On April 18, Ruben Gonzales, Executive Director of LGBTQ Victory Institute, will join the White House Presidential Personnel Office as Special Assistant to the President for Domestic Agency Personnel. Mayor Annise Parker, Victory Institute President & CEO, will take on interim responsibilities until a new Executive Director is named.
“We are proud of Ruben’s leadership and accomplishments during a time of unprecedented growth at Victory Institute and we look forward to seeing all he will achieve in his new role,” said Mayor Parker. “During his six-year tenure, Ruben has proven a strong advocate for equality by spearheading our work to build, support and advance a diverse network of LGBTQ public leaders in the United States and across the globe. One of his most impactful roles was leading our Presidential Appointments Initiative which helped the Biden administration achieve the most LGBTQ-inclusive administration in history. While his departure is bittersweet, we know the entire LGBTQ community will benefit significantly from having such a strong, experienced ally in the White House.”
“Each and every day, I am inspired by the dedication and drive of the Victory Institute team and our partners. From the ever-increasing impact of our U.S. and global programs to the incredible pipeline of LGBTQ people considering the call to public service, I am more excited than ever for what the future holds for Victory Institute and the LGBTQ community,” said Gonzales. “I’ve seen firsthand how much equitable representation matters and I look forward to continuing to work with Victory Institute as a member of the Biden administration.”
As Executive Director, Gonzales oversaw all of Victory Institute’s U.S. and global programs, including the Presidential Appointments Initiative which recommends and advocates for qualified LGBTQ leaders ready to serve in the administration. The Presidential Appointments Initiative was first launched during President Bill Clinton’s administration and achieved great success under President Barack Obama, who appointed approximately 330 LGBTQ people, 158 of which were assisted by the Presidential Appointments Initiative. Victory Institute, under Gonzales’ leadership, has worked with the Biden administration to help make it the most LGBTQ-inclusive in U.S. history.
In his new role at the White House Presidential Personnel Office, he will continue building the pipeline of diverse talent in government.
About Victory Institute
LGBTQ Victory Institute works to achieve and sustain global equality through leadership development, training and convening to increase the number, expand the diversity and ensure the success of openly LGBTQ elected and appointed officials at all levels of government.
