JANS – The Women’s Foundation of Mississippi has named Melanie Powell, a native of Crystal Springs, Mississippi, as its new Executive Director. Powell is  the third executive director in the Foundation’s 25-year history. Upon assuming the role on March 1, she is leading the Foundation’s programming, advocacy, fundraising, and grant allocation initiatives to improve economic security for Mississippi’s women and girls. 

“I’m honored to expand the philanthropic efforts of the Women’s Foundation by involving stakeholders and donors in helping women become catalysts for their economic security,” said Powell. “Our organization will continue to provide education and information that will help implement policies that spark significant change.”

Powell is also working closely with the Foundation’s board members to foster new opportunities for organizational development, capacity building, and community engagement.

Powell’s experience in nonprofit management spans over 25 years, most recently serving as the Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Washington County in Greenville, MS.  She’s also served as a member of the Board of Directors for Families USA, a national non-partisan voice for health care consumers, and Teen Health Mississippi. 

In addition to her work in the nonprofit space, Powell has used her training as a licensed social worker for the State of Ohio to advance community support. Her work as the Sociology instructor at Bryant and Stratton College and as the center coordinator for the Council for Economic Opportunities in Greater Cleveland helped young people successfully transition out of rehabilitation programs and expanded local mental health resources and education in the area through several community initiatives. 

“I am thankful for the chance to be a part of the Women’s Foundation of Mississippi,” Powell said, “and excited to contribute to the effort to enhance the lives of women and girls across the state!”