In an exciting development as 2023 comes to a close, the Atlanta Pride Committee proudly announces the election of Dewayne Queen and Elizabeth Fennell to its Board of Directors. Chris McCain, the Executive Director of Atlanta Pride, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “As we close out 2023 and look forward to the new year, Atlanta Pride is thrilled to have two very accomplished community leaders joining our Board of Directors.”
McCain emphasized the importance of the new members’ community connections, diverse experiences, and dedication to the organization’s mission. He believes that these qualities will be essential as Atlanta Pride continues its advocacy for LGBTQ+ people in the region. The Board of Directors plays a crucial role in governing and advancing the organization’s mission, which focuses on promoting unity, visibility, and wellness for LGBTQ+ individuals in metro Atlanta and across the South.
Both Dewayne Queen and Elizabeth Fennell will serve two-year terms, with the possibility of renewal up to three times. Their wealth of personal and professional experience reflects their commitment to serving the broader community.
Dewayne Queen, known for his significant contributions to Atlanta Black Pride, OUT Georgia Business Alliance, In The Life Atlanta, and The Vision Community Foundation, expressed his excitement to “support inclusivity and celebrate diversity.” Queen sees this opportunity as a platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, foster a sense of community, and continue the great work Atlanta Pride has done over the years.
Elizabeth Fennell, motivated by an “urgency for equity and equality,” is driven to create safe spaces in the community. With over 25 years of experience in healthcare and nonprofit marketing, Fennell is recognized as an award-winning writer and brand communicator. She aims to address the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in the current political climate, stating, “Current policies and politics are creating unsafe spaces for our community. I want to create safe spaces in my community and continue to build upon the amazing legacy and history of Atlanta Pride.”
Dewayne Queen, currently serving as the President of EQUAL, the LGBTQ+ employee resource group at Delta Air Lines, brings visionary leadership through his eight-year tenure at the airline. He has orchestrated internal programming and Pride festivals on national and international levels.
Elizabeth Fennell, with expertise in healthcare and nonprofit marketing, is passionate about developing content strategies and delivering ROI-driven marketing campaigns. Her commitment to creating safe and validating spaces aligns with Atlanta Pride’s mission.
About the Atlanta Pride Committee:
Atlanta Pride is Georgia’s oldest nonprofit organization serving the LGBTQ+ community in metro Atlanta and across the South. The organization’s operations include the annual Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade in October, along with educational, social, and cultural programs and community reinvestment initiatives. For more information about Atlanta Pride, please visit www.atlantapride.org.