Detroit, MI (March 19, 2009) - Triangle Foundation, Michigan’s leading LGBT civil rights organization, proudly announces three new additions to its Board of Trustees.  

Joining the Board will be Paula Merideth of Detroit, Rachel Lutz of Bloomfield Hills, and Joy Geng of Dearborn, who is also a founding member of the organization.  “We are honored that they will be joining us,” says Denise Brogan-Kator, newly elected Board of Trustees Chair.  “These community members have had a long commitment to progress in Michigan and advocacy within the LGBT communities.”

"Our invitation to these individuals to join the Board came out of our desire to infuse the Board with new ideas, new energy, and diverse talents,” said Brogan-Kator.  “We are actively seeking qualified people to serve on the Board who will further the mission and vision of our organization and who have an understanding of the current environment of the LGBT movement and the challenges we face."

"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Alicia and the entire staff." said Joy Geng, entering Board Member at Triangle Foundation. "They are young, passionate, and hard working.  It’s just as exciting now as it was when Triangle first began."

Departing from the Board are Roland Smith, John Allen, and James Lessenberry. Triangle acknowledges their sincere dedication and is grateful for the service they have provided over the years.  “These board members have worked tirelessly and have sacrificed their time and talents to serve the community, often without the recognition they deserve,” said Alicia Skillman, Executive Director of Triangle Foundation.  “They have demonstrated in a very real way their commitment to the mission of Triangle Foundation and we hope they will continue to serve the organization on the Advisory Board, where their wisdom and years of experience will be invaluable as we move forward.  Our movement needs more people with their kind of dedication.” 

"I continue to have great fondness for Triangle and expect great things to come from this new board and its Executive Director,” stated James Lessenberry, former Board Chair and staunch supporter of Triangle. “Michigan's GLBT community needs a strong voice advocating for it on many levels. Non-profits are facing disproportionate disadvantage from the economic reality of today. This new team is well positioned to continue the Triangle tradition of well reasoned and respected leadership."