Dr. Jacqueline “Bouvier” Copeland, a trailblazer in global philanthropy and founder of Black Philanthropy Month (BPM), is stepping down from her leadership role after over a decade of transformative work. Established in 2011, BPM is an international initiative that celebrates and advances Black giving while addressing systemic funding inequities. Engaging more than 100 million participants across 60 countries, BPM has cemented itself as a global platform for change, surpassing Black History Month in international observance.
Dr. Copeland founded BPM as a heartfelt response to the underrepresentation of Black communities in global philanthropy. She envisioned a movement that would celebrate Black generosity while tackling the systemic barriers that prevent Black-led nonprofits from accessing equitable funding. Black Americans contribute an estimated $23 billion annually to charitable causes, yet Black-led organizations receive just 1-2% of U.S. philanthropic funding. Through BPM, Dr. Copeland worked to bridge this gap and elevate Black giving as a core element of Black identity.
Reflecting on her tenure, Dr. Copeland expressed gratitude to the global leaders and funders who helped realize her vision. “BPM has been an affair of the heart,” she said. “Our collective effort has exceeded my wildest imagination, with 100 million people engaged and more countries celebrating it worldwide than Black History Month.”
Dr. Copeland’s departure marks a pivotal moment for BPM as leadership transitions to Floyd Jones, founder of the BackBlack Movement. A New York-based community builder and advocate, Jones has mobilized over $40 million for grassroots initiatives and raised visibility for Black-led nonprofits through his innovative fundraising platforms. He brings a dynamic approach to advancing BPM’s mission, blending strategic engagement with a focus on collective impact.
Jones will work alongside BPM’s Global Leadership Council, which includes prominent figures like Toya Nash Randall, founder of Voice.Vision.Values., and leader of BPM’s Reunity: Black Women Give Back Award initiative. Together, they aim to build on BPM’s success, further expanding its global reach and influence.
Dr. Copeland’s legacy extends beyond BPM. As CEO of the Women Invested to Save Earth (WISE) Fund, she continues to champion equity-driven initiatives. Her forthcoming projects include AGAPE, a global Black Diaspora giving network launching in 2025, and Soul Fusion, a music collective promoting Afro-descendant heritage through performance and education.
Floyd Jones is poised to lead BPM into a new era, honoring Dr. Copeland’s groundbreaking work while addressing modern challenges. “It is an incredible honor to build on the extraordinary foundation Dr. Copeland has created,” Jones said. “Together, we will continue to grow the BPM movement, inspiring collective giving and investment in Black communities worldwide.”
With a strengthened leadership team and a renewed vision, Black Philanthropy Month is set to further its mission of advancing equity and promoting sustainable support for Black communities globally. This transition celebrates Dr. Copeland’s enduring impact while paving the way for a new generation of leaders to carry the torch forward.
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