Marie Dutton Brown

Marie Dutton Brown stands as a towering figure in the world of book publishing. With an illustrious career spanning 57 years, she is known as an iconic editor, literary agent, and diversity champion, who has left an indelible mark on the industry, earning her the distinction of being hailed as a trailblazer and a living legend.

Born with an innate passion for storytelling and a fervent commitment to championing marginalized voices, Brown embarked on her journey in the literary realm, shaping the landscape of literature for generations to come. As the president of her namesake literary agency nestled in Harlem's vibrant Sugar Hill community, Brown has tirelessly advocated for diversity and inclusion within the publishing sphere, recognizing the transformative power of literature to bridge cultural divides and amplify underrepresented voices. Her visionary leadership has paved the way for marginalized writers and editors, fostering a more inclusive and representative literary landscape.

In recognition of her unparalleled contributions, Brown, one of only a small group of Black literary agents, was honored as the first inductee into the Publishing Hall of Fame. She was also bestowed with the Media Trailblazer Award by the Women's Media Group in 2024.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Brown dedicates her time and expertise to various nonprofit boards, including Faith Ringgold's Anyone Can Fly Foundation and the Sugar Hill Children's Museum of Art and Storytelling. Her unwavering commitment to nurturing creativity and fostering cultural enrichment underscores her profound dedication to community empowerment and social progress.