November 6, 2017
Dear NGLCC Community:
Our hearts go out to everyone at the Austin Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (AGLCC) following the loss of former President and CEO, Ceci Gratias.
To know Ceci was to be inspired by her passion, positivity, and commitment to helping the community. Ceci’s tireless dedication to the LGBT business community of Austin has helped grow the AGLCC into a regional powerhouse, and made Ceci one of the most visible and vocal champions for equality and opportunity.
Ceci spent more than a decade as a volunteer with the AGLCC before becoming its first full-time leader. In her time there, she galvanized Austin to stand in solidarity not just with the LGBT community, but with people of color, women, Asian Americans, persons with disabilities, and more.
Ceci’s intersectionality was a powerful reminder that we are all connected in the great work of supporting diverse communities. She was always willing to coach and mentor fellow leaders in the community, helping ensure the foundations she helped lay in the community thrive for years to come. Ceci also served as a past Regional Chair of NGLCC’s Affiliate Chambers Council for the then Mountain and Southwest Region.
We look forward to remembering Ceci’s legacy at the upcoming 2017 NGLCC National Dinner. Ceci touched the lives of countless members of the NGLCC family, and will always be remembered for the energy and joy she brought to every gathering of our community.
Rest in power, Ceci. The NGLCC and the entire LGBT community are stronger because of your leadership.
In solidarity,
Justin G. Nelson, Co-Founder & President
Chance E. Mitchell, Co-Founder & CEO
Sam McClure, SVP, Affiliate Relations & External Affairs
