MAXINE WATERS

CHAIR, HOUSE COMMITTEE ON FINANCIAL SERVICES U.S. CONGRESS

Serving in the House of Representatives since 1990, Waters is the most senior of the black women currently serving in Congress and she is among the most outspoken advocates for the business, financial, and economic concerns of people of color. This former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus (1997-1999) led congressional efforts to reduce foreclosures and keep American families in their homes during the housing and economic crises through her role as chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity in the previous two Congresses. Moreover, she has been praised by African American entrepreneurs for her work to expand contracting and procurement opportunities. In fact, in her role as House Financial Services chair, she has recently released a report on the lack of diversity and inclusion at the nation’s largest banks and plans to hold hearings in the spring. Now 81, Waters continues to provide encouragement and financial support to women seeking public office. “I believe in the power of the second wind,” she says.

BACK TO 50 MOST IMPACTFUL WOMEN LISTING