Board President

All Pronouns

Michelle founded the BQC after retiring in Bellingham in 2021. They are a full time volunteer and retired educator who supports several nonprofit organizations in Bellingham.

Treasurer

She/Her

Constance joined the BQC board after serving on the PFLAG Bellingham WHATCOM board since 2019.

Not Yet Determined ←——

They/Them

Shawna is a seasoned healthcare leader with over 25 years of nursing experience across clinical and administrative roles, including hospice care, public health, and quality improvement. With a Master’s in Nursing Administration and a strong track record of community outreach and health equity advocacy, Shawna brings deep insight into inclusive and compassionate care. Their service in the U.S. Army and leadership in both governmental and non-profit sectors reflect a lifelong commitment to service and systemic impact. As a queer healthcare professional, Shawna is passionate about advancing affirming, community-centered health initiatives.

Board Member ←—-

He/They

Axel has been involved in LGBTQIA+ activism and community organizing, particularly in intersex, trans, non-binary, and bi+ communities, for nearly 15 years. He has been involved with interACT Advocates for Intersex Youth, one of the world’s only organizations dedicated to raising intersex visibility, empowering young intersex advocates, and promoting laws and policies that protect intersex youth, for the past 10 years including serving as a board member for the past 8 years. He has developed and facilitated trainings and workshops on sex characteristics, gender, sexuality, and disability at conferences and academic institutions for over a decade as well as has provided consultations on education policy, national and international reports, research studies, curriculum development, youth program strategies, comprehensive sexual health education programs, and sensitivity readings for individuals, schools, colleges and universities, non-profits, non-governmental organizations, intergovernmental organizations, and more. Axel works in higher education disability student services and supervises a disability cultural center.

Not sure what the official role is?

He/Him

Ken is a chef currently running a restaurant just south of Bellingham, bringing a lifetime of culinary experience and leadership to BQC. Outside of work, he enjoys a life of adventure with his partner of nearly five years. They love traveling, especially to locations from their favorite films and Banff, Alberta holds a special place in their hearts. He’s excited to contribute creativity, enthusiasm, and a collaborative spirit to the BQC Board.

Student Representative and Current Interim Secretary

She/It

Katrina is a current student at WWU, having received her bachelors degree in Theatre with a concentration in Education and two minors in Education Social Justice and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and she is currently in her Masters in teaching program. She has been on the board of BQC since November of 2023, when another board member saw her potential and she was able to get involved! She has always strived to help the community around her flourish and grow and this is one of the ways she can be hands on in the work.