Toni Newman, an African-American Transwoman, Named New Interim Executive Director of LYRIC

 With an election that direcly impact on the LGBTQI+ community right around the corner, San Francisco’s esteemed nonprofit LYRIC has named Toni Newman as Interim Executive Director while Jodi L. Schwartz continues as President to oversee the ongoing capital campaign to expand LYRIC’s landmark home in San Francisco’s Castro District, allowing for expanded program opportunities for youth.

LYRIC is the San Francisco Bay Area’s leading organization offering expertise in youth workforce development, healthcare navigation, individual counseling, and group-based community building to marginalized low-income LGBTQQ+ youth. In the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, LYRIC has continued its vital work for LGBTQQ youth in our community.

“After an extensive interview process with the Board of Directors, LYRIC staff, and LYRIC youth, it became clear that Toni is the leader for LYRIC at this moment,” said LYRIC Board Co-Chairs Adam Leonard and Phil Kim in a statement. “The Board’s unanimous decision to welcome Toni to LYRIC speaks to our confidence in her leadership and experience. We are grateful for Jodi’s commitment to our shared mission and look forward to our partnership with staff and youth to ensure LYRIC thrives for generations to come.”

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to join the dedicated and devoted LYRIC staff, board, volunteers, and donors. I accept the mission of LYRIC to build community and inspire positive social change through education enhancement, career training, health promotion, and leadership development with LGBTQQ youth, their families, and allies of all races, classes, genders, and abilities,” said Newman.