The Center is looking for a new chief. Executive Director Micheal Vance, who has held the position since 2007, announced his resignation on April 22.
“The next big step of the organization is more programs, more staff, more space, more more more, and I’ve made the foundation to springboard to that next level,” Vance said. “It’s time for somebody to come in who has the skillset to raise some serious money and help the organization springboard.”
Vance’s contributions to the Center include adding “transgender” to its name and bringing in new programs such as the David Bohnett Cyber Center and GLBT leadership roundtable.
Jay Lovell, president of the Board of Directors, said he’s already gotten resumes for the position but they may open it up to a nationwide search.
“His legacy is obvious, he’s made a name for himself in the community and has some large shoes to fill,” said Lovell. “We’re going to have to find someone just as in touch with our community, who knows the ins and outs like he does.”
Lovell said Vance’s resignation was a surprise.
“We had just finished our strategic plan for the next two years and are putting everything in motion,” he said. “Any transition is rough, but with our growth, we’ll find someone ready to grow along with it. Plus, it’s an employer’s market.”
Vance said he struggled with the decision to resign, but he has a new job at Real Change Partners, an Orlando consulting company that assists non-profits.
“I’m very excited about the job I’m taking because I’ll be helping LGBT centers as well as non-profits across the country,” he said.
The plan for The Center is to hire an interim director for three to six months while the board does an extensive search for a new executive director. Vance’s resignation becomes official on July 7. He said all of The Center’s current programs will continue as planned.
