The business and leadership community is mourning the unexpected passing of Pamela Prince-Eason, of Piney Flats, Tennessee. As President and CEO of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) since 2011, Pamela was a pioneering force for women entrepreneurs nationwide. Her death marks the end of an era for the women’s business movement and supplier diversity advocacy.
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Transformative Leadership at WBENC
Pamela’s leadership transformed WBENC into one of the country’s most influential organizations dedicated to advancing women-owned businesses and supplier diversity. Under her guidance, WBENC established powerful strategic partnerships and launched innovative programs that significantly expanded opportunities and visibility for thousands of women entrepreneurs.
Her initiatives focused on inclusivity, prioritizing support for women of color and diverse business owners. Through these efforts, Pamela championed access and equity, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of business.
Building Powerful Partnerships
Pamela was widely admired for her strategic vision and her remarkable ability to bring people together. She cultivated impactful collaborations with organizations like the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), WEConnect International, and Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP).
These alliances extended WBENC’s reach and deepened its impact, solidifying Pamela’s reputation as a changemaker and advocate for inclusion.
Influencing National Policy
Beyond her organizational leadership, Pamela’s advocacy extended to the highest levels of government. At the time of her passing, she was serving her third term on the National Women’s Business Council (NWBC), where she advised the President, Congress, and the U.S. Small Business Administration on policy matters affecting women entrepreneurs.
Her expertise helped shape national conversations around equity, business development, and economic empowerment for women.
A Distinguished Corporate and Entrepreneurial Career
Before joining WBENC, Pamela held senior corporate roles, including Vice President of Worldwide Procurement at Pfizer Inc., and executive positions at Texas Instruments, Warner-Lambert, and GSE Systems.
She also embraced entrepreneurship as co-owner of RMR Associates, giving her a rare and comprehensive understanding of both corporate and small business landscapes.
Honors and Recognition
Pamela’s impactful work earned her numerous accolades. She was inducted into the Women’s Business Enterprise Hall of Fame and the Enterprising Women Hall of Fame and received the NAFE Woman of Achievement Award.
In 2023, she was celebrated at the Power Women Moves Gala and featured in the book Women Mean Business, which highlighted influential female leaders across the globe.
A Devoted Family Woman
Outside her professional achievements, Pamela was deeply committed to her family. A graduate of East Tennessee State University and Johns Hopkins University, she balanced her extraordinary career with a rich personal life.
She and her husband, John, raised three children and found joy in their six grandchildren. Pamela loved snowboarding, playing tennis, and spending meaningful time with loved ones — moments she cherished above all.
Conclusion: A Legacy That Lives On
Pamela Prince-Eason’s legacy is profound and enduring. She empowered generations of women, championed inclusion, and touched countless lives through her leadership and compassion.
She will be remembered not only as a visionary leader but also as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her passion, courage, and dedication will continue to inspire future leaders for years to come.
May her memory be a blessing, and may her story encourage all to continue the work of creating a more inclusive and equitable world.