Hi Friend, With deep appreciation, we announce that John Simpkins will be stepping down as President and CEO of MDC in June 2025. Over the past five years, John has led our organization with unwavering dedication, guiding our mission to advance equity and economic mobility across the South. As he embarks on new opportunities, we celebrate the strong foundation he leaves for MDC’s continued growth. John’s leadership at MDC has been defined by his deep connection to the South, his home, and his desire to help create a more equitable future for the region. Before joining MDC, he served as Vice President of the Aspen Institute’s Global Leadership Network, where he facilitated collaborative efforts to address complex societal challenges. At MDC, John’s background as a scholar, attorney, and leader allowed us to navigate significant social and economic shifts with focus and determination. Reflecting on his time at MDC, John said, “The work we’ve done together to promote equity and economic security is more critical than ever. I look forward to watching MDC expand its impact, leading the South toward a future of shared prosperity. I am confident the organization will continue to help Southerners thrive– building lives of meaning, dignity, and community.” MDC Board Chair Kweku Forstall expressed gratitude for John’s contributions, saying, “John’s tenure has been truly transformative for MDC and the communities we serve. His ability to confront the region’s past while casting a bold vision for its future has greatly strengthened our work.” As we look to the future, we remain steadfast to the mission John championed. We are grateful for his legacy and excited about the opportunities ahead for MDC and the South. The search for a new President and CEO is underway, and we are committed to finding a leader who shares John’s passion and dedication to driving systemic change across the South. Your friends at MDC | 
