GRDC Member News and Kudos

Bausch & Lomb Launches "The Diversity Network Forum"
Bausch & Lomb has implemented a program for all managers entitled "The Diversity Network Forum." The objective of this program is to introduce B&L managers to the seven employee networks, discuss the business case for networks and how managers can leverage the networks in their work. Also, there is discussion regarding the linkage of business and the progress to diversity.

The panel consists of representation from all of B&L's employee nework groups, including the representation of: African Americans, Asia Pacific, Gay & Lesbian, Latino, South Asia, Women and Executive Women. The program is held quarterly and the goal is to have all of B&L Rochester managers attend by the end of 2003.

Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley Names New Executive Director
New Director to Work to Build Coalitions -- Brings History of Volunteer Involvement in Politics and Advocacy Groups

The board of directors of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley announces the appointment of Charles G. (Chuck) Bowen as Executive Director. Bowen will lead the non-profit agency that has served the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community of Rochester since 1973 to the next level of growth and achievement.

Board President William Kelly said, "At a young age Chuck decided that he wanted to be governor of South Carolina, his home state. He dedicated himself to that goal, becoming an Eagle Scout along the way. One obstacle stood in his way preventing him from pursuing his goal. He is a gay man. So he dedicated himself to a new mission of eradicating homophobia and so that future LGBT generations in our country could attain their goals."

Bowen comes to Rochester from Columbia, South Carolina, where he was an entrepreneur and CEO, and owned several businesses. He was previously Executive Director of the South Carolina Association for the Handicapped and Disabled, and also of the South Carolina Dental Association.

A graduate of the University of South Carolina, with a degree in communications, Bowen has served as a volunteer community leader active in politics, business, AIDS organizations and advocacy groups. He was on the Board of Directors of the South Carolina Gay and Lesbian Pride Movement; a member of the state Gay and Lesbian Business Guild; chair of the Richland County, South Carolina Board of Health and an advisor to the South Carolina steering committee of the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund.

Active in politics, Bowen was advisor to the campaign of Charlie Smith, the first openly gay candidate to run for the South Carolina House of Representatives. When Jim Hodges successfully ran for governor of the state, Bowen advised him on issues concerning the LGBT community.

Bowen said, "I am excited about the work that has been done by the GAGV in its 30-year history. I look forward to working towards the Alliance's mission of eradicating homophobia so that all of us can be accepted with full equality."

Said Kelly, "The Board of Directors sees that Mr. Bowen will bring new skills, talent and a passion to the job of Executive Director, as the GAGV continues to advocate, educate and celebrate in this, our 30th anniversary year."