A young woman from the U.S. Naval Academy is making strides as the first Black female brigade commander, reports WBAL-TV.
“I feel extremely privileged and blessed to be part of that history, and when I see other females making history, like (Vice President) Kamala Harris and so many others, I just can’t help but smile,” said Midshipman First Class Sydney Barber.
Barber, of Lake Forest, Illinois, was chosen among 30 candidates as the Naval Academy’s brigade commander. She is the first Black woman to hold that position, which is the highest leadership position within the brigade and it’s similar to being student body president. She is the sole representative of all 4,000 midshipmen.
“I carry out the commandant’s intent and the superintendent’s intent, and I also report to him on all things going on within the brigade,” she said.
The 21-year-old mechanical engineering major is a busy woman. She was a walk-on sprinter and hurdler on the Navy women’s varsity track and field team, and she has lettered all three years of competing.
Barber also initiated a STEM outreach program that mentors middle school-aged girls of color. She most recently organized a team of more than 180 midshipmen, faculty and alumni to develop the Midshipman Diversity Team to promote greater diversity, inclusivity and equity within the brigade.
