Such was the case for one Great Depression heroine, born 140 years ago today, whose life's work is still benefiting millions of jobless Americans during the coronavirus pandemic. Meet Frances Perkins: the first female member of a presidential cabinet, and the chief architect behind many New Deal programs that live on 85 years later. "There's a whole lot of people whose financial salvation is going to come because Frances Perkins existed." Suzi Levine is trying to channel Frances Perkins lately. Sarah Peskin, board chair at the Frances Perkins Center, points to one poignant quote that feels just as relevant now as it was 85 years ago.