In the midst of a global COVID-19 pandemic, we have some positive news to share with our network. We are thrilled to announce the promotions of Nicole Fernandes and Andrew Wallace, two staff members who have been doing incredible work.

Nicole joined Funders for LGBTQ Issues a year ago and rapidly assumed an increasing amount of responsibility within the Finance and Administration department. She is being promoted from the role of Executive and Operations Assistant to Finance and Administrative Associate. In the words of her manager, Marvin Webb, Vice President of Finance and Administration:

“Nicole has become a valued member of the finance and administration team. She brings extra creativity and impressive clarity to our department, which in turn strengthens the organization’s ability to be a strategic thought leader in finance and human resources.” – Marvin Webb, Vice President of Finance and Administration

Andrew joined Funders for LGBTQ Issues in 2016 and has taken on increasing responsibility in the research and communications department since then. He is being promoted to from Research and Communications Officer to Director of Research and Communications. Andrew now leads production of the annual tracking report from start to finish. He also represents the organization’s research externally with various speaking engagements and a seat at the CHANGE Philanthropy Research and Data Sharing working group. The systems he created and improved upon have strengthened not only the organization’s ability to produce quality research but have also allowed the department to take on an increasing amount of public policy work. Having successfully served as the acting Vice President of Research and Communications during Lyle’s sabbatical, he is ready for this promotion. As Andrew’s manager, Lyle Matthew Kan, Vice President of Research and Communications remarked: 

“Over the past three years, I feel honored to have witnessed Andrew’s remarkable growth as a researcher, speaker, writer and — more than anything — leader. As a universally beloved colleague who takes uncommon ownership and initiative in his work, mentors his peers, and constantly improves our systems and final work product, Andrew has earned my admiration, respect, and this promotion.” – Lyle Matthew Kan, Vice President of Research & Communications

Please join us in congratulating Andrew and Nicole on their well-earned promotions! To help you get to know Nicole and Andrew better, below is a brief profile of each (including some fun facts you may not know about them).

Nicole Fernandes

Finance and Administrative Associate

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Nicole has strong experience in both administrative and programmatic roles, including roles in nonprofit and grassroots organizations.  Some of Nicole’s experience includes serving as a Transform Fellow at the Sylvia Rivera Project and working with Black Trans Media to help organize their Trans Women of Color convening. Most recently, Nicole served as an Information and Referral Specialist at The Center.

What is your favorite time of the day and why?

I’d say 10 am is my favorite time of the day because my body and mind are working with each other rather than against. I am energized and at my most productive at this time. 

What do you like best about working at Funders?

My favorite thing about working at Funders is being able to work with such supportive co-workers. I am grateful to work and learn in a space that continues to facilitate my growth in every aspect. 

Andrew Wallace

Director of Research and Communications

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Andrew is the Research and Communications Director at Funders for LGBTQ Issues, a national association of foundations committed to increasing philanthropic support for LGBTQ communities. In his role he oversees Funders for LGBTQ Issues’ extensive database of LGBTQ grants and produces sector leading research analyzing trends, gaps, and opportunities related to LGBTQ philanthropy. Andrew specializes in using data to articulate the ways in which LGBTQ communities are impacted by a range of grantmaking priorities and has presented research to diverse audiences throughout the sector. He is committed creating compelling and relevant content and working to transform philanthropy to be more accountable, responsive, and effective. Additionally, Andrew supports the organization’s wider communications efforts and serves on a number of committees and working groups.

Prior to joining Funders, Andrew was a Program Manager at StoryCorps where he oversaw the launch of OutLoud, an initiative dedicated to documenting and amplifying the voices of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people across the United States. He worked with LGBTQ communities and organizations across the country and collaborated with a talented team of archivist and facilitators to build a significant collection of queer interviews that is today housed at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress. He believes deeply in the power of listening and continues to be interested in the capacity of oral history to amplify unheard voices and build community.

Andrew received his B.A. from Colorado College, in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

What is your favorite time of the day and why?

What do you like best about working at Funders?

Please join us in congratulating Nicole and Andrew on their promotions!

Image note: Photo by Dose Media on Unsplash