Gunner Scott, a founding member and executive director of the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition since 2008, will be leaving MTPC at the end of February to pursue other opportunities. “We are enormously grateful to Gunner for the tremendous work he has done on behalf of transgender youth, adults, our families and the community in Massachusetts. We’re all very sorry to see him go, and we’re also looking forward to building further on our collective vision for this organization and our community,” said Chair Nancy Nangeroni.
“I have been so privileged and honored to have been able to work with an amazing and dedicated steering committee, staff, volunteers, and many transgender youth, adults, their families, and our allies. Knowing that I’ve been supported in my advocacy for my community has made this work so meaningful for me and I leave MTPC being proud of the work that I have done. I want to thank all those that have put their trust into sharing their stories with me, whether towards passing legislation or just talking about their experiences. I look forward to seeing the next chapter of MTPC unfold and I am confident that the organization will grow stronger,” said Gunner Scott.
Community organizer Jesse Begenyi, who has been working alongside Gunner since 2009, will serve as MTPC’s interim director while the steering committee undertakes a careful process to identify and hire a new permanent director. We will engage in an assessment process that will help us to reflect on our progress, plan for the leadership transition and set our strategic direction. The search for a new director will begin in the next couple of months with a formal job announcement. Third Sector New England will be providing organizational expertise throughout the transition, through a grant from the Boston Foundation Vision Fund.
Vice Chair Maxwell Ng adds, "Gunner Scott and the MTPC have made it safer for me to live and work in Massachusetts. I know the Steering Committee is firmly committed to its mission as well as the community that the MTPC has fostered. The foundation already laid inspires me to look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.”
A public gathering to honor Gunner for his work will be held Friday, Feb 22 at Club Cafe, 209 Columbus Ave, Boston, from 6:30 to 9pm.
Founded in 2001, the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition (MTPC) is a 501(c) 3 that works to end discrimination on the basis of gender identity and gender expression. MTPC educates the public, advocates with state, local, and federal government, engages in political activism, and encourages empowerment of community members through collective action. More information can be found at www.masstpc.org.
