Midshipman 1st Class Sydney Barber was recently named the first Black female brigade commander at the United States Naval Academy, according to the Washington Post.
She will be the 16th woman to serve as brigade commander, a position chosen by school leaders. Beginning next semester, Barber, who is studying mechanical engineering, will lead 4,400 students and oversee daily activities at the Naval Academy, the Post reported.
“Earning the title of brigade commander speaks volumes, but the title itself is not nearly as significant as the opportunity it brings to lead a team in doing something I believe will be truly special,” Barber said in a statement. “I am humbled to play a small role in this momentous season of American history.”
