The National Arts and Letters Commission was launched on September 24, 1973, under the presidency of 15th National President Lillian Pierce Benbow. Dr. Jeanne L. Noble, 12th National President (1958-63) and university professor, was named chair of the commission. Sorors Leontyne Price and Lena Horne were named co-chairs. The ultimate goal of the National Commission of Arts and Letters has been to boldly advance the black experience; highlighting the artistic contributions of African American people of the past and present and elevating them to public attention with particular emphasis on the positive roles of Black women. The programming is carried out via the Delta Authors, Delta Red Carpet, Pride in Our Heritage and Music Ministry subcommittees.