Former St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter takes national nonprofit leadership role

Former St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter has been named CEO of FUSE, a national nonprofit that works with local governments to develop solutions to complex challenges. Carter began his new role Sept. 15.

Former St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter has been named CEO of FUSE, a national nonprofit that works with local governments to develop and implement solutions to challenges including affordable housing, public safety, economic opportunity and climate resilience.

“Local communities are a powerful engine of innovation and progress,” Carter said. “I’m excited to join FUSE and continue helping civic leaders execute, innovate, and work together to lead our country forward.”

Carter served as St. Paul’s mayor from 2018 through 2025. During his tenure, he launched universal college savings accounts for children born in the city, secured a 20-year infrastructure investment and oversaw major investments in housing. His administration also pursued a community-based public safety strategy that the city said helped reduce gun violence by 70%.

At FUSE, Carter will build on the organization’s executive fellowship program, which places experienced leaders within local government agencies to help tackle difficult problems and develop solutions that can be replicated elsewhere.

“Local communities are a powerful engine of innovation and progress,” Carter said, emphasizing the role cities can play in driving broader change.

Carter was selected after a national search that drew more than 1,100 applicants. He succeeds James Weinberg, who served as FUSE’s CEO since 2014.