The Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada (The Center) has announced the appointment of a new executive director, André C. Wade.

The announcement was made on March 20. Wade is a native of Las Vegas.

“We are excited to have André step into the leadership role for The Center,” said Wayne Cassard, president of the board, in a statement. “André’s countless years of service to Southern Nevada show his passion is ignited for bringing The Center to new heights, and we are looking forward to seeing how he can help us grow to reach more people in Southern Nevada.”

Wade had previously been the director of operations for The Center. He has worked in human services for more than 15 years. Now in his new position, he has become the first African-American executive director of The Center.

“I am excited and honored to have this opportunity to lead The Center at a pivotal moment in its history as we build upon our foundation and look toward new opportunities,” said Wade. “We are going to get right down to business and begin building for a stronger future so that we can better serve the thousands of people who rely on the work and services The Center provides each day.”  

According to the press release, Wade:

Holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Nevada of Las Vegas and has volunteered on several nonprofit boards in Southern Nevada and national advisory boards focusing on LGBTQ issues.

Leaving The Center is Michael Dimengo, who has resigned from his role as the chief executive officer. 

“Serving in this role under the direction of the Board of Directors has been a privilege of a lifetime. After some much-needed relaxation, I look forward to joining The Center in a volunteer capacity in the near future,” said Dimengo.

Other notable changes at The Center include the departure of Director of Marketing Cory Burgess, who left the organization this past November. The Center has yet to find a replacement but is also considering public relations firms.

Cory Sadler, the development manager, also announced in March that he is no longer in his position at The Center.

Current employees of The Center have been advised not to discuss any details of the recent changes.

According to a former associate of The Center, the organization was denied a grant in December and many internal changes were being made to flatten the organization, with few or no levels of management between management and staff level employees being left over. 

To learn more about The Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Southern Nevada, visit TheCenterLV.org.