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Friends,
I am writing today with news that is both exciting and bittersweet. On August 1st, I will be leaving Wake Forest to assume the role of Vice President for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at Salem Academy and College. As you might imagine, I am honored and excited to take on this role, which represents a significant advancement in my professional journey. At the same time, leaving Wake Forest, and the LGBTQ+ Center in particular, fills my heart with a heaviness that is proportional to the relationships and joy that I have formed with all of you over the past 11 years.
When I arrived at Wake in August of 2011, the LGBTQ+ Center didn’t exist beyond a collection of windowless rooms in the nether regions of Benson…and a big idea. Over the past decade we have taken that big idea and shaped it together into the fabulous glittery force that is the LGBTQ+ Center today. I could write volumes documenting the important and transformative work that we have done together. For now I will just say that it has been one of the joys of my life to found and lead the LGBTQ+ Center. I am so proud of the ways in which we have shaped the fabric of our university to make it a more equitable and inclusive place. And, I am deeply honored to have been a part of the journeys of so many amazing students and colleagues.
We will have more details to share in the coming weeks about the interim leadership plan for the LGBTQ+ Center. For now, rest assured that I am working closely with José Villalba, our Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion, to ensure that we have a seamless transition that allows us to continue to provide the education, advocacy, and support for which the Center is known. We will also reach back out soon with an opportunity to celebrate together before my departure. Finally, I want to assure you that Wake Pride: Celebrating 10 Years of the LGBTQ+ Center will still be taking place over Homecoming Weekend, and I hope to see you there! Thank you all for being such an important part of my time at Wake Forest, and for trusting me with the leadership of one of our most valuable campus resources. It has been an honor to work together to help this institution that we love live up to its motto of Pro Humanitate. Though I am continuing my own journey down the road at Salem, I look forward to new opportunities for collaboration and shared joy with all of you.
Warmly,
AJ
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