Announcing the 2014 Leppen Leadership Award Winners!
Each year at Wonka Ball, About Face Theatre designates two recipients for our Leppen Leadership Award. Named in honor of Michael Leppen, a friend and generous benefactor of our company, the honor is bestowed upon an individual and an organization that has demonstrated extraordinary support for LGBTQA youth.
This year, we are pleased to announce that the
individual award goes to two inspiring individuals:
Patricia Ewert and Vernita Gray!
Both Pat and Vernita have been passionate advocates for gay rights as well as longtime supporters of About Face. In fact, they were attendees at last year’s Wonka Ball!
Additionally, Vernita was interviewed as a community leader by members of our youth theatre in 2004 and became a character in our play, On the Record.
Though Vernita lost her battle with cancer last month, we want to not only recognize Pat and Vernita’s contributions to the fight for marriage equality, but to honor their legacy as a couple.
The Leppen Leadership Award for an organization goes to
Chicago House’s TransLife Center!
Opened in July of 2013, the TransLife Center offers housing, employment and legal assistance, as well as medical services all under one roof!
About Face recognizes the importance of this program in Chicago, its impact within the LGBTQA community nationally, and its potential to assist trans youth who often need the exact services the TransLife Center provides.
Join us in celebrating the accomplishments of our Leppen Leadership Award winners at Wonka Ball on May 9! Awards will be given out during the VIP Reception.
