Welcome to the 105th Year of the Junior League of Birmingham! Thank you for the honor to serve as your President for the upcoming league year. What an amazing opportunity that I do not take lightly. Before we step forward, let us pause to honor what has brought us here.

For 104 years, women of the JLB have chosen service over comfort, impact over ease, and legacy over recognition. Because of their courage, their sacrifice, and their vision, we stand stronger today continuing to make meaningful impact across Birmingham and the surrounding communities.

This year, we don’t simply continue the work. We carry it forward. The Junior League of Birmingham has never been just an organization.
It is a force. A sisterhood. A commitment to building something bigger than ourselves. We are women who step forward even when it’s inconvenient. We make room for others even when it’s not popular. We lead, not by title, but by action and by presence.
Our membership is the pillar of our strength which is grounded in volunteerism, collaboration, and the intentional development of women leaders. And when we show up fully, we don’t just make an impact, we create pathways for others to follow. That is OUR mission. That is OUR responsibility. Because when the lights turn on in this building, we develop women leaders who serve and support our community.
And when the lights turn off, the mission lives within each of us. This is not the work of one. This is the power of WE.

So, as we begin this 105th year, we do so with intention and grounded in gratitude for the legacy behind us and driven by boldness for what lies ahead. Together, we will build. Together, we will lead. Together, we will serve. Welcome to Year 105. Building a Better Birmingham ❤️ TOGETHER!

With the utmost honor,
Shanika Gibson, JLB President 2026-2027