The former television producer said he looks forward to helping the group’s mission of creating “a culture where there is a welcoming and respected space for LGBT Americans”
LGBT advocate and former television producer Herndon Graddick has been elected the next president of GLAAD.
Officials at the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation praised Graddick as a committed advocate for equality and as an inspirational figure.
“Herndon Graddick is already a well-respected leader within the LGBT movement, and we believe will be a visionary and strategic leader for GLAAD’s culture-changing work,” Sheri Fults, National Co-Chair of the Board of Directors, said in a statement.
Since 2010, Graddick has served as vice president of programs and communications at GLAAD, where he helped organize the Stand up for Ellen campaign, launched in response to the group One Million Moms calling for Ellen DeGeneres to be fired as a spokesperson for J.C. Penney because of her sexual orientation.
Graddick said he looked forward to working toward change as GLAAD president.
“Right now GLAAD and our partners in the LGBT movement are making a significant difference at a time when a difference needs to be made, Graddick said in a statement. “I look forward to working with our dedicated staff to create a culture where there is a welcoming and respected space for LGBT Americans. GLAAD’s work with the media to inspire Americans to speak out against anti-LGBT actions and support equality is needed today more than ever.”
Graddick previously worked as a supervising producer at E! Networks and as the day-of-air news division director at CURRENT TV. He will speak at the 23rd Annual GLAAD Media Awards in Los Angeles on April 21, where he will be officially introduced as president.
