The NDC Board is comprised of strong community advocates that believe in the support we want to bring for LGBTQIA lives in Chattanooga. They each bring a unique set of skills combined with the same passion for bringing support and equality to the city they hold close to their heart.
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Get to know our amazing team and why they believe The Nooga Diversity Center is important and necessary to the city of Chattanooga.
Mellisa Trot
Laura Hessler
Myke Kelly
Shawn Feagans
Jennifer Martin
NDC is integral to the growth and support of the LGBTQ community. Not only does it provide resources, events and community space for all ages, it also provides a safe place for abandoned youth.
I want to help create a safe and affirming community in this region and NDC, and the people who work with it, will create that reality. As the buckle of the Bible belt, this area has the opportunity to increase acceptance of the LGBTQI community.
Many changes have happened swiftly to make things better for many people, but as long as someone feels that they are less than or "other," because of the things that make them a unique and loving person, there is a need for NDC.
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NDC will be here working to make everyone feel accepted and connected.
A native Tennessean, Laura Hessler serves as the lead for our community programs and is currently responsible for building a host and training program for displaced LGBTQ youths and young adults. In addition to her work with NDC, Laura serves as a Mentor at start-up accelerator Co.Lab & GigTank and volunteers for numerous committees and causes ranging from women’s advancement to historic preservation. She has been featured in Diversity Magazine and speaks at both the local and state level on topics ranging from workforce development to corporate culture. She is passionate about politics, activism, and community development and believes civil rights are human rights and that everyone deserves them.
As a member of the LGBTQI community, NDC is vital to our members by providing educational resources, local support, and most importantly a safe space for LGBTQI. My utmost goal in life is to serve others. The Nooga Diversity Center aligns with my core values of service, safety, and collaboration. I carry great pride knowing this organization is here built “by the people, for the people”.
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Chattanooga needs a resource center for LGBTQ people to acquire a variety of services and local support.
As a native Chattanoogan, founding board members, and proud mom, I want to advocate for LGBTQI families and youth in our community. I look forward to helping NDC grow as an organization that inspires, empowers, connects, and educates others to "be the change they want to see in the world".