By Dawn Wolfe Gutterman
LANSING – Chris Swope, who has served Michigan Equality for two years, will be stepping down from his position as executive director on Dec. 29. Swope, who is running for Lansing City Clerk, said that he is leaving Michigan Equality in order to ensure a smooth transition.
"If I win my election, there [will] not be time to do a transition after the election," he said. "Our goal is to have a new executive director start before I leave, and that way Michigan Equality isn't threatened by the fact that I'm running for office."
Swope is also currently an Ingham County Commissioner; a post he will also relinquish if his city clerk bid is successful.
Swope expressed confidence in the continued success of Michigan Equality, which provides support to pro-LGBT candidates.
"I'm excited for the organization, and I want to stay involved in the future," he said. "I think we've grown in the time that I've been here and I think we'll continue to grow. We are helping elect people who support equality for LGBT folks, and I think that's an invaluable service."
