In 1964 while serving as “First Lady” at Texas College in Tyler, Texas, Mrs. Willie Lee Glass was the recipient of a luncheon invitation from Mrs. Lyndon Baines Johnson, “First Lady” of the United States of America. Mrs. Glass could not attend so she sent a former student, Major Ozell Dean, to represent her at this power luncheon. Major Dean answered the call and was among a multi-disciplinary bevy of outstanding women from all over the world to attend the luncheon. She was impressed and inspired as a result of what took place at the luncheon and shared her enthusiasm with Mrs. Glass. Mrs. Franchell Boswell, who was a relative of Lady Glass, was contacted. These trailblazers assisted Major Dean in contacting other persons to ascertain if enough concern, interest and strength could be generated among distinguished women (who would agree to work cooperatively) to help alleviate the myriad of problems confronting youth in our respective communities. A group of distinguished and respected women answered the call. It is from this idea and nucleus that Top Ladies of Distinction, Incorporated has developed into an internationally known and respected public service organization.

Since its inception, the organization has expanded its objectives to include its focus on youth known as Top Teens of America, improving the status of women, service to senior citizens, community beautification and community partnerships. Chapters nationwide support the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), United Negro College Fund (UNCF), Sickle Cell Disease Awareness, and the awarding of national scholarships to at least one in each of TLOD’s six geographic areas. Moreover, TLOD has included in its program, a cooperative peer education facet with Top Teens of America and the National Foundation, March of Dimes.

Ongoing programs and projects are important to the fulfillment of TLOD’s mission. As “shapers of change,” members of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. have, through each administration, continued their efforts toward “Serving Youth and Adults.”