Melanie Bridgeforth to Step Down as CEO of Women’s Foundation of Alabama in 2024

Photo of author
Written By Richard Perdomo

Melanie Bridgeforth, CEO of the Women’s Foundation of Alabama, will step down early next year after six years of transformative leadership. During her tenure, Bridgeforth expanded the foundation’s reach from a local Birmingham organization to a statewide leader in advocating for women’s issues.

Her efforts helped drive critical legislative victories, such as the 2024 Alabama Child Care Tax Credit Bill and the state’s equal pay statute. Bridgeforth utilized her background in lobbying to align the foundation’s philanthropic work with public policy initiatives, securing six pro-women legislative wins and three defensive victories for women’s rights.

Under her leadership, the foundation’s grantmaking grew to over a million dollars annually, benefiting nonprofits across 40 Alabama counties.

Fundraising efforts, such as the Unleashed event featuring high-profile figures like Regina King and Barbara P. Bush, also contributed to the foundation’s success.

Bridgeforth now looks forward to launching her own consulting firm, where she aims to continue her work advocating for women and families on a broader scale.

As the Women’s Foundation of Alabama begins a national search for its next leader, Bridgeforth will stay on until February to ensure a smooth transition.

 

Leave a Comment