MDC

MDC February 2026 Newsletter

3 min read · Newsletter · February 2026

MDC’s 2025 Impact Report Is Here

In a year marked by political upheaval, widening inequities, and profound uncertainty, MDC remained grounded in a clear purpose: to stand in the gap between policy and people and to help build systems that deliver meaning, dignity, and community.

Our 2025 Impact Report captures how MDC worked alongside partners across the South to strengthen capacity, foster collaboration, and build influence for lasting systems change. From advancing economic security and educational equity to elevating rural voices and reshaping philanthropic practice, the report reflects a year of determined, values-driven action.

Inside the report, you’ll find:

  • A message from MDC President & CEO Lakeisha Hood Moise reflecting on leadership, transition, and shared responsibility
  • Highlights across MDC’s four focus areas: Economic Security & Mobility; Educational Equity; Equity-Centered Leadership & Philanthropy; and Rural Prosperity & Investment
  • Stories of partnership, policy impact, and community-led change from across the Southern region
  • Financials and acknowledgments honoring the supporters who make this work possible

This report is both a reflection of what we accomplished together, and a reminder of why this work matters now more than ever.

Read the full 2025 Impact Report at the button below.

MDC’s New Development Director

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Joscelyne M. Brazile as MDC’s new Development Director!

Dr. Brazile brings a powerful track record of advancing equity, opportunity, and economic mobility through strategic philanthropic and institutional partnerships.

Prior to joining MDC, Dr. Brazile proudly served her alma mater, North Carolina A&T State University, where she led high-performing fundraising teams and architected transformational partnerships rooted in relationship-driven philanthropy.

Celebrating Calvin Allen: Mosaic Changemaker

We’re celebrating one of our own!

MDC’s Vice President of Partnerships and Programs, Calvin Allen, has been named one of 24 leaders in the 2026 Mosaic Changemakers Cohort—a powerful network of organizers, bridge-builders, and visionaries working for justice, equity, and opportunity across the South.

Mosaic Changemakers are leaders of color who are weaving a better South by strengthening communities, building power, and advancing systems change. Rooted in people, place, and possibility, Mosaic supports changemakers through leadership development, connection, and collective action.

Please join us in congratulating Calvin and the full 2026 Mosaic Changemakers cohort!

MDC Is Hiring!

MDC is currently recruiting for two opportunities for emerging and early-career professionals who are passionate about equity, systems change, and the South.

Dan Broun Program Associate (2026)

A year-long, structured learning experience for advanced undergraduate or graduate-level students interested in rural community development, capacity-building, and policy change.

George B. Autry Fellowship for Southern Policy & Research (2026–2028)

A two-year fellowship for early-career professionals focused on equity-centered research, policy analysis, systems change, and strategic communications.

View open positions and apply at mdcinc.org/careers

Register for State of the South, Jacksonville, Florida!

Join us for State of the South: Jacksonville, a three-day event to bring together Southerners around art, policy, data, & shared community.

Climate and development pressures are exacerbating economic and social challenges for Southern communities. In this convening, we will explore and highlight strategies for preventing land and housing loss, disaster recovery, wealth-building, and celebrating the cultural ties and traditions that ground us.

Attendees can expect sessions focused on Southern history and data exploration, disaster recovery, community organizing, and storytelling. We will celebrate local artists and share visions for a healthy, thriving South. For more information on the Agenda, Speakers, and Venue Details visit the registration page at the button below.

Your investment drives MDC’s work.

By investing in MDC, you make it possible for us to advance knowledge about what works to create and scale transformative solutions in education, employment, access to healthcare, and sustainable community development.

Shaping a South where all people thrive

307 W Main St | Durham, North Carolina 27701 | 919-381-5802 | info@mdcinc.org

www.mdcinc.org

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