The Maynard Institute is proud to announce the hiring of Nadia Campbell-Mitchell as our new Director of Development. As Director of Development, Nadia will be a strategic partner to Co-Executive Directors Evelyn Hsu and Martin G. Reynolds.
With a focus on expanding relationships with existing donors and identifying new philanthropic partners, her expertise in fundraising and nonprofit management is invaluable to the institute.
“This is a major milestone for the Institute,” said Reynolds. “It reflects the remarkable growth our team has achieved, especially since 2018, when we launched Maynard 200.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Nadia, who founded her own nonprofit at just 11 years old. Even then, she was focused on helping others and solving real problems. We’re lucky to have her, and we look forward to supporting her—as we work together to expand the Institute’s reach and strengthen journalism that truly reflects all of us.”
Nadia Campbell-Mitchell is a respected nonprofit leader, fundraiser, advocate, and founder whose commitment to service began at the age of eleven. Known among peers and community leaders for her integrity, leadership, and results-driven approach, she brings decades of experience building relationships, driving growth, and amplifying mission-driven work.
Inspired to action in the nonprofit sphere at a young age, Campbell-Mitchell’s strong desire to foster community, her investment in social justice, and her connection-building interpersonal interactions make her a natural fit for our organization and its many alumni and partners. She started her first nonprofit at only 11 years old, when after hearing about incidences of elder abuse and neglect in New York nursing homes, she started Victorian Hands, and connected youth volunteers to care homes and elderly patients.
With a strong foundation in both nonprofit development and sales, she combines strategic thinking with a natural ability to connect with diverse audiences.
Throughout her career, Campbell-Mitchell has led successful fundraising initiatives, supported organizational growth, and expanded access to resources for underserved communities. As a nonprofit founder, she brings a deep understanding of what it takes to build sustainable, community-centered programs from the ground up.
Her contributions have earned her numerous awards and honors, recognizing her leadership as well as her ability to inspire others to give generously and act with purpose.
An active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), she proudly served for several years on the board of AFP Long Island (AFPLI), where she mentored emerging fundraisers and contributed to strengthening standards across the field.
Whether working behind the scenes or engaging directly with donors, foundations, board members, or community partners, Nadia is known for her collaborative spirit, thoughtful communication, and unwavering dedication to creating lasting, positive changes in the communities she serves.
“I am honored to step into the inaugural role of Director of Development at the Maynard Institute,” Campbell-Mitchell said. “Being part of the legacy of Robert C. Maynard and the visionary founders who built this organization is deeply meaningful to me. The Institute has long been a trusted source of support for journalists of color and a champion for equity in media. I’m excited to help grow its impact and carry this mission forward with care, purpose, and gratitude.”
We look forward to Nadia Campbell-Mitchell’s contributions to the growth of the institute and the continued stewardship of its mission to diversify journalism and news.
Please join us in welcoming Nadia Campbell-Mitchell to the Maynard Family!
Changing Staff Roles
In addition to welcoming Nadia Campbell-Mitchell to the Maynard Family we would like to formally announce the evolution of other roles within the Maynard team.
Felecia D. Henderson, who was executive-in-residence for the Maynard 200 fellowship in 2024 and the institute’s Director of Cultural Competency, is now Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives.
Odette Alcazaren-Keeley, once the director of the Maynard 200 program, is now Director of the Maynard Communities of Practice and the Maynard Regional Training Series.
Alida Birnam is now our Operations Manager.
Amani Hamed is our Community Engagement Manager and Staff Correspondent.