The National Newspaper Publishers Association Fund (NNPA Fund) has named Kelly P. Hodges its new Executive Director, a leadership change that comes as the organization marks its 50th anniversary and looks toward its next chapter.

Hodges steps into the role with more than two decades of experience spanning philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, communications, and higher education. Across that work, she’s built a reputation for strengthening mission-driven organizations through strategic planning, fundraising, public relations, community engagement, and initiatives designed to support student and community success.

“I am honored to serve as Executive Director of the NNPA Fund during this historic period,” said Hodges. “As we celebrate 50 years of the NNPA Fund and look ahead to the 200th anniversary of NNPA–Black Press of America, I am committed to strengthening the Fund’s role in preserving the legacy of the Black Press while advancing innovation, sustainability, and impact nationwide.”

At the NNPA Fund, Hodges will oversee the organization’s philanthropic, educational, and capacity-building efforts that support the 200-plus Black-owned newspapers affiliated with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA). Her priorities will include expanding fundraising, deepening partnerships, growing national visibility, and supporting programs aimed at both preserving the Black Press’ legacy and helping it stay strong in a rapidly changing media landscape, especially as NNPA–Black Press of America approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027.

“Kelly P. Hodges is an exceptional leader whose experience, integrity, and strategic vision make her uniquely qualified to serve as Executive Director of the NNPA Fund,” said Karen Carter Richards, Chairman of the NNPA Fund. “As we celebrate the Fund’s 50th Anniversary, Kelly’s proven track record of fundraising excellence, nonprofit leadership, and communications expertise will be instrumental in expanding our impact and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Black Press. We are confident that her leadership will elevate the NNPA Fund to new levels of growth, visibility, and effectiveness.”
Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., President and CEO of NNPA–Black Press of America, also pointed to the timing of the appointment coming during the Fund’s 50th year and ahead of the NNPA’s milestone anniversary.”The Black Press has been the conscience of America for nearly two centuries, and as we move toward the 200th anniversary of NNPA–Black Press of America in 2027, this is a defining moment for our movement,” said Dr. Chavis.

Before joining the NNPA Fund, Hodges served as Regional Director of Philanthropy for the Coast Guard Foundation, where she led fundraising strategies across the Heartland region and raised more than $2.5 million. She also held leadership roles at the YMCA of Greater Houston, where she worked on both fundraising and operational growth, including expanding youth sports participation and building community partnerships.

Her career includes work with the American Heart Association, Sisters Network® Inc., and UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, where she led communications and health equity initiatives, managed national partnerships, and supported large-scale programs. At Sisters Network® Inc., Hodges raised more than $500,000 for national programs, helped expand the organization’s constituent base from 5,000 to more than 20,000, and increased its Combined Federal Campaign results by 30 percent.

Hodges is a graduate of Grambling State University and holds a B.A. in Mass Communication and an M.S. in Athletic Administration. She has been recognized as a Top Black Health, Medical & Wellness Professional and a Top 50 Black Woman in Houston. She is also active in civic and professional service and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

More information about the NNPA Fund is available at NNPAFund.org, and inquiries can be directed to ExecutiveDirector@NNPAFund.org.

About the NNPA Fund
The National Newspaper Publishers Association Fund is the philanthropic and educational arm of NNPA–Black Press of America. Its work focuses on preserving, promoting, and strengthening the Black Press through education, training, research, and strategic partnerships.