Jonny Saldana, the executive director and one of the founders of the Charlotte Gaymers Network, is stepping down and handing off the organization to the next generation.
Where the organization stands today is a far cry from where Saldana, and former co-founder Zach Smith, started when the two were just holding small events in a few cubicles in Tabbris on South Boulevard.
Within five years’ time, the organization was able to grow their flagship event, Gaymer Gathering, from a handful of friends and curious on-lookers during the COVID-19 pandemic to bringing out hundreds yearly in many large communal spaces.
Under Saldana’s guidance, with help from leadership teams, the organization was able to move beyond the borders of Charlotte to bring a unique brand of queer hospitality and gaming excellence to major events, including Anime Weekend Atlanta; Kami-Con and Huntsville Anime Invasion in Alabama; FanimeCon and the Creating Change Conference in California; and Pittsburgh Pride.
The largest impact CGN has had with Saldana at the helm remains in the Queen City. Through the development of programs like Project Blue Shell, CGN helped reduce school suspensions, increase standardized testing scores and overall school attendance. Then there’s the success of Project Save Point, a privatized mutual aid fund focusing on transgender individuals in the Charlotte community.
“As I reflect on the journey of building the Charlotte Gaymers Network, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the many hands and hearts that helped bring this vision to life,” Saldana stated in a press release. “What began as a simple idea, a space where queer gamers could find connection and joy, has grown into something far greater than I ever imagined. CGN has become a sanctuary, a launchpad, and a rallying point for a community that often struggles to find space for itself. Our achievements are collective, born from late nights, bold ideas and an unwavering belief in the power of chosen family.”
Taking over for Saldana will be Will Jeffcoat-McLeod, currently serving as CGN’s deputy director.
“Since joining CGN, Will has shown up with unwavering commitment, vision and a fierce passion that has propelled many of our operations forward,” Saldana says of his successor. “His leadership is grounded in purpose and driven by a deep belief in the power of our community. I am confident that under Will’s guidance, CGN’s mission will not only endure, it will evolve. He is poised to inspire radical change and lead our organization into a bold new chapter, forging a path through the unknown with courage and clarity.”
“It’s been the greatest honor of my life to serve this community. I’ve laughed, I’ve cried [and] I’ve learned. I leave this role not with sadness, but with profound gratitude.”