Richard Burns leaves Funders for LGBTQ Issues (Funders) this month after serving as interim executive director for 6 months. Drawing on his extensive experience in the LGBTQ movement and philanthropy, Richard stewarded the organization steadily during the transition period. “On behalf of the board of directors, I want to extend my gratitude to Richard for his work on our behalf in 2012. Funders benefited tremendously from his wisdom and good humor as we navigated transition,” said Andrew Lane, Executive Director of the Johnson Family Foundation, and Board Chair of Funders. During his six-month tenure, Richard worked closely with both board and staff, strengthening our internal operations and facilitating a smooth and effective transition.

Prior to coming to Funders, Richard served as Interim Executive Director of Stonewall Community Foundation and as Chief Operating Officer at the Arcus Foundation—two leading LGBTQ foundations that are long-time members of Funders for LGBTQ Issues. Richard was Executive Director of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center in New York City from 1986 to 2009. He is a member of the selection committee of the New York Community Trust – New York Magazine Nonprofit Excellence Awards and serves as Vice-Chair of the board of directors of the Non-Profit Coordinating Committee. Richard also serves on the board of directors of New York’s AIDS Memorial Park campaign and on the advisory board of the Center for HIV Law & Policy. He is a graduate of Hamilton College and Northeastern University School of Law.

The entire board and staff of Funders wish Richard great success as he moves into his role as Interim Executive of The Funding Exchange.