Everyone deserves a voice in the decisions that affect their lives. At Stonewall Columbus, listening carefully and welcoming different perspectives help ensure our work responds to the needs of the people we serve. Together, we can turn shared concerns into action and help more people find connection and belonging.
Last month’s Come Out for Stonewall: A Brighter Tomorrow event reflected our shared commitment to supporting one another and helping LGBTQ+ people across Central Ohio thrive. Thank you to the donors, volunteers, community partners, staff, and community members who made our annual fundraiser a success. Your generosity made it possible to celebrate our community, honor our progress, and invest in the work ahead.
Supporting our community also means participating in civic life. Election Day reminds us that voting is essential to protecting our rights and freedoms and advancing equality. Our involvement continues after the ballots are counted, through staying informed and engaging with elected officials. Leadership is a responsibility we all share; every time we vote, volunteer, or advocate for a neighbor, we help shape the kind of community we want to call home.
Veterans Day also gives us an opportunity to thank veterans and their families, including those in our LGBTQ+ community, for their service and sacrifice. Honoring their contributions means listening to their experiences and helping ensure they find respect, support, and belonging within our community.
That same commitment to service will guide us into Stonewall’s next chapter. I am deeply grateful to our outgoing board officers for their dedication to Stonewall Columbus: President K Terry-Smith, Vice President Dr. Terrence Brooks, Treasurer JZ Knox-Zhang, and Community Engagement Liaison Ronald Murray. Their leadership has helped strengthen Stonewall and prepare the organization for the years ahead.
Beginning in January 2027, the board will welcome new officers, with Allison Harrison serving as President, Scott Ammarell as Treasurer, Kris Jackson as Secretary, and Tyson Crenshaw as Community Engagement Liaison. I am honored to continue serving Stonewall as I transition from Secretary to Vice President. I have great confidence in this incoming leadership team and look forward to working alongside them.
As we look toward the coming year, I invite you to stay involved by volunteering, participating in a program, or sharing your ideas. Thank you for the trust you place in Stonewall Columbus and for the ways you continue to support our community.
With gratitude,
Marshall Troxell
Secretary and incoming Vice President
Stonewall Columbus Board of Trustees
