President and CEO
The Opportunity
Founded in 1996, what is now known as the Women’s Foundation of Alabama was launched “by twenty strong women [who] invested $20,000 each… to change the lives of women in Birmingham.” Today, Women’s Foundation of Alabama (WFA) remains the state’s first and only philanthropic Foundation focused solely on the needs of women and girls.
The Foundation exclusively uses a gender lens for grantmaking, research, and advocacy. By combining data-driven research, targeted grantmaking, and policy advocacy, the Foundation has reshaped economic opportunities for countless women and families in Alabama. As a trusted leader for over two decades, WFA continues to expand its reach and effectiveness across the state.
Under the leadership of CEO Melanie R. Bridgeforth, the Foundation has grown into a philanthropic powerhouse advancing women’s economic power. As Bridgeforth prepares to conclude her tenure in early 2025, WFA’s Board of Directors has partnered with BoardWalk Consulting in the search for her successor, who will capitalize on this extraordinary momentum and lead the Foundation into its next chapter of impact.
To learn more, click the link below to view the full leadership profile.
