board of directors
About The Board
The Board of Directors serves as the governing body of The Center for Sexuality and Gender Diversity, with members upholding a fiduciary responsibility as outlined in our bylaws. Comprising five to nine Directors, the Board oversees the organization's strategic direction and governance
Our Commitment To Diversity
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The Board of Directors of The Center for Sexuality and Gender Diversity is deeply committed to embodying the rich diversity of the community we serve. This commitment guides our efforts in assembling a board that not only brings a wealth of expertise and experience but also reflects the varied identities, perspectives, and experiences within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and its allies. To this end, we actively seek qualified individuals who represent this diversity in terms of race, gender, sexuality, age, and cultural background. Our aim is to create a board that is not only effective in governance and strategic oversight but also exemplifies inclusivity and representation, ensuring that our decisions and strategies are informed by the broad spectrum of voices and needs within the community |
The Center's Board of Directors
2026 Board of Directors
Chris Tovar |
Ace Moody |
brian phillips |
Daniel Avina |
Jari Nunez |
kyle norman |
Marc Casica |
travis hauert |
Officers
Join OUR Board of Directors
We’re looking for passionate, community-minded people who are excited about helping The Center grow, strengthen its impact, and continue being a vital resource for 2SLGBTQIA+ people throughout Kern County.
Our Board of Directors brings together people with different experiences, perspectives, talents, and connections. You might bring experience in business, finance, fundraising, marketing, community engagement, advocacy, strategic partnerships, or nonprofit leadership—or you may bring a perspective and set of life experiences that our Board needs at the table.
More than a resume, we value people who believe in our mission, are willing to share their ideas and connections, and want to help open new doors for The Center. Whether you’ve supported us through volunteering, attending events, donating, partnering with us, or are just discovering an opportunity to get involved, we welcome people who are ready to make a meaningful contribution.
You don’t need to be an expert in everything. Great boards are built by bringing together people with different strengths who are willing to learn from one another, think boldly, and work together toward a shared vision.
Our Board of Directors brings together people with different experiences, perspectives, talents, and connections. You might bring experience in business, finance, fundraising, marketing, community engagement, advocacy, strategic partnerships, or nonprofit leadership—or you may bring a perspective and set of life experiences that our Board needs at the table.
More than a resume, we value people who believe in our mission, are willing to share their ideas and connections, and want to help open new doors for The Center. Whether you’ve supported us through volunteering, attending events, donating, partnering with us, or are just discovering an opportunity to get involved, we welcome people who are ready to make a meaningful contribution.
You don’t need to be an expert in everything. Great boards are built by bringing together people with different strengths who are willing to learn from one another, think boldly, and work together toward a shared vision.
Board Member QualificationsThe Center seeks Board members who are passionate about our mission and excited to use their voice, experience, and perspective to strengthen our organization and community.
Qualified candidates should:
No individual is expected to bring every skill to the table—the strength of our Board comes from what we bring together. |
Term CommitmentBoard members serve a two-year term beginning in January and may be re-elected for one additional consecutive term, for a maximum of four years of continuous service.
This structure provides continuity in Board leadership while creating opportunities for new perspectives, ideas, and community voices to join The Center’s leadership. |
Annual Financial Commitment ( GIVE / GET )
Each Board member makes an annual $1,500 Give/Get commitment in support of The Center’s mission, programs, and continued growth. This commitment is designed to offer flexibility and can be fulfilled through a combination of:
- Personal Giving: Making a tax-deductible personal contribution.
- Fundraising: Inspiring donations through personal or professional networks, campaigns, or fundraising activities.
- Employer Support: Securing employer-sponsored gifts, matching contributions, or other corporate support.
- Event & Program Leadership: Taking a leadership role in approved programs, events, or initiatives that generate measurable financial or organizational value for The Center.
Board Member Duties
The Board of Directors provides the leadership, stewardship, and strategic direction that help The Center fulfill its mission and build a strong, sustainable future. Working collectively, Board members are responsible for:
- Mission & Strategic Direction: Safeguarding The Center’s Mission, Vision, and Values while helping establish long-term priorities and opportunities for growth.
- Organizational Stewardship: Providing responsible oversight of The Center’s financial resources, organizational health, legal obligations, and long-term sustainability.
- Resource Development: Strengthening The Center’s financial future by establishing fundraising priorities, cultivating relationships, identifying new funding opportunities, and championing philanthropic support.
- Community Leadership & Advocacy: Serving as ambassadors for The Center, strengthening our reputation, expanding community partnerships, and building relationships that advance our mission.
- Board Excellence: Building a strong and effective Board through thoughtful recruitment, ongoing development, periodic evaluation, and shared accountability.
- Executive Leadership & Oversight: Selecting, supporting, and evaluating the Executive Director and ensuring effective organizational leadership.
- Active Leadership: Contributing individual talents, expertise, and connections to strategic initiatives, committees, or special projects where Board leadership can make a meaningful difference.
Interested In Applying?
Board Terms Begin Every JanuaryBoard terms at The Center begin each January. Applications for Board membership are accepted year-round and are generally considered for the upcoming annual term. When vacancies occur, the Board may appoint qualified candidates at any time during the year to fill available seats.
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Submit Your ApplicationIf you're interested in joining the board, your first step is to complete and submit the online board application and all requested materials. The Center's executive team will review your application and call you in for an interview. Contact us if you have any questions.
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Celebrating Our Legacy: Honoring The Center's Past Board Members
As we look back on the journey and transformative work of The Center, we are deeply grateful for the dedicated individuals who have served on our board. Their collective leadership and vision have been fundamental in establishing The Center as a beacon of hope and support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Kern County. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Emily Fisher, Tony Wright, Jaime L. Ortiz, Brie Chartier, Lou Medina/Cindy Smith, Allen Belluomini, Jan Hefner, Cindy Smith, and David Trujillo for their invaluable contributions. Each of these board members has played a crucial role in advancing the well-being and rights of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, laying the groundwork for our continued mission of advocacy, support, and positive change. Their dedication inspires us to build upon their legacy, striving for a future where the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Kern County feels more included, supported, and empowered. We thank all our past board members for their service and for being an integral part of our story and success, driving us forward with hope and determination.
