This week, LGBT activism group Michigan Equality announced that openly-lesbian Northern MIchigan University Trustee Garnet Lewis has joined their Board of Directors.
Lewis joined the board shortly after her historic confirmation to NMU's Board of Trustees as the first openly gay person appointed to a governance board for a Michigan university. Lewis was appointed to the NMU Board of Trustees by Governor Jennifer Granholm. The Michigan Senate unanimously confirmed her appointment.
Lewis is also the associate director of Professional Education in the College of Education at Central Michigan University and was Michigan's first openly gay candidate for the Michigan House of Representatives in 2008.
A longtime supporter of many progressive organizations and causes, Lewis and her partner, Vicky Cobb, have been supporters of Michigan Equality for years and became sustaining members in 2009.
"Garnet brings a rich background of community service and political activism to Michigan Equality," commented Michigan Equality Co-Director Michelle Brown. "Her addition to the board also enhances the geographical diversity needed by Michigan Equality to truly serve members of the entire LGBT community, allowing us to be on the forefront, changing the face of politics in Michigan."
"Having someone with Garnet's political acumen and connections to the Tri-Cities area is so important as we go across the state engaging in community conversations about the LGBT movement," added Co-Director Dr. Julie Nemecek. "We are delighted to have her as part of our team."
For her part, Lewis said that she is "humbled by how people view my role and hope that I contribute in some small way."
Lewis officially joined the Michigan Equality Board of Directors on April 7.
Michigan Equality welcomes Garnet Lewis to board of directors
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