Lakesha McDay

President

Lakesha McDay is a respected equity-centered leader with over 25 years of experience driving systems change through collaboration and partnerships with community members, government officials, education leaders, grassroots organizations, philanthropy partners, and executive leaders. Most recently, she served as Executive Vice President of Programs and Operations at New Hanover Community Endowment, leading initiatives to foster equity and strategic community impact. She has also held key roles, including Executive Director of Governmental and Community Relations at UNC Asheville and Equity Officer at Dogwood Health Trust, and spent over 20 years advancing health outcomes with Mission Health in western North Carolina. Lakesha holds a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, a certificate in Innovation Management, and certification as a National Diversity Professional, complementing her extensive experience in equitable practices and leadership development.