Meet Appalachian OUTreach's lgbtq+ Board of Directors:

Shannon is an Appalachian OUTreach Board of Directors officer and serves as President. 

She won awards for her work as an advocate and activist. 

 Shannon has been an advocate and activist for LGBTQ+ rights and justice since the 1990's. She is committed to conducting business and maintaining partnerships with LGBTQ+ owned and operated businesses. 

Gibran is an Appalachian OUTreach Board of Directors officer and serves as Vice President. Professionally, he has a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal justice, is a retired police officer, and served in the Army. His career experience included Special Victims Unit, Narcotics, Human Trafficking, and K9 unit. Gibran's activism and advocacy has been geared towards child welfare, women’s issues, and LGBTQ rights. Gibran is currently retired and volunteers as a child advocate in abuse and neglect cases.

Rhonda is an Appalachian OUTreach Board of Directors officer and serves as Secretary and Administrative Coordinator. Personally, she is a strong ally for the LGBTQ+ community. Rhonda has a great deal of motivation to for helping others in the areas of human equality, LGBTQ+ issues, veterans, and homelessness.  Rhonda was born on a military base in Colorado, but considers Blount County her home. In her spare time, Rhonda is a domestic goddess extraordinaire who loves all things Betty Boop and she is a proud grandmother.

  Kes is an Appalachian OUTreach Board of Directors officer and Volunteer Coordinator.  Personally she is a wildlife rehab volunteer and has been working as Volunteer coordinator and public educator for wildlife rescue and rehab for the past 8 years. As a member of the LGBTQ + community, she is committed to advocacy and activism within the community, especially for LGBTQ+ disabled community. She has extensive experience working with physically and developmentally disabled children and adults in a medical and home setting and has a passion for ensuring they have a chance to engage with their community and find support. 

Elizabeth (Elz) is an Appalachian OUTreach Board of Directors member and Operations and Community Engagement officer  and assists in the day-to-day operations of Appalachian OUTreach. If you have visited our booth at any local event, chances are you have met Elz. Professionally, Elizabeth has a long history of Marketing, Leadership, and Training experience. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, she is dedicated to advocating for the inclusivity and visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies. 

Board Member Position filled 

Board Member Position filled