TIME has named Marc Philpart, President and CEO of the Black Freedom Fund, to its 2026 list of The Closers. This annual list recognizes extraordinary leaders whose vision and leadership are driving measurable progress toward closing racial equity gaps and shaping a more just future.
Each year, The Closers spotlights a select group of Black leaders whose work across sectors, from culture and policy to community power and innovation, is transforming systems and moving us closer to justice. As President and CEO of the Black Freedom Fund, Marc is recognized for his work to build a durable philanthropic institution focused on moving long-term resources to communities. His leadership reflects a commitment to sustained investment and the kind of infrastructure needed to support organizing, advocacy, and community solutions over time.
“This recognition is a reminder that the work in front of us is bigger than any one leader or moment, it’s about building durable institutions like Black Freedom Fund,” said Marc. “Through BFF, we have an opportunity to build an institution that lasts across generations, rooted in care, shared responsibility, and the kind of justice Black communities have been fighting for for generations. I hope this moment invites more people to join us in moving resources, power, and imagination toward a future we all deserve.”
The 2026 The Closers list includes leaders across philanthropy, culture, and organizing, including New York Times best-selling author Imani Perry, philanthropist Darren Walker, and Black Mamas Matter Alliance Co-Founder and Executive Director, Angela Doyinsola Aina, underscoring both the breadth and impact of Black leadership and a shared commitment to closing racial equity gaps by changing how power and resources move.
We’re proud to see Marc and the work of the Black Freedom Fund recognized alongside leaders shaping change across the country. This recognition reflects the collective power of our movements – organizing, building, and holding the line for racial equity.
See the full 2026 list of TIME’s The Closers at time.com/closers.
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