FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sunday, September 13, 2026
PRESS CONTACT: Clare Lefebure
press@nlgja.org or 202-588-9888
WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 13, 2026) – NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists welcomes Rick Stuckey as its new national board president and announces the election and appointment of members to its 2026-2027 board of directors.
Dana Piccoli and Dennis Valera were elected to their first terms on the board as at-large directors. Immediate Past President Ken Miguel was also elected to an at-large director position, along with Erik Hall, who completed his service as vice president of print and online after reaching the position’s term limit.
Stuckey appointed Bethany Grace Howe and Kristina Torres to one-year terms as at-large directors. Two additional one-year appointments are anticipated and will be announced at a later date.
They join continuing board members Jen Christensen, vice president of broadcast; Ernesto Mourelo, treasurer; and at-large directors Jimmy L. Gibbs, Femi Redwood, Ken Schneck and Dan Spears.
The board will vote in the near future to fill the remaining year of Stuckey’s term as secretary and a two-year term for vice president of print and online.
“NLGJA’s strength comes from members who give their time, experience and energy to this community,” said National Board President Rick Stuckey. “I’m excited to welcome Dana and Dennis and to work alongside our returning board members as we build on 35 years of supporting LGBTQ+ journalists. Together, we will continue creating opportunities for our members and advancing fair and accurate coverage of the communities we serve.”
NLGJA thanks outgoing board members Troy Diggs and Sharif Durhams, whose elected terms have concluded, for their service and dedication to the association.
Members interested in helping shape NLGJA’s future are encouraged to get involved in committee work and consider future leadership opportunities. Learn more at nlgja.org.
About NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists
NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists is a journalist-led association working within the news media to advance fair and accurate coverage of LGBTQ+ communities and issues. We promote diverse and inclusive workplaces by holding the industry accountable and providing education, professional development and mentoring. For more information, visit nlgja.org.