The Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce Announces the Resignation of CEO, Lisa Howe

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Focus Mid-South

Ray Rico, a Latinx advocate, owns a digital marketing agency and publishes Focus LGBT magazine, amplifying LGBTQ+ voices in Tennessee and the Mid-South. He champions HIV advocacy, fighting stigma and discrimination. Through his work, Ray strives for a more inclusive society.
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After six years of remarkable growth, the LGBT Chamber’s first full-time employee to step down in August

NASHVILLE, TN – May 18, 2018 – Ron Snitker, President of the Board of Directors of the Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce has announced the resignation of Lisa Howe, the organization’s CEO. Snitker wrote to LGBT Chamber members saying, “We are disappointed to see Lisa go after helping lead the LGBT Chamber during a transformative time for Nashville, the LGBT Chamber and the LGBT community. The Board and I wish Lisa well as she returns to her hometown of Dallas, Texas, where her wife, Wendy, has accepted a position at the Episcopal School of Dallas.”

The LGBT Chamber has achieved some of its most significant accomplishments under Ms. Howe’s leadership:

  • More than 300 members, an average increase of 34%, year over year, since 2012
  • Three national awards from the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce
  • Partnerships with other Nashville-area chambers, business organizations, and economic development players
  • The establishment of a charitable foundation
  • The awarding of the Chamber’s first scholarship to an LGBT business owner to participate in ScaleNashville
  • Expansion of LGBT Chamber  programs and events, including TASTE, Excellence in Business Awards, Brewing up Business, and Power Lunches
  • The development of new member programs and benefits
  • Advocacy work on behalf of economic-inclusion for LGBT persons throughout Tennessee

Ms. Howe will stay in her role with the LGBT Chamber until August to continue serving the members, working with stakeholders, and helping with the transition. The Board of Directors intends to undertake a competitive job search as the Nashville economy continues to grow and the city becomes increasingly diverse.

About the LGBT Chamber

The Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce advances common business interests, economic development, and equality in the workplace for its LGBT members, businesses, and allies by providing networking, educational, and community building opportunities. www.nashvillelgbtchamber.org

Contact: Lisa Howe, CEO lisa@nashvillelgbtchamber.org (615) 507-5185