July 13, 2023 | By Benay Hicks
We have some exciting news to share today: we are thrilled to announce the appointment of three incredible new members to the Book Harvest Board of Directors! The addition of George Biddle, Mallory Mbalia, and Joe Waters brings us closer to realizing our vision of literacy equity for every child, from birth, in Durham and throughout the country. Biddle, Mbalia, and Waters bring a wealth of experience and expertise in humanitarian work, educational equity, early childhood development, and social sector innovation to the organization:
George Biddle joins the Board as a distinguished humanitarian and development expert with over three decades of experience in crisis response, grassroots development, and conflict mitigation. Currently serving as the chairman of World Connect, a nonprofit organization investing in self-sustaining community development projects led by local leaders, Biddle’s executive roles at the International Rescue Committee and the International Crisis Group have significantly contributed to addressing global conflicts and promoting peace. Biddle holds an AB from Harvard and an MA from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies.
Mallory Mbalia, an accomplished educator, communicator, and advocate, brings her extensive experience in early childhood education and public media to her role on the Board. As the Director of Learning and Education at Fred Rogers Productions, Mbalia plays a key role in expanding the company’s educational partnerships and collaborating with various teams. With prior experience as the Director of Education at PBS North Carolina, where she spearheaded educational initiatives benefiting educators, parents, and children of all ages, Mbalia’s expertise is highly valuable. She holds a master’s degree in School Administration from North Carolina State University, a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix, and a BA in Human Development from Howard University.
Joe Waters, with his extensive background in early childhood development, governments and philanthropic organizations, and social impact finance, brings a wealth of knowledge to the Book Harvest Board. As the co-founder and CEO of Capita, a prominent independent think tank focused on creating a just, peaceful, prosperous society, Waters is deeply committed to empowering children and families. Recognized as a 2021 Aspen Institute Ascend Fellow, Waters has published his insights on family issues in reputable outlets such as The Chronicle of Philanthropy, The Hill, and Newsweek. He graduated with a BA in History from Furman University and holds a master’s degree in Divinity from Duke University.
Ginger Young, the visionary founder and CEO of Book Harvest, expressed her enthusiasm about the new additions to the team, stating, “We are honored and delighted to welcome George Biddle, Mallory Mbalia, and Joe Waters to the Book Harvest family. Their expertise, vision, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children and families align perfectly with our mission. Together, we will continue working alongside parents to reshape the literacy landscape for every child, starting from birth.”
The addition of these three distinguished individuals reinforces the strength and dedication of Book Harvest’s Board of Directors, making it an even more formidable force in the pursuit of literacy for all. To view the complete list of Board members, please visit bookharvest.org/leadership/.