10/25/2021
Ryan Kirrane, The LOFT's Community Engagement Manager recently shared with The LOFT staff that he's leaving to start a new chapter in his career. We thought we'd share the news about Ryan on OUTSpoken as a way to also celebrate and acknowledge his outstanding service to the community while also giving him a platform to share any final thoughts and messages. The LOFT would like to thank Ryan for his 4+ years of dedicated and outstanding service, he will be greatly missed!
Ryan, we're so sad to see you go but also genuinely happy for your next chapter. Would you like to share with our community the exciting news of where you're headed next?
Ryan: I'm emotional about heading to this next chapter as well! I will be moving on to work for the NYC Department of Health/Mental Hygiene as an LGBTQ Health Projects Coordinator.
Was there something during your time at The LOFT that you feel helped you prepare for this next role?
Ryan: I feel that all of my experiences here at the center contribute to who I am today and I will forever be grateful for that. I started here at The LOFT right after undergrad and feel like I've been transformed as a leader and advocate because of my experiences here.
In the 4+ years that you've been with The LOFT, what are some highlights or experiences that stand out for you as being truly memorable?
Ryan:
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Helping to work on Westchester Pride was always a whirlwind experience, always culminating with a sense of PRIDE for The LOFT and the greater LGBTQ+ community knowing that the work that we did during Pride, and also year-round is so integral.
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Learning how to lobby and discuss LGBTQ+ affirming and life-saving policies while visiting Albany is an experience that I don't take for granted. Being able to be surrounded by fellow staff, volunteers, and community members who are all so passionate about creating a more equitable New York will always be inspiring.
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The many laughs that I shared with staff and volunteers, which I will treasure for a very long time.
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Working with such a supportive and caring staff and volunteers that became life-long friends and family.
As The LOFT's Community Engagement Manager you've worked with a countless number of our community members through the years, is there anything you'd like to say to them?
Ryan: I want to simply say thank you. Thank you for being an integral part of my journey here at The LOFT. Thank you for allowing me to be me and thank you for being you and welcoming me in.
Ryan's last day at The LOFT will be October 30, 2021. To send him well wishes please use [email protected]