Degrees of Ambition

Belle | Style Weekly's Magazine for Richmond Women
August/September 2007

Degrees of Ambition

Lillian Lambert is putting pen to paper.

Richmonder Lillian Lambert graduated from Harvard Business School in 1969, the first African-American woman to do so. Although she finds that achievement personally rewarding, she sees the event in a much larger context, she says: "My being there was somewhat instrumental in the school taking action on better diversification of its student body."

After 35 years of entrepreneurial success and raising five children, Lambert is turning to a new endeavor: writing. She hopes to have her memoir accepted by a publisher soon, allowing her to move forward with what she calls a "hybrid book" – part autobiography, part business motivation and part life advice.

One of the principles that's helped her along the way, she says: "If you want something badly enough, you'll find a way to get it."

She's been busy sharing her advice, speaking in June to the Richmond Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners. And earlier this year, Lambert received an award that entails a trip to South Africa to visit a winery owned by a later female graduate of Harvard Business. While there Lambert will speak to black wine vendors on the importance of alliances.

"It is more beneficial to collaborate than be competitive," Lambert says. There are "ways to work together even for competing businesses that will in turn spell success for each individual business owner."

An agent with Keller Williams, Lambert sells real estate to first-time homebuyers and finds time for relaxation, too. Once skeptical about golf, she now finds it a challenge in which patience and resiliency reign, a challenge she recognizes as a lot like life. -Amy Ritchie.
 

Testimonials

"Ms. Lambert is a gifted storyteller who knows the power of a story to make a point. Her spirit and drive are contagious."

Alisa L. Griffin, Business Analyst II
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

"Lillian's speech was very enjoyable. Terrific ideas and heartfelt stories that I will remember always."

Angela B. Creech, JD
Northwestern Mutual Financial Network

"Lillian, thank you for such an engaging presentation filled with useful information that I can apply to my personal life and business. Your points were well presented through your stories."

Donna Rominiecki, Partner
Vmeals (Point & Click Meals, LLC)

"Lillian Lambert tells a compelling story of her rise from humble origins to making history as the first African-American woman to earn an MBA from Harvard. Her strength of character, sage advice, coupled with her no-nonsense delivery, will resonate on some meaningful level with everyone in the audience."

Bill Bussey, Provost
Noble and Greenough School

"Lillian's guiding principles are solid, inspirational and motivational. Her resume is impressive. Overcoming all kinds of obstacles, she has achieved success - academic (MBA - Harvard) and entrepreneurial. She embodies her principles. Excellent presentation!"

Dr. Clark Scanlon, Retired
Baptist International Board

"It's not just what Lillian has done that's inspiring, it's who she is. Thank you for both."

Mary Foley, Woman In Charge
Bodacious! Ventures

"Thank you, Lillian! At about 4:30 this morning, I finished reading your book. What a great, inspiring story! I’m really in awe of you and of all you’ve accomplished. You’re a wonderful role model, not only for African-American girls, but for all young people, regardless of gender or color! I’m honored to be able to call you a friend."

Charles O. Heller
Former Member, Dingman Center
University of Maryland

"I love Dream Big-Act Now! I have big dreams and will continue to chase them. It's nice to know that I'm not the only late bloomer."

Jill F. Reynolds, Business Owner
Party Perfect

"I just finished reading your book. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I loved reading about your family, your hard work to get through Howard and Harvard and the beginning and growth of your business. But it was the chapters on leadership that I wish I had been able to have in front of me when I was a manager."

Janice Robinson
Federal Government Manager

"I found your presentation useful and appropriate for our organization. You took the time to research our organization and the history of nursing."

Darnell Glass
Mount Sinai Rehabilitation

"I met you last week at James River High School and purchased your book. I finished reading it over the weekend and I must say I Loved your book. Thank you so very much for sharing of yourself to the world. I was very inspired by your testimony and I'm sure the book only touched the surface of all you endured on your journey to success."

Teshia Wright, Broker
Ivy League Realty, LLC

"The Daffodil Principle – planting one bulb at a time – took my breath away. You confirmed and reinforced many of my thoughts and activities to ensure success."

Alison W. Eckis, Employee Benefits Specialist
Straus, Itzkowitz & LeCompte

"I enjoyed hearing you speak. The speech was very inspirational. I would love to have you do a seminar at my business. I will be in touch."

Gayle Taylor, Vice President
Professional Training & Consulting, LLC

"Excellent presentation! As a 'very late bloomer', I am inspired to keep reaching, keep planning and enjoy the journey."

Rose Boeckman
Virginia Cooperative Extension

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