The 1954 Project Luminary Application is Launching!
About the Role
This is an exciting time to join The CAFE Group’s 1954 Project. Launched in 2021, we’ve built significant momentum and are now charting the course for our next chapter. We’re looking for a Program Director who can balance strategic thinking with a tactical focus to ensure our programming and philanthropy reflect the values we hold dear.
This role is about operationalizing our vision, from selecting and supporting Luminaries to designing equitable and effective systems. Your work will help strengthen leadership development, streamline processes, and support sustainable growth for The 1954 Project and its network of leaders.
About Us
The CAFE Group is a trailblazing organization committed to advancing educational equity and redefining philanthropy. Under the visionary leadership of CEO and founder Liz Thompson, we embrace a love-centered approach that invests in visionary leaders and cultivates next-generation talent to drive systemic change. Our belief is simple: when Black communities thrive, everyone benefits—and we’re dedicated to making that happen.
Our 1954 Project initiative invests in visionary leaders and organizations that expand educational opportunities and improve outcomes for Black students and communities. With $1 million in unrestricted funding for 1954 Project Luminaries, leadership development, increased visibility, and a trusted network, we support leaders in scaling solutions to address systemic inequities and deliver lasting change. Since 2021, we’ve invested nearly $16 million in 27 leaders and organizations that advance culturally responsive education, teacher diversity, and economic mobility.