Ms. Black Royal International - Mary Sumo
Mary Sumo is a visionary leader, community advocate, and champion for educational equity. A proud native of the Historical Black Town of Langston, Oklahoma, with roots tracing back to Liberia, she brings a rich cultural heritage to her work and service.
Mary is the CEO of Pipeline Oklahoma, an organization committed to closing the gap between education and professional readiness, especially within underserved communities. With over a decade of experience in talent acquisition, she has made a powerful impact in the aviation industry—most recently leading HBCU recruitment initiatives at The Boeing Company. Her efforts have created pathways for diverse talent in STEAM fields and earned her the 2024 Women of Color (WOC) Rising Star Award for excellence in advancing diversity and innovation.
An alumna of Tennessee State University, Mary holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master’s in Community Counseling. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership at Liberty University, a journey that fuels her heart-centered approach to leadership and transformation.
Deeply rooted in community and faith, Mary designed the Graceful and Brave Preparatory Course for girls at Secret Place Community Church—an initiative focused on personal development, etiquette, and spiritual growth. She also serves as a minister and is an active participant in the church’s Urban Leadership Academy, blending spiritual maturity with leadership in action.
Mary’s heart for service extends to the pageant world. She served as Ms. Black Oklahoma International Ambassador 2023, and Ms. Black Oklahoma USA in 2024. Through her platform, she advocates empowering leaders and redefining what it means to lead with both grace and grit.
Known for her love of learning and innovation, Mary is passionate about integrating AI tools to boost productivity and create meaningful work. She finds joy in helping others discover their purpose, traveling, and spending quality time with family and close friends. Through every chapter of her journey, Mary continues to make a lasting impact—blending strategy, spirit, and service to uplift communities and transform lives.
