'Ohio is worth fighting for': Equality Ohio names new leader amid attacks on LGBTQ+ people

Equality Ohio has found a new leader.

The nonprofit group, which advocates for fair treatment and equal opportunities for LGBTQ+ and other Ohioans, has named Dwayne Steward as its new executive director after a national search launched in late 2023.

Steward follows Alana Jochum in the position. Jochum served at Equality Ohio for 10 years, more than seven as its executive director, before announcing that she was stepping down in October 2023 to take a position with the Transgender Legal Defense & Education Fund (TLDEF).

“I am thrilled to join an organization that not only supports the community but also supports its people, and has prioritized creating a more fair and equitable workplace,” Steward said in a statement. “Our community is experiencing an unprecedented legislative assault, but I believe Ohio is worth fighting for, and I look forward to advocating on the front lines for a more inclusive Ohio.”

Several bills limiting the rights of LGBTQ+ people have been introduced in the Ohio Statehouse the past several years.

Steward is a "veteran LGBTQ+ leader" and was previously the director of inclusive excellence, accessibility and belonging at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

Steward founded and leads Make It Better Consulting, which helps nonprofit groups gain tools for sustainability, as its CEO. He also served as the interim chief people and culture officer at Equitas Health , a position he was named to in November 2021, shortly after a Dispatch investigation exposed a culture of racism within the organization.

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He attended Ohio University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism, going on to then earn a Master of Public Administration at Franklin University . Steward serves on several local boards, including Harm Reduction Ohio and the Short North Alliance . He's married to Lawrence  Howard-Steward, and they live in Columbus with their son and dog.

“Dwayne’s experience as an executive coach helping nonprofits thrive, his journalism background and his time as a community health leader will be invaluable for Equality Ohio as we fight back against those in the legislature who do not believe that all Ohioans deserve bodily autonomy and access to gender-affirming care,” said Amanda Everitt, Equality Ohio board chair, in a statement.

Steward will help the organization plan for the future, said Lynn Readey, Equality Ohio Education Fund board chair.

He will lead the nonprofit's staff of 25 and be responsible for developing the organization, fundraising, doing policy and advocacy work and more. He starts his new position on Sept. 12.

dking@dispatch.com

@DanaeKing

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: 'Ohio is worth fighting for': Equality Ohio names new leader amid attacks on LGBTQ+ people