I just learned today that earlier this week, Jacqueline Berrien, the first Chair of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission appointed by President Obama, died of cancer at the age of 53.
Ms. Berrien stepped down from the EEOC in 2014. The agency's current Chair is Jenny Yang.
I did not always agree with Ms. Berrien, and I've given her what I hope she took as some good-natured grief about some of the EEOC's positions under her leadership. (Assuming she paid any attention to this blog.) Nonetheless, I am very sorry to hear about her death, and we offer our condolences and prayers to her husband, Peter Williams, and to her family and friends.
The Washington Post has a nice article about Ms. Berrien's career. And here is the press release from the EEOC.
Many thanks to blogging colleague Jason Shinn who alerted us to this news.
- Of Counsel & Chief Legal Editor
Robin also conducts internal investigations and delivers training for HR professionals, managers, and employees on topics such as harassment prevention, disability accommodation, and leave management.
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This is Constangy’s flagship law blog, founded in 2010 by Robin Shea, who is chief legal editor and a regular contributor. This nationally recognized blog also features posts from other Constangy attorneys in the areas of immigration, labor relations, and sports law, keeping HR professionals and employers informed about the latest legal trends.

