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Meet the Equality Punta Gorda Board Members

Ed 1.heic

I have been deeply rooted in Equality Punta Gorda since moving here in 2020, ultimately stepping up to lead the organization in June 2025.

My career in project management and commercial furniture design has made me a versatile, adaptable strategist who dives headfirst into complex challenges and delivers results. Serving on the board allows me to stay connected to the very heartbeat of our mission.

I am dedicated to building a resilient, resourceful, and visible community, positioning Equality Punta Gorda as a vital gateway of opportunity and support for everyone.

When I am not championing our nonprofit or working, I am at home recharging with my husband Glenn and our beautifully chaotic Maine Coon mix, Havoc.

Ed Peterson 

President

epeterson@equalitypg.org

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I’ve been part of Equality Punta Gorda (EPG) since April and currently serve as Secretary.

I joined EPG because I want to help our LGBTQ+ community grow, raise awareness, and build a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and included. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in customer service, billing, accounting, and IT.

I’ve also had the rewarding experience of being a stay-at-home mom. Kindness and respect are important to me, and I strive to bring those values into everything I do. Outside of EPG, I enjoy gardening, crocheting, line dancing, and playing pickleball. The beach is my happy place, and I have a special love for critters of all kinds. Bees, frogs, tortoises, and manatees are among my favorites. I also love orchids and bromeliads, which are my favorite plants.

My girlfriend and I share our home with five dogs, three cats, and two birds, so our household is always full of love, energy, and personality! I’m excited to be part of EPG and look forward to helping our community continue to grow, connect, and thrive.

             Nadine Champion-Thomas          Secretary

nchampionthomas@equalitypg.org

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As a current board member of Equality Punta Gorda, I am excited about the opportunity to serve as Director of Events and bring my experience, leadership, and passion for our community into this role.

In my previous position as Vice President of Facilities, I gained valuable experience working with nonprofit organizations, state and local government, and community partners. My responsibilities extended beyond facilities management and included assisting with event planning and coordination. I understand that successful events involve much more than what people see on the day of the event. The planning, organization, communication, volunteer coordination, and behind-the-scenes work are what make everything come together.

I also served on the Charlotte County Pride Committee for a year and a half, where I gained firsthand experience helping organize and support events that bring our community together. I am a very social person who enjoys meeting people, building relationships, and making everyone feel welcome. I believe those qualities, combined with my experience, would be a valuable asset to Equality Punta Gorda. As a current board member, I am already invested in the mission and future of Equality Punta Gorda. I understand our goals and want to help us continue growing our presence in the community.

As Director of Events, I would bring my organizational skills, community connections, enthusiasm, and willingness to roll up my sleeves and get the job done. My goal is to help Equality Punta Gorda host meaningful, welcoming, and successful events that strengthen our organization, increase community involvement, and demonstrate that Equality Punta Gorda is here for everyone.

Ron Tolan

Director of Events

rtolan@equalitypg.org

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I also joined equality Punta Gorda (EPG), in April 2026 and am the IT / Webmaster of the group.

When I was asked to join this group I was truly honored.  We get the opportunity to make a positive difference in the LGBTQ+ community and the people I am working with are truly exceptional and committed to making our organization a rousing success.

My background in IT and Project Management will enhance our ability to reach as many LGBTQ+ and allies as possible in The SWFL / Charlotte County areas.  This is my first time creating and managing a website but I am definitely up for the challenge.

I am an avid gardener and a member of the Charlotte County Master Gardener Volunteers.  I have attached orchids to all of our trees and various pieces of driftwood.  My husband Randy and I live on a lake in Deep Creek and immensely enjoy the wildlife. 

Harry McConchie

Director of OutReach

hmcconchie@equalitypg.org

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Bio Coming Soon

Rick Coultier

Treasurer 

rcoultier@equalitypg.org

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