. While in office, Herman was instrumental in negotiating the resolution of the 1997 UPS workers’ strike, one of the largest in recent history. She fought for federal minimum wage increases, helped enhance workplace safety, and spearheaded enforcement against companies violating child labor laws.

Her Legacy Remains Strong

After leaving public service, Herman continued to influence policy and business, founding A.M. Herman & Associates, a diversity and workforce strategy consulting firm. She went on to join the boards of companies like MGM Resorts, Coca-Cola, and Toyota. Herman is fondly remembered as a respected voice in shaping company policy, spearheading many diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Tributes poured in from all sides of the political and social spectrum. The NAACP called Herman a “pioneering leader” and noted her legacy would continue to inspire generations. Former President Clinton also reflected on Herman’s career, describing how her optimism and energy uplifted those around her as she fought to protect vulnerable individuals.

Alexis Herman was a skillful and creative administrator who worked to empower women and strengthen families.

Bill Clinton

Herman’s passing marks the end of an illustrious career defined by breaking social barriers, supporting worker rights, and forging opportunities for marginalized groups. Her legacy endures as others continue championing her dedication to uplifting others, whether in the government or the private sector.