Final answer:
As of September 2020, the number of black CEOs in S&P 500 companies is not provided in the available reference material, and the exact figure would require the most recent data. Historical references indicate progress yet underrepresentation in corporate leadership roles for black individuals. Current statistics would be needed for an exact count.
Step-by-step explanation:
As of September 2020, tracking the exact number of black CEOs leading Standard & Poor's 500 companies can be quite challenging due to the dynamic nature of corporate leadership positions. However, historically, black leadership in major corporations has been underrepresented. A document from Spencer Stuart in 2008 provided a statistical snapshot of S&P 500 leaders, but does not directly answer the current state of CEO demographics in 2020.
The struggle for representation and diversity within corporate America has been ongoing, as noted in literature such as "Black Women in Corporate America" by Carol Morton and the achievements of prominent figures like Cora Walker. These references from Ebony magazine and other publications highlight the progression and challenges faced by black professionals in the pursuit of leadership roles. Although certain milestones in representation have been made, such as the appointment of black individuals to executive positions, the exact count of black CEOs as of September 2020 would require access to the most current and up-to-date information from a reliable source specific to that time period.