The head of the NAACP is the chairperson of the board, who sets the board agenda and presides over meetings, distinct from the president and CEO who directs day-to-day operations. As of mid-2025, the recognized chair is Leon W. Russell, a civil rights attorney and longtime leader who succeeded Cornell Brooks in 2017. Russell oversees governance and provides strategic direction at the national level. The president and CEO, Derrick Johnson, manages staff, programs, and advocacy. Leadership transitions are formally announced by the NAACP board and reflected on the organization’s official governance pages.
Understanding NAACP Leadership Structure
The NAACP operates with a dual-leadership model that separates governance from executive management. The board chair provides oversight, ensures mission alignment, and represents the organization in high-level settings. The president and CEO handle staff, budgeting, legal strategy, and on-the-ground advocacy. Clarifying roles helps the public, media, and partners direct inquiries and recognize accountability lines.
Key Leadership Roles and Responsibilities
- Chair of the Board: Sets meeting agendas, presides at board sessions, represents the board in external relations.
- President and CEO: Leads staff, manages programs and budgets, oversees daily advocacy and litigation.
- Board Members: Provide strategic direction, approve major policies, and hold executive leadership accountable.
Who Is the Current NAACP Chair
Leon W. Russell is widely recognized as the chair of the NAACP Board as of 2025. He assumed the role in 2017 and has presided through policy deliberations on criminal justice, voting rights, and economic inclusion. Russell brings substantial experience from prior regional leadership and national civil rights coalitions.
Leon W. Russell’s Background and Tenure
Leon W. Russell is a civil rights attorney and longtime advocate known for methodical coalition building. During his tenure, he has emphasized intersectional approaches to voting rights, education equity, and community safety. He collaborates with chapters, youth councils, and advocacy partners to advance the NAACP’s legislative and public policy objectives.
Derrick Johnson: President and CEO
Derrick Johnson serves as president and CEO of the NAACP, leading the national office staff and programmatic agenda. He directs litigation strategy, oversees member mobilization, and coordinates messaging on emerging civil rights issues. Johnson reports to the board and, alongside the chair, ensures that advocacy initiatives align with the mission and long-term goals.
Organizational Reporting and Decision Authority
In practice, the chair and president jointly guide the NAACP’s public posture, but their formal authorities differ: the chair presides over board governance, while the president leads executive functions. Major decisions—such as litigation filings, legislative endorsements, and partnerships—are subject to board approval and often involve committees led or influenced by the chair.
Recent Transitions and Leadership Timeline
Understanding the NAACP’s leadership timeline clarifies continuity and shifts at the highest level. Cornell Brooks preceded Russell as chair, serving until 2017, when Russell took office. Derrick Johnson has been president and CEO since 2016. These transitions were publicly noted in board announcements and press releases, with supporting documents accessible through official NAACP channels.
Leadership Milestones at a Glance
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Derrick Johnson becomes NAACP president and CEO | Marked a new executive era focused on modern advocacy and legal strategy |
| 2017 | Leon W. Russell elected chair of the Board | Shifted governance leadership while maintaining programmatic continuity |
| 2024 | Board reaffirmed leadership roles in annual meeting | Public reaffirmation of governance structure and strategic priorities |
How to Verify Current NAACP Leadership
To confirm the head of the NAACP and related roles, consult primary sources such as the NAACP’s official website governance page, recent public filings, and verifiable board minutes. Cross-reference announcements from the national office with reputable news reporting when updates occur. Direct outreach to the NAACP communications office can clarify questions about titles, responsibilities, or recent changes.
Reliable Verification Steps
- Visit the NAACP official site’s leadership or governance section.
- Review recent press releases or board meeting summaries.
- Check public IRS filings (e.g., Form 990) for officer listings.
- Contact the NAACP office for written confirmation if needed.
Key Takeaways on NAACP Leadership
- The chair of the board (currently Leon W. Russell) is the head in governance terms.
- The president and CEO (Derrick Johnson) leads staff and day-to-day operations.
- Understanding the distinction between governance and executive roles reduces confusion.
- Verified sources such as the NAACP website and IRS filings provide definitive confirmation.
- Leadership changes are formally communicated through official announcements.