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

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

Current Board Members

Alyssa Olivera

Board Chair
(they/them/theirs)

Anthony Valdez

Board Member
(he/him/his)

Anne- Marie Hodge

Board Member
(she/her/hers)

Cindy Smith

Board Member
(she/her/hers)

Dylan Chennault

​Board Member
(he/him/his)

Officers

Jan Dunlap
Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer
(she/her/hers)
[email protected]

Join The Board of Directors

Who Should Apply

We are in search of board members who not only embody dedication, leadership, and innovation but also bring a wealth of professional experience vital for the growth and sustainability of The Center. Ideal candidates will have a proven track record in growing and scaling businesses, operational management, developing strategic partnerships, and executing successful fundraising campaigns. Additionally, we value expertise in financial management, marketing, community outreach, and advocacy as these skills are critical for navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Our aim is to assemble a team of board members who are deeply committed to our mission and possess a diverse set of skills, including those who have shown their support by engaging with The Center through participation, volunteering, or donations, ensuring our organization thrives and remains a pivotal resource for the community.

Board Member Qualifications 

Individuals who are 21 years of age or older are eligible to serve on the Board of Directors. The Board may outline additional qualifications for membership to ensure alignment with our organization's needs and goals. It also retains the authority to appoint Directors, Officers, and Agents through a simple majority vote, allowing for flexibility and responsiveness in governance and leadership appointments.

Term Commitment

​Board members serve a two-year term commencing in January, with the opportunity to be re-elected for one additional consecutive term, allowing for a maximum of four years of continuous service.

Annual Financial Commitment

Each year, Board Members pledge to fulfill a financial commitment of $1,500 to support the Center's mission. This commitment can be met through various means, including:

• Fundraising 
• Employer-sponsored donation
• Making a personal donation

​Leading the organization and execution of Center programs or events with measurable results
These avenues offer Board Members flexibility in how they contribute to our sustained growth and impact.

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Board Member Duties 

In addition to duties set forth by the law, the Board of Directors plays a crucial role in steering the organization towards its mission and vision. Their responsibilities include:

• Ensure organization alignment to Mission, Vision and Values
• Conducting both short and long-term strategic planning to ensure effective organizational growth.
• ​Actively recruit new Board Directors to ensure the Board remains dynamic and effective.
• Regularly evaluate the Board's performance to foster continuous improvement.
• Manage financial resources responsibly, including any investments, to support the organization's mission.
• Establish fundraising goals and strategies, while actively leading fundraising activities.
• Identify new funding sources including (corporate sponsorships, donations, grants) to support the longterm financial sustainability of the organization.
• Boosting the organization's public image and reputation.
• Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements to maintain the organization's integrity.
• Fulfilling various duties as needed, including participation in task forces or committees, to contribute to the organization's success.
• If applicable, recruiting, supporting, and evaluating the performance of the Executive Director.

Interested In Applying?

Board Terms Begin Every January 

New board terms at The Center commence every January. We welcome applications for board membership year-round, targeting the upcoming term. Should there be vacant seats, we may appoint new members at any point during the year.​

Submit Your Application

If 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.

Apply Today

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.