The board of governors of the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies in Northwest announced that Dedrick Asante-Muhammad will be the think tank’s next president and will start his new position on March 11.
Asante-Muhammad is replacing Spencer Overton, who served as president for 10 years before stepping down in June of last year. Jessica Fulton, vice president of Policy, served as interim president. She will remain in this position until March 11 and then will resume her general responsibilities as vice president.
“With two decades dedicated to unraveling and combating racial and economic inequities, Dedrick’s renowned expertise in racial wealth divide analysis will undoubtedly propel our mission forward with insight and impact,” said Paul N.D. Thornell, chair of the board of governors and presidential search committee chair.
Thornell emphasized his confidence in Asante-Muhammad’s ability to advance the work of the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies.
“Dedrick, who was recently named by Time as one of the 18 Black leaders working to end the racial wealth gap will guide our vision, ensuring it remains steadfastly aligned with the needs of Black communities,” Thornell continued. “The board has full confidence in Dedrick’s ability and vision, and we are excited about the next chapter of the Joint Center under his leadership.”
Asante-Muhammad said, “my upcoming position at the Joint Center is the capstone of my career.”
“The Joint Center was the principal organization to strengthen and advance elected African American officials during the last decades of the 20th century,” he said. “In this 21st century, the problem of the color line is still at the center of inequality and division in the United States, and it is my goal to position the Joint Center to lead the nation beyond its historical divisions and injustice.”
