014: From Feeling Unworthy to Leading Health Equity, Maisha Simmons’ Journey through the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

How does one help to embed equity into the DNA of a major philanthropic institution like the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation? In this episode of Black Philanthropy: Our Stories, host Michelle Renee Jackson, MDiv, speaks with Maisha Simmons, Associate Vice President of Equity and Culture at RWJF. Together, they discuss how Maisha leads efforts to operationalize equity, diversity, and inclusion across RWJF’s programs and policies.

Maisha reflects on her journey from grassroots community development to national leadership, including early roles in grant writing, advocacy, and public health. She shares insights into RWJF’s reparative philanthropy work, the emotional and strategic dimensions of equity leadership, and the importance of centering community in every solution.

This episode offers valuable lessons for funders, nonprofit leaders, and equity advocates seeking to understand how institutional change happens and why it must be rooted in justice.

Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Maisha’s career path from community development to RWJF
• How her work evolved from childhood obesity prevention to reparative philanthropy
• The mission and impact of RWJF’s Equity and Culture department
• Why centering community is essential to health equity
• The role of lived experience in shaping philanthropic strategy
• Reflections on legacy, leadership, and systemic repair

Skills and insights you’ll learn:

• How to operationalize equity in large institutions
• Why reparative philanthropy goes beyond traditional grantmaking
• How to build sustainable, community-rooted strategies
• Navigating power dynamics in philanthropy
• The importance of historical context in equity work
• How to lead boldly while staying grounded in purpose

About Maisha Simmons: Maisha Simmons is Associate Vice President of Equity and Culture at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Since joining RWJF in 2008, she has led initiatives in health equity, violence prevention, family-supportive policies, and state-based strategies in New Jersey. Her work centers on embedding equity into institutional systems and advancing reparative practices in philanthropy.

Maisha has held senior roles at the NAACP and United Way and began her career in community development and public health. She is an ABFE Fellow and recipient of the 2015 Emerging Leader Award from the Association of Black Foundation Executives.

She holds an MPA from CUNY/Baruch College, a master certificate from Kean University, and a BA from Douglass College at Rutgers University.

Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maisha-simmons-ba02494/

About the Host – Michelle Renee Jackson, MDiv: Michelle Renee Jackson is an award-winning storyteller, writer-director, and host of Black Philanthropy: Our Stories. She is the Founder and Principal Artist of Simuel + Murray, a production company named after her grandmothers’ maiden names, with bases in New York and Los Angeles. Her work has helped organizations secure their largest gifts through compelling visual storytelling. She has delivered keynotes at Harvard, Yale, Hulu, and Georgetown.

Connect on LinkedIn: Michelle Renee Jackson
Instagram: @michelle.renee.jackson
Website: www.michellereneejackson.com

Podcast Pages:

Website: Black Philanthropy: Our Stories

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Produced by Simuel + Murray

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the host and guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organizations they are affiliated with or employed by. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.