The staff of the Religious Institute are experts at reaching out to faith communities, creating congregational resources, leading trainings, organizing actions, and conducting research. We possess an understanding of theology, denominational bodies, and the diversity of American religious expression needed to create campaigns relevant to religious communities. In addition, we bring knowledge of the most pressing sexual, gender, and reproductive justice concerns in the public arena, approaching these concerns from the lens of faith-rooted, intersectional justice.

Carol McDonald, Interim President and CEO

Carol McDonald is a social justice activist with 20 years of experience in political organizing, issue campaign management, constituency engagement, and volunteer management, all with an emphasis on communities of color. She is currently the Senior Strategist at 76 Words, a political strategy and media firm. She is also the CEO of Meridian Solutions LLC, a consulting practice specializing in organizing for social justice and racial equity. For 11 years, Carol served in numerous capacities at Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA). Carol is often asked to share her knowledge of issue advocacy, electoral campaigns and strategic planning. She has been a guest lecturer on organizing and social media at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. Carol received a B.A. in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a M.A. in teaching from Emory University.