Rommel brings more than 14 years of HR leadership across industries, from banking and hospitals to big tech, but found his way to where he feels most at home: nonprofit work. As Director of Human Resources at LGBT Life Center, he’s focused on supporting staff, strengthening systems, and helping people navigate everything from career growth…
New Staff
Meet Jessi: Helping People Find Home on the Peninsula
After earning her degree in Human Services, Jessi Hanson joined the City of Hampton’s Department of Human Services, working in benefits and gaining hands-on experience through Adult Protective Services. Now, as a Housing Specialist at LGBT Life Center, Jessi helps clients in the CHAP Peninsula program find stable housing, often supporting people as they move into…
Meet Michael: Helping The Center Run Smoothly
As our new Operations Manager, Michael is focused on building and refining the systems that keep things running smoothly, from facilities to workflows to the tools staff rely on every day. With a background that spans art, nonprofits, and process design (plus a surprising start glazing ceramics in a production factory), Michael brings a thoughtful,…
Welcoming Andrew Garber Back to LGBT Life Center
Andrew is back at LGBT Life Center, this time as our Supportive Services Program Manager, bringing years of experience, connection, and a clear commitment to serving the LGBTQ+ community. After previously working at the Center and continuing that work through leadership roles at Old Dominion University and the University of Tampa, Andrew returns with a…
Meet Brandon: Supporting Stability, One Home at a Time
Brandon Okubo recently joined LGBT Life Center as a Housing Specialist, bringing a background in human services and a clear focus on helping people stay housed. After graduating from Old Dominion University and interning with the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, he’s ready to put that experience into action, supporting clients and…
LGBT Life Center Welcomes Max Back as Medical Case Management Intern
Max is returning to LGBT Life Center in a new role as a Medical Case Management intern. He previously spent two years with the Center working with NHBS and the Prevention team before stepping away to pursue his degree full-time at Old Dominion University. Now he’s back and eager to keep learning while helping connect…
Meet Aeron Novotny: Supporting Stability, Strengthening Community
We’re excited to welcome Aeron Novotny to LGBT Life Center. As our newest Housing Stabilization Specialist, Aeron brings a unique blend of lived experience, service, and community-centered passion. With a background spanning military service, human development, and housing navigation, he joins our team with a deep commitment to supporting stability, dignity, and care for those…
Community Care in Action: Meg Champion Joins LGBT Life Center
Meg Champion joins LGBT Life Center as a Community Health Navigator, bringing a uniquely diverse background shaped by military service, medical training, and survivor advocacy. After serving five years on active duty in the U.S. Navy, Meg transitioned into the reserves and continues pursuing her passion for healthcare through nursing school. Her professional journey reflects…
Welcome Back, Hailee, Our Housing Dept Intern
Name/Nickname: HaileePronouns: she/herJob title: Housing Department Intern Hailee joins the Housing team as a Housing Department Intern, returning to LGBT Life Center as she completes her MSW coursework. Having previously interned with the Center, Hailee brings familiarity, curiosity, and a desire to deepen her contributions in this next chapter. Her return reflects both her continued commitment to the…
Getting to Know Garian Bridges, Program Support Specialist
Garian Bridges serves as a Program Support Specialist at our Hampton location, where she supports a range of essential housing and client services. With a background in advocacy and a strong academic focus in Sociology and Political Science, Garian brings both compassion and purpose to her work. Her commitment to equity, inclusion, and community support…