Stamps, Arkansas – Mayor Stacie Mitchell-Gweah of Stamps, Arkansas, has been named a 2025 Unum Fellow by E Pluribus Unum, a highly selective and nationally respected leadership initiative that uplifts visionary elected leaders across the American South who are advancing equity, inclusion, and community resilience in the face of deep political and social divides.
The Unum Fellows Program, launched by former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, identifies local elected officials who are breaking down systemic barriers and reimagining what leadership looks like across rural and urban communities alike.
Mayor Mitchell-Gweah, elected in 2022 as the second Black woman to lead the City of Stamps, was selected for her bold, community-driven approach to transforming a rural town long impacted by economic decline, industry loss, and civic division. Her leadership philosophy blends transparency, innovation, cultural pride, and a deep belief in the potential of overlooked rural places.
“As Dr. Maya Angelou once said, ‘You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them,’” said Mitchell-Gweah. “Stamps has endured decades of disinvestment and division—but we are not reduced. We are rising. This fellowship affirms that rural voices matter, that our resilience is worthy of national investment, and that small towns can lead with unity, equity, and pride.”
A native of Stamps and proud graduate of Des Moines Area Community College, Iowa State University, and Drake University, Mitchell-Gweah returned home after more than 30 years of national and international service in education and nonprofit leadership. Since taking office, she has secured over $2 million in federal and state funding for initiatives including broadband expansion, watershed infrastructure, fire safety, youth development, and a walking trail honoring Stamps’ most famous former resident—Dr. Maya Angelou.
As a 2025 Unum Fellow, Mitchell-Gweah will join a cohort of dynamic elected leaders from 13 Southern states for a year-long program of strategic coaching, leadership development, and national collaboration. Through this fellowship, she will further scale her model of rural civic innovation, forge cross-sector partnerships, and amplify Stamps’ story on a national stage.
About E Pluribus Unum
Founded by former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, E Pluribus Unum is a nonprofit organization committed to building a more just, inclusive, and equitable South. The Unum Fellows Program supports local elected leaders who are actively working to bridge divides and improve outcomes in their communities. Learn more at www.unumfund.org or follow @UnumFund.