Lexington Pride Center Recognizes And Thanks Wanda McCants

The Lexington Pride Center would like to recognize and thank outgoing board member Wanda McCants for her incredible service. Wanda first joined the board in 2008 and closed out her time with the organization on June 30, 2026, after 18 years.

A native of Alabama, Wanda had her first interactions with the Lexington Pride Center during her second year as a graduate student at the University of Kentucky. Her research team went to ask young queer kids at a meeting at the Pride Center what they’d want their parents to know about coming out. “It was such a supportive vibe for these younger than me kids felt so comfortable talking about being LGBTQ,” Wanda said, reflecting on the research project. “I came into my queerness in Alabama, and moving to Kentucky felt like a big shift. I had a supportive gay community in college, but felt lost when I moved to Kentucky. Joining the Pride Center for events and groups felt like I had a sense of community again and I made many friends during that time. Eventually, I decided to join the board to be involved and make a difference where I could in this community. “

When reflecting on her time with the organization, Wanda said she learned so much about people by being a part of the board. “Seeing the good, the bad, the indifferent, the ugly have all been a part of my experience. Because of that, I leaned really hard into being approachable and a listener,” said Wanda. One of the tasks Wanda took on as a board member was creating and improving connections between the Pride Center and the community. These connections are vital for the organization and allow space for new programs, new partnerships, and new ideas to take hold. “I enjoy talking to people and found it was simple to just ask how the Center was viewed and how we could improve it. I’m proud of being a part of the image change the Center has experienced. It’s shiny, got its chipped marks, seen some big shifts and still stands as a light for so many.”

Wanda also recognized the incredible growth the organization has seen in her time on the board. During her time, the organization started planning the annual Pride Festival, transitioned from volunteer led to staff led, applied for and received multiple grants, started a food pantry program, and underwent a name change and rebrand in 2021. “I’m proud of the progress the Pride Center has made over the last decade and a half. It’s had its growing pains, like any other nonprofit, and it’s been able to dust itself off and keep moving forward.” An unexpected joy of being on the board was guiding the creation of strategic plans and policies that served as the foundation for the continued growth of the Pride Center. “Being a part of creating a new plan and introducing new policies were apparently my jam!”

Through her time with the organization, Wanda was also able to use her background as a therapist to support community members. “People have big feelings about big things. They need to be heard and to see change when it’s relevant. I learned how to have a broader perspective as well as challenge the status quo. It was valuable being heard as the only Black queer voice in the room for many years, even if a different decision was made. As a therapist, we encourage change over time. I’ve been most proud of being a part of changes that needed to happen when it was time.”

When asked about the legacy she is leaving behind, Wanda said she hopes the organization will remain flexible and lean into growth in the future while also working hand-in-hand with the community. “Change is scary and necessary. When we build things, we can find a way to give a warm hand off to someone else who is capable and energetic and be proud of what comes from that. I know how hard that was over time.” Wanda also hopes the Pride Center remains a space where people can come together, find their voice, and work together to solve problems. “I hope the Center is a place for people to express their frustrations and also be a realistic part of the solution. That’s what builds a stronger community.” Finally, Wanda hopes the Pride Center continues adapting and supporting the community. “I wish for the Center to be open to community feedback, keep shining brightly to bring joy to anyone who comes through the door, and keep building to better heights.”

Looking forward, Wanda is excited to take a rest from volunteering and focusing on her “papaw years.” Wanda plans to pick up woodworking and spend more time golfing with her buddies. But, the Pride Center will remain an important part of her life in Lexington. “I hope to see friends from the board around the bend, at a drag show, or brunch, or a general hang out.”

Thank you again, Wanda, for your incredible 18 years of service to the Lexington Pride Center.