As assistant director of the Durham Sports Commission, Lulu Black is redefining what it means to lead in the sports world. Hailing from Indianapolis, Black’s journey has been one of resilience, advocacy, and community impact. Her recent recognition as a 2024 Women in Business Awards winner is just the latest milestone in a career built on breaking barriers and amplifying underrepresented voices.
In the past year, Black has accomplished several feats, including her role as a U.S. International University Sports Federation (FISU) Ambassador, joining the Durham Sports Commission team, and contributing to N.C. State’s two-time national championship women’s cross country team. But for Black, these accolades are more than personal triumphs—they’re platforms for change.
Looking ahead, Black is focused on leveraging her position to advocate for underserved communities in sports, particularly women and minorities. “Sports have the power to address real-world issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging,” she says. Another key priority is mental health in athletics, a subject close to her heart. Drawing from her own experiences as a collegiate athlete, Black is determined to equip others with the resources they need to navigate the pressures of competitive sports.
Her journey hasn’t been without challenges. Balancing the demands of an elite athletic program with personal growth was no small feat. Yet, those trials shaped her into a leader who values authenticity and resilience. “It forced me to discover who I was outside of sport and helped me build an identity beyond being an athlete,” she reflects.
Black’s commitment extends beyond her professional life. She is a passionate supporter of the One Team One Durham Fund, which provides youth sports opportunities for children who might otherwise be excluded due to financial constraints. “We never want cost to be the barrier that prevents kids from gaining valuable experiences,” she emphasizes.
Inspiration for Black comes from within her organization. She credits Kaila’Shea Menendez, deputy director of the Durham Sports Commission, as a role model. “She’s fierce, compassionate, and intentional—everything I aspire to be as a leader,” Black says.
As she navigates the year ahead, Black sees both challenges and opportunities in promoting diversity and inclusion within sports. She draws on the wisdom of her executive director, Marcus Manning: “Where there are challenges, there are also opportunities.” With a supportive community behind her, Black is confident in her mission to foster equity and belonging in Durham’s vibrant sports scene.
For Black, success isn’t just about professional achievements; it’s also about staying grounded. When asked who she’d invite to dinner, her answer is simple: her family. “Nothing beats a meal with my dad, mom, and twin brother,” she says. It’s this balance of ambition and connection that makes Lulu Black a transformative force in her field.
