Brenda W. McDuffie, the first woman president and CEO of the Buffalo Urban League Inc., has been appointed to the UB Council by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo. Her term, which began in December, will run through June 2023.

The UB Council serves as the primary oversight and advisory body to the university, its president and senior officers. Established in accordance with New York State Education Law, the council consists of 10 members, nine of whom are appointed by the governor, and one student member elected annually by the university's students.

Since McDuffie assumed leadership of the Buffalo Urban League in 1998, it has grown to serve more than 20,000 individuals annually, addressing their economic and social needs. She and her team have achieved recognition throughout Western New York for their advocacy and exemplary work strengthening families, improving education outcomes and increasing economic opportunities for individuals and businesses.

McDuffie has dedicated her life to serving others. Her recognition of the value and gifts of each individual has given her a unique ability to work effectively with people from all walks of life — grassroots to grass tops. She has served local, state and national organizations, among them the Greater Buffalo Savings Bank board (founding member), Independent Health Association board, Western New York Regional Economic Development Council (executive committee), Western New York Power Proceeds board, Buffalo State College (trustee), Buffalo and Erie County Workforce Development board (vice chair), New York State Re-Entry Council, New York State Farmer Labor Wage board, and the National Urban League.

She currently serves as the first woman chair of the Erie County Industrial Development Agency.

Over the past decade, she has been recognized annually as one of the most influential leaders in Western New York, receiving numerous awards and recognition for her advocacy, leadership and service.

A native of Brooklyn, McDuffie received her undergraduate degree in human services from Buffalo State College and her graduate certification in human resources from UB’s School of Management.