In its continuing efforts to develop and cultivate LGBT leaders, the Gay & Lesbian Leadership Institute has announced the launch of the Presidential Appointments Project.

This non-partisan effort, done in partnership with the Human Rights Campaign, the National Black Justice Coalition, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, and Stonewall Democrats, intends to grow the pool of openly LGBT professionals who would be qualified and ready to accept politically appointed positions in the next U.S. presidential administration. GLLI will identify, recruit and vet applicants for thousands of executive branch positions that will be filled with political appointees after the next president is sworn in.

Ambassador James C. Hormel, who became the first openly gay U.S. ambassador when he was appointed by President Bill Clinton, said the project will make it easier for the next president to identify and consider talented individuals to serve his or her administration. “We also need to say to the next president, ‘We’re ready to serve and we’re ready to lead,’” Hormel said. “The next administration must know that we are concerned about being included, determined to contribute our talents, skills and insights, and eager to participate in the hard work of governing our country.”

Visit the Presidential Appointments Project Web site by clicking here.