Commander Janie Mines made history as the first Black woman to graduate from the United States Naval Academy (USNA). Her journey is a story of resilience, determination, and groundbreaking achievements. Let’s delve into her remarkable accomplishments, both during and after her time at the Academy.
Breaking Barriers at the United States Naval Academy
In 1976, the United States Naval Academy opened its doors to women for the first time. Among the first admitted cohort of 81 women (6% of the class) was Mines. The challenges she faced were formidable. The environment was not always welcoming, and she had to navigate the rigorous demands of the Academy while breaking down racial and gender barriers.
Despite these challenges, Commander Mines demonstrated exceptional resilience and determination. She excelled in her studies and physical training, proving herself as a capable and dedicated midshipman. Her perseverance paid off, and in 1980, she graduated with a degree in general engineering, making history as the first Black woman to graduate from the USNA. Mines recalls men cheering for her as she passed her last test there while struggling through an injury. It was an inspirational send-off.
Related: USNA Hero Highlight: Michelle J. Howard
Accomplishments After the Academy
Mines’ time at the United States Naval Academy was marked by numerous achievements, setting the stage for a distinguished career in both the military and civilian sectors. Mines embarked on a successful career in the United States Navy, where she served as a supply corps officer and was responsible for managing supplies, logistics, and financial operations. In addition to tours at the Naval Training Center Orlando and the Pentagon, Mines served on the USS Emory S. Land (AS-39) as part of the first generation of women officers serving on ships. Mines also served as a senior advisor on the staff of the Secretary of the Navy. Mines went on to attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sloan School of Management. She graduated in 1998, with an MBA and a thesis entitled “Integrated Change Management,” and began a successful career in the corporate world. She went on to hold management and executive positions at several Fortune 500 companies, including Procter & Gamble, Frito-Lay, Hershey Foods, and Bank of America.
Her business acumen and leadership skills helped her navigate the complexities of the corporate world with the same determination she displayed at the Naval Academy.
Related: USNA Notable Graduate: Captain Margaret D “Peg” Klein
Throughout this time, Commander Mines also leveraged her experience and education to advocate for diversity and inclusion in both military and corporate environments. In fact, she used her platform to inspire and mentor others, particularly women and minorities pursuing careers in the military and STEM fields. Her story is not just about breaking barriers, but also about creating opportunities for others to follow in her footsteps.
Commander Mines is deeply committed to mentorship. She actively engages with young professionals and students, offering guidance and support to help them navigate their careers. Her mentorship is rooted in her belief that everyone should have the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background. Commander Mines regularly mentors midshipmen and young Navy officers. In 2019, she published her memoir No Coincidences: Reflections of the First Black Female Graduate of the United States Naval Academy, featuring 25 stories based on common questions she fields from junior officers about the challenges she overcame at the USNA.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion
As a trailblazer, Mines has also been a vocal advocate of diversity and inclusion. She understands the importance of representation and works tirelessly to promote policies and practices that support the advancement of women and minorities in all sectors. Mines frequently shares her experiences and insights through public speaking engagements and writing. She has also been involved as a member of the Secretary of Defense’s Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services (DACOWITS), an organization established in 1951 that supported her when she was at the Academy. Mines believes it’s important to ''pay it forward…and be there for others.''
Notable Awards
Commander Mines has received a number of important accolades for her work, among them the Office of the Secretary of Defense Award for Exceptional Public Service and the United States Congressional Record Proclamation for Service. She is also a National Women of Color in Business Award Winner. She has served on various boards and is president of Common Cents Business Services, Inc. In 2021, she received the Distinguished Graduate Award from the USNA Alumni Association.
Continuing the Legacy
Mines’ legacy at the United States Naval Academy and beyond is profound. She paved the way for future generations of women and minorities, demonstrating that with determination and hard work, it is possible to overcome even the most formidable obstacles. Her story continues to inspire countless individuals, showing that diversity and inclusion are not just ideals, but essential components of a thriving, innovative, and successful organization. Mines’ achievements remind us that breaking barriers is not just about personal success, but also about lifting others and creating a more inclusive and equitable world.
Mines’ journey from the United States Naval Academy to a distinguished career in both the military and corporate worlds is a testament to her strength, resilience, and leadership. Her commitment to mentorship, advocacy, and education ensures her legacy will continue to inspire and empower for years to come. It’s fitting that in 2002, she was honored as an Olympic torchbearer, since she has lit the way for so many.
Thank You to Our Notable Graduates
We salute Commander Mines and all USNA graduates, who have laid a welcoming path for our current midshipmen. We encourage you to come visit the Yard, where that spirit is palpable. When you spend time on the Yard and enjoy a meal, make a purchase, or take a USNA tour, you’re supporting the midshipmen that support our freedom. The profits from these activities provide funding for the extracurricular activities like cultural arts, music, theater, club sports, and more that foster teamwork and camaraderie among the Brigade. Come see where history is happening every day.
