By: Lennard James
In the heart of the Mississippi Delta, a remarkable woman is leaving an indelible mark on the lives of families and communities. Dr. Pam Chatman, a visionary leader and advocate for change, is a force to be reckoned with in the realms of social justice, community service, and economic development. Her journey mirrors that of Civil Rights Activist Fannie Lou Hamer, as they share the same birthday and an unwavering commitment to serving humanity.
Dr. Chatman’s accolades are numerous and well-deserved. She has been honored with the prestigious Harriet Tubman Award by the Mississippi Magnolia Bar Association, recognizing her courageous leadership in the Delta. The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award from the men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity further acknowledges her outstanding community outreach efforts.
Her impact goes beyond local recognition, as Congressman Bennie G Thompson has immortalized Dr. Chatman in the congressional records of history. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have also acknowledged her leadership role in Mississippi, highlighting her dedication to creating sustainable opportunities for families.
Most recently, Dr. Chatman received the Humanitarian Of the Year award in Scottsdale, Arizona, from the Women Doing It Big organization. Nominated as one of the 2023 Women Who Change the World, she has proven herself as a transformative figure and Mississippi’s first Black Woman News Director.
At the core of Dr. Chatman’s work is the Boss Lady Economic Planning Development Workforce Transportation organization. A true grassroots initiative, this organization wastes no time in executing solutions to address pressing issues on the ground. By working closely with FedEx Express, they’ve provided free transportation, breaking down barriers to employment for 5000 families in the Mississippi Delta.
Boss Lady PChatman is not just a title; it is a testament to her mission and values. B Bold, O Optimistic, S Successful, S Sisters – this is the mantra that defines her commitment to making a difference. Her organization is not limited to economic development alone; it extends into various spheres, including housing assistance, home improvements, feeding thousands in need, medication assistance, and rent/utilities assistance.
Collaborating with national organizations such as the Kellogg Foundation, Walton Foundation, Save the Children, and CARES, Dr. Chatman expands her reach and impact. Her initiatives, like the Boss Lady Snack Shack and the Brown Bag Elderly Relief Hunger Initiative, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to fighting hunger in schools and among the elderly.
One standout initiative is BossGiving, an event aiming to place community giving on a national platform. Driven by the philosophy that serving and giving should be at the core of every organization, BossGiving seeks to connect and empower others in providing resources for children and families in crisis.
Dr. Pam Chatman’s background in broadcasting uniquely positions her as a history-maker in the industry. As the first Black woman in Mississippi to be a News Director, she witnessed the struggles of families in need firsthand. With a goal to help someone along her way, Dr. Chatman’s organization stands out for its swift and direct execution in providing resources and assistance to families in crisis.
Looking ahead, Dr. Pam Chatman envisions her organization continuing to make a significant impact across the southeast. With a commitment to helping more children and women and a determination to be a beacon of assistance for every family in need, the Boss Lady PChatman and her organization are on a trajectory to leave an enduring legacy.
In Dr. Chatman’s own words, “We hope that the readers benefit by seeing there are organizations who work 7 days a week, 325 days a year to try to help. With direct assistance and services for the entire family who are in a crisis, Boss Lady PChatman and her team remind us of all that we have the ‘Power to Empower.'”
Published By: Aize Perez
