The Board of Directors for the Illinois Safe Schools alliance has accepted the resignation of Executive Director Shannon Sullivan. After a 2-month transition period, she will be leaving the Alliance at the end of November.
"It is a tremendous understatement to say it's been an honor to serve the movement over the past 10 yearsI am so privileged to have grown up alongside the Alliance in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning ( LGBTQ ) safe schools movement," said Shannon.
Currently, the Alliance is in the second year of a five-year strategic plan that is guiding the organization's work through smart and intentional growth, documenting the impact and effectiveness, and ensuring a statewide reach.
The Board has implemented a comprehensive transition plan and Loren Linder, currently Development & Operations Director, will be serving as Interim Executive Director supported by David Fischer, Program Director. The Transition Committee will be co-chaired by Mary F. Morten, co- founder and current Board Vice Chair and Jeff Edwards, Chair-Elect/Vice Chair. The committee will include board and youth committee members.
"We are excited for Shannon as she moves to the next phase of her career," stated Board Chair Sherrine Peyton, "We are very fortunate to have had someone like her for so many years; she has a zeal for the work that is above and beyond what is required. Shannon believes in the work of the Alliance and the Board of Directors will see to it that her legacy continues."
A community event will be held in later November celebrating Shannon and the work of The Alliance.
The mission of the Illinois Safe Schools Alliance ( the Alliance ) is to promote safety, support and healthy development for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning ( LGBTQ ) youth, in Illinois schools and communities, through advocacy, education, youth organizing and research.