CLEVELAND, Miss. — Delta State University announced that Mallory Burchfield, director of foundation relations, has been selected for the 2026 cohort of the Bolivar County L.E.A.D. program.
L.E.A.D. — Leadership Education Action Development — is a community leadership initiative designed to provide participants with a deeper understanding of the industries, institutions and leaders shaping Bolivar County. The program includes immersive sessions, hands-on experiences and discussions focused on economic development, government, education, health care and industry.
Burchfield was selected based on her professional leadership and community involvement, university officials said.
A graduate of Mississippi State University, Burchfield holds a bachelor’s degree and earned her MBA from Delta State. She has lived in Cleveland for nearly eight years and serves in several local leadership roles, including Main Street chair on the Chamber Board’s executive committee, vice president of RISE League, board member of the Exchange Club and board member of the Bolivar County Emergency Food and Shelter Program. She also is a past president of the Crosstie Committee, a former Bayou Pom Squad coach, Phi Mu honor adviser at Delta State and a Staff Council member and Projects Committee chair.
“Through this program, I hope to build meaningful connections with other local leaders and gain a deeper understanding of how our county operates,” Burchfield said. “I am especially excited about the opportunity for hands-on learning and the chance to broaden my perspective on the issues and opportunities shaping Bolivar County.”
Dr. Suzette Matthews, vice president for university advancement and executive director of the Delta State University Foundation, said Burchfield’s selection reflects her commitment to service and leadership.
“We are thrilled that Mallory has been selected for L.E.A.D. Bolivar,” Matthews said. “Her dedication to service and passion for community embody the spirit of this program.”
Burchfield will join other professionals from across Bolivar County in the yearlong program focused on fostering growth and collaboration in the region.
