As we come to the end of celebrating Women’s History Month, we want to take a moment to honor the remarkable life and contributions of Rosalind Magee Peychaud. Throughout her career, Peychaud has made significant impacts across various fields, always guided by her life motto “people first.” With over fifty years of professional experience, she has worked in social work, mental health, government, community organization, and affordable housing, leaving an indelible mark in each area.
Originally hailing from Monticello, Mississippi, where her father, James H. Magee, Sr., served as a Baptist church deacon and brick mason, and her mother, Marion L. Magee, worked in a garment plant, Peychaud pursued her education at Jackson State University, earning a Bachelor’s of Arts in Education Sociology, followed by a Master’s of Social Work from Tulane University.
Her journey culminated in a distinguished role as the Strategic Outreach Specialist for the State Office of Community Development/Disaster Recovery, capping off a career that included positions such as Deputy Chief of Staff to Congressman Joseph Cao and her elected two terms as State Representative for District 91 in the Louisiana State Legislature, during which she sponsored groundbreaking legislation establishing a state Housing Trust Fund. Prior to her foray into policymaking, she held roles including Section 8 Administrator for the City of Tyler, Texas, Director at Harmony House Senior Center, and Outreach Worker at Jackson Mental Health Center in Jackson, Mississippi.
Peychaud’s tenure as Executive Director for the Neighborhood Development Foundation (NDF) stands as a testament to her leadership, vision, and grace. Under her guidance, NDF spearheaded initiatives for affordable housing and wealth building, particularly benefiting low-income and working families in New Orleans. Notable achievements during her leadership included securing a home for NDF in Central City and the development of the Hoffman Triangle neighborhood.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Peychaud has been deeply committed to civic engagement, serving on numerous boards and committees, including the Tulane University Diversity Committee, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas Advisory Board, Louisiana Legislative Women’s Caucus, City Planning Commission, and Associated Neighborhood Development Board of Directors. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Even in retirement, Rosalind Magee Peychaud remains an active community advocate, leader, and organizer in uptown New Orleans alongside her husband, Joseph Peychaud. She is mother to her daughter and stepson, and her dedication to equality and her city continues to inspire.
As we commemorate Women’s History Month, let us celebrate Rosalind Magee Peychaud’s enduring legacy as she continues to always put people first.