(Photos from onePULSE Foundation)
ORLANDO | Deborah Bowie, onePULSE Foundation’s executive director, has stepped down from the organization, according to a report from WESH 2.
Bowie was hired as the foundation’s executive director in June 2022 after the previous director, Barbara Poma — also onePULSE’s founder and original owner of the Pulse nightclub — stepped away from the organization.
“We are saddened by Deborah’s resignation during this time of transition for the onePULSE Foundation. Deborah came into a situation that was difficult to say the least and faced a daunting set of challenges including the aftermath of COVID and the stalled negotiations over the Pulse property,” said Yolanda Londoño, onePULSE Foundation Board spokesperson, in a statement. “As a board comprised completely of volunteers, we rely on our professional staff to keep our efforts coordinated and focused, and we appreciate all Deborah has done to sustain the mission of the onePULSE Foundation, her respect for all stakeholders and her stewardship of staff and donors. We wish her nothing but success in her future endeavors.
“With all of the recent developments, the onePULSE Foundation Board is in the process of reevaluating its mission to make sure it aligns with the new realities,” Londoño continued. “We will keep everyone updated as those discussions evolve, and decisions are made as to the best way to honor the lives of the 49 Angels and to help with the continuing healing of all those impacted by the Pulse tragedy.”
Bowie’s departure is just the latest in a series of changes coming from the foundation this year that began in May when it was announced that a deal could not be reached between onePULSE and the Pulse owners for the sale of the property. That dispute led the City of Orlando to purchase the Pulse property from the owners last month.
Following the sale announcement, onePULSE decided not to move forward with the planned Pulse Museum and board chair Earl Crittenden resigned from his position.
