Lydia has Master Degrees in Business, Christian Education, and Public Policy from Vanderbilt University, The Interdenominational Theological Center, and Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, respectively.
Dr. Lydia Meredith is an author, ordained minister, scholar, and civic leader whose life and work reflect a deep and enduring commitment to social justice, particularly for unsheltered LGBTQ+ youth.
She is the author of The Gay Preacher’s Wife (Simon & Schuster), a nationally acclaimed memoir that explores the intersections of faith, identity, family, and spiritual transformation. She is also featured in Episode 1 of the dramatic documentary series Unlocked: Family Secrets on OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network).
Raised in poverty during the Jim Crow era, Dr. Meredith overcame systemic barriers of racism, sexism, and classism to build a distinguished career in corporate leadership before founding Beacon of Hope – A Social Enterprise.
Under her leadership, the organization raised more than $1.5 million annually, serving thousands of disproportionately at-risk children, youth, and families across Metro Atlanta’s most economically challenged communities.
Her impact has been recognized statewide, including honors such as the N. T. Randall Servant Leadership Award and the Childhood Hero Award presented by former Governor Roy Barnes and First Lady Marie Barnes.
Dr. Meredith recently earned her Ph.D. in Rhetoric and Composition from Georgia State University. Her scholarship examines how religious rhetoric shapes public attitudes toward sexual minorities and explores how rhetorical education and human engagement can mitigate discriminatory sentiment.
Education
- Ph.D., Rhetoric & Composition — Georgia State University
- M.P.P. — Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University
- M.A.C.E. — Morehouse School of Religion (Interdenominational Theological Center)
- M.M. — Vanderbilt University, Owen Graduate School of Management
- B.S. — Vanderbilt University, School of Engineering
Now retired from nonprofit leadership, Dr. Meredith devotes her time to writing, scholarship, public speaking, and teaching. She continues to serve as:
- President, DFCS Fulton County Advisory Board
- Vice President, Georgia Association of DFCS Advisory Boards, Inc.
- Member, GPHSA Legislative Advocacy Committee
A devoted mother of three sons and grandmother of seven, Dr. Meredith remains a powerful voice for justice, compassion, and the inalienable dignity and rights of all people.