Diversity Richmond announced Lacette Cross will become the organization’s new executive director, effective Oct. 17. “We’re thrilled to name Lacette Cross our executive director, to lead our talented staff and to continue the important work Diversity Richmond accomplishes in building a more inclusive and equitable region,” said Chris Moore, board chair. “Lacette possesses a truly unique combination of understanding the challenges we face as a community and the impactful ways that Diversity Richmond can serve the LGBTQ+ community, our families, friends and our allies.”

“Diversity Richmond has a rich legacy of being a catalyst, a voice, a place and a resource for Richmond’s LGBTQ+ community,” Dr. Cross said. “It is an honor to be chosen as the next executive director, and I am elated to join Diversity’s phenomenal board and staff at this pivotal moment for the organization. Together we will link arms to continue building the kind of dynamic, responsive and equitable organization our community deserves.”

Dr. Cross has more than 15 years of experience working with regional nonprofits in various positions, most recently as VA SIP strategic advisor with NEO Philanthropy. She served as interim executive director for Side-by-Side during 2021, after serving as its director of Volunteers and Outreach.

Dr. Cross earned a doctorate of ministry degree at Virginia Union University, a master’s in theology at Union Presbyterian Seminary, a master’s of divinity at VUU, and a bachelor’s in social work at Catholic University of America.

She was named an Equity + Health Fellow with the Richmond Memorial Health Foundation and earned a Community Trustbuilding Fellowship with Initiatives of Change.