GLSEN Founder
Stepping Down

The founding executive director for one of the nation's leading LGBT organizations is stepping down as of August 2008. Kevin Jennings will leave the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network after 13 years with the group, according to a press release.

"While I won't be involved in the organization's day-to-day operations come August 1, I can't imagine a time when I won't be involved with this amazing organization," he said in the statement. "I'm looking forward to watching GLSEN grow and thrive in the years to come."

Jennings helped found GLSEN in 1994. Since then it has grown from a volunteer-based group to a national organization with a multimillion-dollar budget, two regional offices, and a staff of 40. GLSEN advocates for safer K-12 schools for all children, regardless of sexual orientation or gender expression.

As part of his pioneering work, Jennings helped to establish the first gay-straight alliance at the Concord Academy in 1988; there are now more than 3,700 GSAs registered with GLSEN.

The organization will now begin a national search for a new executive director. (The Advocate)