NGPA announces new board members for 2025 and bids farewell to long-serving leaders

The National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA) is excited to announce the election of new members to its Board of Directors following the 2024 Annual Board meeting held in mid-August.

The National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA) is excited to announce the election of new members to its Board of Directors following the 2024 Annual Board meeting held in mid-August. This year’s elections continue to reflect NGPA’s commitment to fostering diverse perspectives and experiences in its leadership team, further advancing the organization's mission of inclusion in the aviation industry.

NGPA Executive Director, Justin Ellixson-Andrews, expressed, “These newly elected directors bring a wealth of knowledge and passion that will strengthen our efforts to support LGBTQ+ aviation professionals. Their dedication and fresh insights will help guide us toward a more inclusive and connected aviation community.”

The following new directors have been elected:

• Dominic Chevalier – Dominic is a Republic Airways Captain with eight years of volunteer experience at NGPA, bringing a passion for aviation and events to the board.

• James Shafer – James is a United Airlines Captain with a career that began as a flight attendant, transitioning to pilot roles at multiple airlines, and has been an active NGPA member since 2009.

• Jeff Montgomery – Jeff is a Boeing 777 Captain for United Airlines with a background as a Pan Am pilot, US Air Force Air Traffic Controller, and radio broadcasting business owner, bringing diverse aviation and business experience to the NGPA board.

• Kevin Horan – Kevin is an aviation and HR executive with nearly 40 years of industry experience, having served in leadership roles at JSX, Pan Am, America West, and other airlines, and currently supports various non-profits, including NGPA.

Additionally, current director’s Charlie Williams, Dristin Rose, and Ryan Lynch have been re-elected to another three-year term, further ensuring continuity within the Board.

• Charlie Williams - Charlie is a recent UND graduate and former NGPA University Chapter President with aspirations in aviation safety, operations, and DEI, actively supporting future LGBTQ+ aviators.

• Dristin Rose - Dristin is an Envoy Air First Officer, Airbus simulator instructor, coffee business owner, and NGPA leader who founded the SIUC university chapter and serves on the Governance Committee.

• Ryan Lynch - Ryan is a Republic Airways Captain and nonprofit leader with over 23 years of experience in aviation training, education, and youth mentorship, as well as owning aviation-themed restaurants.

As part of the ongoing evolution of the NGPA, we would like to acknowledge and express our heartfelt gratitude to Scott Konzem, Alan Miles, and Andi Sue Phillips who will be departing the Board of Directors after this year. Scott, Andi Sue, and Alan have been exceptional leaders, and their contributions will continue to resonate throughout NGPA’s work for years to come.

Outgoing Chair Scott Konzem shared, “It has been an incredible honor to serve on the NGPA Board during such a transformative time for the organization. I am thrilled to see such talented and passionate individuals stepping into leadership roles, and I know that the organization will continue to flourish under their guidance. The future of NGPA is bright, and I am grateful to have been a part of this journey.”

The Board also elected the following officers for the 2025 term:

• Chair: Doug Carr

• Vice Chair: Ryan Davis

• Secretary: Charlie Williams

• Treasurer: Amber Stevenson

• Education Fund: Sydney Faruzzi

Founded in 1990, NGPA is an international organization dedicated to building, supporting, and uniting the LGBTQ+ aviation community. Through education, outreach, and social events, NGPA promotes equality, safety, and professional development for LGBTQ+ aviation professionals worldwide.