New Leadership to Shepherd in the Next Level of Impact for Black Children and Families

(Black PR Wire) It’s a New Day at NBCDI! In support of its 50th Anniversary’s #50Forward strategy, the National Black Child Development Institute, Inc. (NBCDI) today announced Dr. Leah Austin as its new President & CEO. After a national search, Dr. Austin will join NBCDI on August 2. Dr. Austin’s two-plus decades of experience in education, philanthropy and social justice advocacy will guide the implementation of the #50Forward initiative – NBCDI’s strategic platform created to build momentum and chart the course for the next 50 years of impact on the lives of Black children and families.

“The dynamics of life have changed drastically in one year as a result of the pandemic, and our Black communities -- especially our children -- have experienced cumulative trauma, loss of loved ones, hunger and social isolation from quarantine and virtual learning,” said Board Chairman T. Anthony Waller. “As we support our communities’ recovery, Leah is a heavy-hitter in education and policy who will lead the fight to change outdated systems that perpetuate disadvantages.”  

No stranger to NBCDI, Leah served as an intern under NBCDI’s founder Ms. Evelyn Moore, and as one of its Policy Fellows. Most recently, she worked at The Schott Foundation for Public Education, supporting education justice organizing, and has also worked at the United Way of Greater Atlanta and the Annie E. Casey Foundation, among other organizations and educational institutions. Dr. Austin’s immediate focus will be to align NBCDI’s strategic vision against the unique needs of Black families today; and to expand and deepen the organization’s influence and footprint.

“NBCDI’s mission ‘to improve and advance the quality of life for Black children and families through education and advocacy’ is as relevant today as it was in 1970 when the organization was established,” said Dr. Austin. “I’m honored and excited about this very timely opportunity to shape how this great organization serves our communities in this new day.”

During 2021, NBCDI is celebrating its 50th anniversary, which was delayed due to the pandemic. A new cohort of NBCDI Policy Fellows, revamped programs, and a stronger brand presence are key initiatives underway at the organization. To learn more about NBCDI, donate, or become an affiliate, visit www.NBCDI.org or @NBCDI on social media.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL BLACK CHILD DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE, INC.

Established in 1970, the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI) is a national nonprofit organization with a mission “to improve and advance the quality of life for Black children and families through education and advocacy.” With our National Affiliate Network, we develop and deliver strengths-based, culturally relevant, evidence-based, and trauma-informed curricula and programs focused on health and wellness, family engagement, and early literacy. We also support increased access to effective education by providing professional development scholarships to early childhood educators. NBCDI, our National Affiliate Network, and our members advocate for and inform education policies at the federal, state, and local levels to support equitable systems for Black children and families across the country.