Picture of the Universal Life delegation at the National Insurance Association Convention

Picture of the Universal Life delegation at the National Insurance Association Convention

Workplace, Women in the Workplace

In the Universal Life Insurance Company Magazine (ULICO), the Universal Life Delegation is pictured at the National Insurance Association Convention in Detroit. The convention was assembled by President L.R. Taylor, who spoke directly at the event. The topic of his speech was listed as, “Take a Look at Ourselves.” Taylor spoke about tracing the history of black life insurance companies and what steps need to be taken in order for the companies to survive. Patricia Shaw, pictured on the bottom row, third from the left, is listed as the company’s Assistant Vice President. Shaw began her career at Universal Life Insurance as a keypunch operator and eventually worked her to way up to become the company’s president. Before beginning her job at Universal, Shaw worked in Social work, a career that was seen to be “for women,” at the time. Although she had a business degree from The University of Michigan and The University of Chicago, she was unable to find work in the male-dominated business world. Following social work, Shaw knew that it was time to work for her grandfather’s company. From this photograph we can see the progression that has been made throughout shaw’s career. She was able to attend a President’s convention. Women in the workplace were able to progress through hard work, connections, and dedication, despite the discrimination that they faced.

Universal Life Insurance Company

MSS 109, Box 1

University of Memphis Libraries

Fall 1971

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