READING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NAMED TO COMMONWEALTH COMMISSION

READING, Pa.: The Executive Committee of the Pennsylvania Commission on LGBTQ Affairs announced Tuesday that it selected Michelle Dech, Executive Director of the LGBT Center of Greater Reading, to serve on the statewide commission. Dech will be sworn in during the Fall Commission meeting on Friday, November 20, following remarks from Governor Tom Wolf and Secretary Rachel Levine.

“Michelle is the ideal person to represent the Reading and Berks County area LGBTQIA+ community at the state level,” said Tim Gruesel, President of the Board of the LGBT Center of Greater Reading. “Her impact at our center is undeniable, and I am certain she will broaden and further that impact in her role as a commissioner.”

As a commissioner, Dech will join legislators, professionals, and activists from across the Commonwealth in advising the Governor and state agencies regarding policies, programs, and legislation that impact LGBTQ communities and to serve as a resourceful intermediary between LGBTQ communities and state government.

“I am honored to serve on the commission,” said Dech. “At the LGBT Center, ours is a mission of unity, one that allows us to meet division and hatred with kindness, love, and education. The opportunity to carry forward that mission at the state level is invaluable.”

Dech’s appointment as commissioner was announced by Rafael Álvarez Febo, Executive Director of the Commission. The fall meeting coincides with the 2020 Transgender Day of Remembrance and will include a program honoring the day.