The first Black leader of the U.S. Department of Labor, former Secretary Alexis Herman, has died at the age of 77.
Former President Bill Clinton nominated Herman to the role, which she held from 1997 to 2001, following a career in social work, civil rights and Democratic politics.
"Hillary and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Alexis Herman, our friend of nearly fifty years," former President Clinton said in a statement. "Our hearts and prayers are with her family and all who loved and admired her."
Current Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer said in a statement that Herman "was a trailblazer who dedicated her life to strengthening America's workforce and creating better lives for hardworking families."