Melanie R. Bridgeforth, widely regarded as a key leader in Alabama, will step down as President and CEO of the Women’s Foundation of Alabama WFA in 2025, as announced by the organization on Monday. Since taking the helm in 2018, Bridgeforth transformed the former Women’s Fund of Greater Birmingham into a significant philanthropic entity advocating for women’s economic empowerment statewide.
Lajuana Bradford, the Board Chair of WFA, praised Bridgeforth’s impact, stating, “For the past six years, her vision and leadership has not only inspired, but activated a broad base of thousands of philanthropists, business and civic leaders, and elected officials to build, invest, and scale proven initiatives and public policies that grow economies by removing barriers to women.”
Reflecting on her tenure, Bridgeforth expressed her commitment to expanding the WFA’s influence, stating, I came for what it could be a powerful influencer in this state. She aimed to unite various stakeholders, including corporations and community leaders, around common goals.
Looking ahead, Bridgeforth plans to launch her own national strategy consulting firm focused on building coalitions of philanthropists, businesses, and community leaders to drive change for women. She emphasized her belief in the movement’s momentum, noting that while she has acted as a catalyst, the collective effort is unstoppable.
Under her leadership, WFA experienced substantial growth, with revenue increasing by 174% and grantmaking doubling to $1 million annually across 40 Alabama counties. Bridgeforth’s advocacy efforts resulted in several legislative victories, including Alabama’s first Equal Pay Statute and significant public investments in childcare.
Quentin P. Riggins, a board member, echoed the sentiment that Bridgeforth’s leadership was essential for women’s advancement in Alabama, stating, “Alabama won’t win until our women do. In response to her departure, the Board of Directors announced plans to conduct a national search for her successor, supported by a volunteer-led Transition Committee.