With more than two decades of experience in LGBTQ+ nonprofit leadership, the new CEO is ready to lead the nonprofit into a stronger, more sustainable future.
New York, NY – Family Equality, the national nonprofit dedicated to advancing equality for LGBTQ+ families, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Darra Gordon (she/her) as its new Chief Executive Officer. Bringing more than two decades of experience in LGBTQ+ nonprofit leadership, Gordon is poised to guide the organization through a groundbreaking era of growth, resilience, and impact.
“Stepping in to lead Family Equality wasn’t a choice for me. It’s a calling,” said Gordon. “I’ve dedicated my career to protecting and preserving our community’s right to be celebrated, respected, and connected. Together with our dedicated team, families, and allies, I am excited and eager to continue this work on behalf of LGBTQ+ families around the country. As a parent myself, I know firsthand that family is a powerful force for good and a right that is fundamental to who we are as humans. By building Family Equality’s impact and becoming stronger and more sustainable, I know we can build a world where everyone can experience the unconditional love, safety, and belonging that only family can provide.”
With a career grounded in social justice, Gordon has dedicated her life’s work to creating meaningful change and evolution for LGBTQ+ communities. Her leadership style is rooted in collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to equity and inclusion. Throughout her career, she has cultivated a culture of sustainability and accountability, growing and transforming organizations into effective, unstoppable forces of change. Under Gordon’s leadership, organizations have witnessed periods of rapid growth, with her last two organizations more than tripling their annual operating budget and fundraising goals.
Gordon, who most recently served as Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer at GLAAD, joins Family Equality at a moment of both opportunity and urgency. LGBTQ+ families continue to face legislative and social challenges across the country. Under her leadership, Family Equality is committed to addressing these challenges head-on, while expanding its reach and resources to better serve families and advance equality.
As the organization moves to the next chapter, the Family Equality team extends deep gratitude to outgoing Interim CEO, Alexis Kantor, for her dedication and leadership during this transition. Kantor played a crucial role in strengthening our organization, implementing key initiatives and streamlined processes, and ensuring a smooth path forward for our continued success.
“I’m grateful Alexis was able to step into the Interim CEO role from her former Board Co-Chair responsibilities,” said Scott Gatz (he/him), Chair of Family Equality’s Board of Directors. “Knowing Family Equality as well as she does allowed us to continue our important work advancing equality for LGBTQ+ families without skipping a beat. Her contributions will have a lasting impact, and we thank her for her tireless work on behalf of LGBTQ+ families. I look forward to having Alexis rejoin me as Co-Chair of our Board of Directors.”
Gordon assumes her role as CEO with a vision to deepen Family Equality’s impact, ensuring the organization is not only meeting the immediate needs of LGBTQ+ families but also laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable future. She will focus on strengthening partnerships, enhancing organizational sustainability, and amplifying the voices of LGBTQ+ families nationwide.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have Darra at the helm,” said Gatz. “Her experience in transformational leadership and her unwavering dedication to social justice make her uniquely qualified to lead Family Equality into its next chapter. She has a clear vision for the future, and we are confident that she will guide the organization to new heights while also tackling the challenges ahead.”
“This is a vulnerable time for our community and for Family Equality,” Gordon emphasized. “But it is also a time of incredible possibility. Family is a great uniter. Together, we will rise to meet the challenges ahead, ensuring that the organization remains strong, steadfast, and impactful for generations to come.
“I’m ready to get to work.”
Gordon begins her role as Family Equality’s CEO on Monday, March 3.
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About Darra Gordon
Join Family Equality LIVE on Monday, March 3 at 3pm ET/12pm PT to meet our new CEO, Darra Gordon! Darra comes to Family Equality with decades of experience in the LGBTQ+ movement — and she’s ready to share her vision with the Family Equality family! Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media for more details — then, tune into our Facebook and Youtube for a special Q&A and the chance to get to know our new leader.
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About Family Equality
Family Equality is creating a world where everyone can experience the love, safety, and belonging of family. As the leading national organization for current and future LGBTQ+ families, we work to ensure that everyone has the freedom to find, form, and sustain their families by advancing LGBTQ+ equality through advocacy, support, storytelling, and education.
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Press Contact
Tonya Agnew,
Vice President,
Communications & Marketing
(765) 490-4709 / tagnew@familyequality.org