Come Out With Pride (COWP) 2011 is getting a fashionable theme and some new leadership. The 2011 theme “Pride Is Always in Fashion: Out is the New In” was selected by former board president Dr. David Baker-Hargrove.
After Baker-Hargrove’s departure from the helm, the board made changes in COWP’s bylaws that allowed for the appointment of an executive director, making the event a year-round operation. Mikeal Audebert will serve as COWP’s executive director and senior executive producer.
“As executive director of event development in 2010, [Audobert] took COWP to the next level in all areas,” said COWP board president Gina Duncan. “The event drew a record number of sponsors, vendors and record attendance, with more than 70,000 attending.”
Audebert said his goals include attracting national advertisers and sponsors to the event.
“We have already laid out a plan to revamp certain areas as well as give COWP more significance throughout the year with the development of new and improved-upon programs and grants,” said Audebert.
The board has also approved a new logo to repersent COWP.
