About Us
New Bern Pride is a community-based, volunteer-run organization dedicated to providing visibility, support, and connection for LGBTQIA+ people throughout New Bern and Eastern North Carolina. We are structured as a board-governed 501(c)(3) nonprofit with transparent operations, shared leadership, and a commitment to accountability.
Meet the Team
In accordance with our bylaws, our board is made up of officers, at-large board members, and a non-voting executive director.
President
Bell
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Executive Director
Lisa Fay
Treasurer/Secretary
Robert
At-Large/Resources
Tyler
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At-Large
Jenna
At-Large
Katie
At-Large
Jonathan
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At-Large
Rebekah
Our Pillars
These initiatives allow us to help LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies in Eastern North Carolina find community, connection, and support.
Community
Fostering community through events like nature hikes, and game nights, and Pride Prom, we bring people together through gatherings that celebrate diversity and create lasting connections.
Connection
Providing safe and confidential spaces tailored to the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community to share experiences, seek guidance, and build a sense of belonging.
Support
Empowering growth by partnering with businesses, offering resources and maintaining a business directory that champions safe spaces. We seek to create inclusive environments.
It started with a birthday party....
It started with David Bucksot’s prom-themed birthday party. That night, he watched his friends experience a prom as their true selves, some for the first time. David knew this kind of celebration shouldn’t be limited to a private gathering. With the help of friends, he set out to share that magic with the wider New Bern community, and the first New Bern Pride Prom was born.
For the first two years, 2022 and 2023, Pride Prom was organized by groups who simply wanted the LGBTQIA+ community to have a Prom experience. When 1ENC Pride disbanded in 2023, that left a vacancy that needed to be filled.
By the end of 2023, New Bern Pride was born. Starting over with nothing, a generous donation by a local business paid the 501(c)(3) nonprofit filing fees. We drew up bylaws, established a mission statement and pillars, and dove headfirst into fundraising for the 2024 Pride Prom. Since then, we have worked hard to be a visible LGBTQIA+ presence in New Bern year-round, with our Safe Space program, community events, and, of course, Pride Prom.
