The Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center announced Monday that Krista Brown-Ly will serve as its new executive director.
Brown-Ly, a nonprofit leader with more than 20 years of experience in equity and inclusion work, first joined the center in 2022. She stepped into the role of interim executive director in 2024 following the resignation of Ashley L. Coleman, who had served since January 2023 amid shifting political and funding challenges.
“I am beyond thrilled with the opportunity to serve this incredible community,” Brown-Ly said in a statement.
The Bradbury-Sullivan center was founded by Adrian Shanker in 2014 and officially opened in 2016. It has evolved into a hub serving thousands in the Lehigh Valley. Its offerings include HIV and hepatitis C testing, youth leadership initiatives, film screenings, support groups and public health programs.
Brown-Ly’s elevation to permanent director comes as the center continues efforts to stabilize and expand programming following financial challenges in 2024. The organization has operated on a multimillion-dollar budget since its opening. Under her interim leadership, the center maintained services while exploring new strategies to diversify funding.
Brown-Ly will oversee day-to-day operations and lead growth initiatives for the organization, effective immediately. She emphasized a continued focus on keeping the center’s work “community-focused, responsive and grounded in the lived experiences of our LGBTQIA+ community.”
Board Chair Marvin Webb expressed strong confidence in Brown-Ly.
“Her leadership is grounded in care, community and a commitment to amplifying diverse voices while creating space for meaningful participation,” Webb said.
