The Naturally Proud Network (NPN), an industry nonprofit dedicated to connecting LGBTQ+ professionals across the natural products and nutraceutical industries, elected a new board of directors, ahead of Natural Products Expo West.

“Now more than ever, it’s so important for members of the LGBTQ+ community to feel seen and heard in the workplace, and we’re proud to help foster that community,” said Kurt Callaghan, newly-elected NPN president. “I can already feel renewed energy from the board as we work to elevate our mission and build upon the foundation our founders laid.”

The newly elected board of directors includes:

• Kurt Callaghan, president
• Mehgan Styke, vice president
• Douglas Jones, secretary
• Randy Kreienbrink, treasurer
• Brit Swann, programs & events
• Jake Klinghammer, membership & community engagement
• Jim Hibsch, marketing & communications

Since its founding, NPN has raised nearly $80,000 for organizations that promote equality and provide community support, including The Trevor Project and LGBTQ+ centers in Las Vegas, Chicago, and California.

At this year’s event, NPN is hosting a happy hour at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, at the California A room on the second floor of the Hilton Anaheim, where it will raise funds for the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law to support its mission to conduct independent research on sexual orientation and gender identity law and public policy. As part of the event, Brad Sears of the Williams Institute will deliver a brief keynote, “Navigating the Workplace for LGBTQI+ People in Today’s Environment.” The happy hour is free and open to all.

“We’re entering a new chapter of growth for the organization: expanding sponsor engagement, growing our membership community, and building momentum across the industry,” Callaghan said. “Our event at Expo West is a powerful launchpad for what’s ahead.”