Atlanta, Georgia. – The Atlanta Pride Committee announced today that they have named Jamie Fergerson as their new Executive Director. Fergerson will fill the vacancy created by Buck Cooke’s departure. Cooke made the announcement in March that he will be moving to London in July. The selection was made after a national search.
Atlanta Pride Board Chair, Trisha Clymore, said of the appointment, “ We are very pleased to make this announcement.” Clymore added, “Jamie’s career history, education and community service is a perfect fit for Atlanta Pride. She has a deep sense of commitment to this organization- and has already enthusiastically served at a variety of program, executive and leadership levels so her position is exceptional.” Clymore finished, “Jamie has a breadth of perspective and experience that makes her uniquely qualified to continue moving Atlanta Pride toward lasting and greater success.”
Fergerson’s resume includes a career that spans 15 years of fundraising, executive planning, administration, community building and event experience. Most recently, she served at Susan G. Komen Greater Atlanta where she managed the organization’s grantmaking and community outreach. She is a familiar face with Atlanta Pride, where she has served as a volunteer for over a decade.
When asked about her connection to Atlanta Pride, Fergerson reflected, “ I moved to Atlanta during Pride Week of 2001. I was in the middle of a difficult coming out process, and Atlanta Pride was my first glimpse into the vibrant LGBTQ community in Atlanta.” She continued, “Atlanta Pride was a source of hope for me. I began volunteering the next year and I’ve never left.”
About the Executive Director position, Fergerson stated, “ I am thrilled at the opportunity to serve Atlanta Pride and Atlanta’s LGBTQ community in this new capacity.” She continued, “As I prepare to lead this organization into its 45th annual Pride observance, I am incredibly grateful to all of those people who have worked to build the Pride movement. This certainly includes my predecessor and friend, Buck Cooke.” Finally, she noted, “ I look forward to working with all of the members of our diverse community and our allies to continue the march towards justice and equality for all.”
Fergerson’s first day with the organization will be June 29. She will spend several weeks working along side outgoing ED, Buck Cooke, in order to ensure a seamless transition into the role. Cooke’s final day with Atlanta Pride will be July 9.
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About Atlanta Pride: The main purpose of the Atlanta Pride Committee (APC,) a 501 (c) 3 organization, is to promote unity, visibility and self-esteem among lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender and queer persons and to promote a positive image in the Atlanta area and throughout the Southeastern United States through community activities and services.
The main mission of the APC is to provide lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgender and queer persons with cultural and educational programs and activities which enhance mental and physical health, provide social support, and foster an awareness of the past and present contributions of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender and queer persons, through community activities and services, including an annual Pride event.
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