Lorina Marshall-Blake, president of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation and vice president of Community Affairs for Independence Blue Cross, will receive the 2015 Women’s Initiative Award during United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey’s (UWGPSNJ) Women’s Initiative Gala on March 25 at the Crystal Tea Room. The gala is the major fundraiser for Girls Today, Leaders Tomorrow, the signature program of UWGPSNJ’s Women’s Initiative in southeastern Pennsylvania, a leadership network committed to philanthropy and volunteerism by increasing the impact of women donors and strengthening programs for underserved women and girls.
Marshall-Blake’s commitment to philanthropy and volunteerism made her an obvious choice to receive the Women’s Initiative Award, said Jim Cawley, president & CEO of United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey.
“For many years, Lorina has been a great champion for United Way, using her influence to help advance our work in the areas of Education, Income and Health, within Independence Blue Cross and throughout the region,” Cawley said. “Lorina embodies what it means to be a woman in leadership. She is hard-working, highly-respected and willing to give her time to ensure others have access to opportunities that will improve their lives. She is a wonderful role model for any woman who strives to succeed in her personal and professional endeavors.”
A native of West Philadelphia, Marshall-Blake is a true advocate for empowering women, inspiring change and improving lives. She is a member of more than 30 professional and civic organizations, including the United Negro College Fund, Urban Affairs Coalition and the Governor’s Patient Safety Authority. She is also affiliated with 2000 African American Women, the Community College of Philadelphia Foundation, Albright College, National Coalition of 100 Black Women and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., where she is basileus of the sorority’s Omega Omega Chapter. In addition to her corporate and community responsibilities, she serves as an associate minister at the Vine Memorial Baptist Church in Philadelphia, Pa.
“I am truly honored and humbled to receive this award, especially considering the fact that a select group of dynamic women whom I admire have been previous recipients,” Marshall-Blake said. “I have always admired the tremendous impact that has been made in the lives of young ladies who are a part of the Girls Today, Leaders Tomorrow program, so I am deeply thankful that United Way would think I am deserving of this award, but I am also excited to help raise awareness of the organization’s work in helping young ladies and women in greatest need.”
