Meet GLAAD’s New President

He's Herndon Graddick, and he's been GLAAD's Vice President of Programs and Communication since 2010. From GLAAD:

Sheri Fults, National Co-Chair of the Board of Directors, said: "Herndon is already a well-respected leader within the LGBT movement, and we believe will be a visionary and strategic leader for GLAAD's culture-changing work."

Herndon said: "Right now GLAAD and our partners in the LGBT movement are making a significant difference at a time when a difference needs to be made. I look forward to working with our dedicated staff to create a culture where there is a welcoming and respected space for LGBT Americans. GLAAD's work with the media to inspire Americans to speak out against anti-LGBT actions and support equality is needed today more than ever."

Graddick's been the leader of such GLAAD initiatives as "Stand Up For Ellen," which went toe-to-toe with homophobes trying to shame JC Penny into sacking spokesperson Ellen DeGeneres, and the "Commentator Accountability Project," which calls to task media outlets who offer airtime to virulently anti-gay pundits (especially the Family Research Council's Tony Perkins, who's been ubiquitous on MSNBC for years).

Graddick replaces acting president Mike Thompson, who replaced Jarrett T. Barios last year.