Are you passionate about LGBTQ+ literature and eager to make a lasting impact? Lambda Literary, the leading nonprofit championing LGBTQ+ authors and storytelling, is seeking engaged, responsive, and mission-committed individuals to join our Board of Trustees.
Who We’re Looking For
We are committed to building a Board that reflects the full diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. We strongly encourage applications from BIPOC, trans, nonbinary, and disabled candidates.
We are especially seeking professionals with expertise in:
- Publishing & Literary Networks – Strong connections in publishing, bookselling, and literary media.
- Fundraising & Philanthropy – Experience in nonprofit development, donor engagement, and sponsorships (volunteer or professional).
- Arts & Culture Funding – Connections to major foundations, philanthropists, and arts organizations.
- Legal & Financial Leadership – Attorneys, accountants, and financial professionals.
- Entrepreneurship in Publishing & Media – Founders of book-related or publishing related businesses or literary ventures.
In addition to professional expertise, we value lived experiences that reflect the diverse voices of LGBTQ+ authors, publishers, booksellers, and readers. Your perspective and passion will help Lambda Literary continue its vital work uplifting queer storytelling.
Expectations for engaged, responsive, and mission-committed Board members include:
- Serve a two-year renewable term (up to three terms).
- Contribute a minimum of $3,000 annually through personal giving or fundraising.
- Active participation in bi-monthly Board meetings and serve on at least one committee.
- Responsive to Board and staff communications.
- Help grow Lambda’s visibility, impact, and sustainability.
- Advocate for LGBTQ+ literature and amplify Lambda’s mission.
Application Process & Timeline
Apply here: Lambda Literary Board Application
Application Deadline: April 30, 2025
Candidates will be asked to complete a four-part onboarding session before being appointed to the Board. To ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate, each session will be offered twice and will also be available as a recording.
Recruitment & Onboarding Timeline
- March 27: Public announcement and outreach begins
- April 1–25: Applications open and candidate outreach
- May and June: Four-session onboarding
- Governance: Wednesday May 7 at 5:30 PM ET or at 8:30 PM
- Programs: Wednesday May 21 at 5:30 PM ET or at 8:30 PM
- Fundraising: Wednesday June 4 at 5:30 PM ET or at 8:30 PM
- Finance: Wednesday June 18 at 5:30 PM ET or at 8:30 PM
- June: Candidate interviews
- June Board Meeting: Vote on new Board members
For questions, please contact dgoldenburg@lambdaliterary.org
About Lambda
Lambda Literary champions LGBTQ+ books and authors to preserve our legacies, celebrate our stories, and affirm our lives. As the premier national nonprofit dedicated to LGBTQ+ literature, Lambda nurtures and advocates for queer literary voices at every stage of their careers.
The organization is powered by a dedicated team of 9 staff members and governed by a national Board of 7 trustees. Together, they steward Lambda’s core programs, which include:
- Writers in Schools – Connecting LGBTQ+ authors with K-12 classrooms to inspire young readers and writers.
- The Lambda Literary Awards – Honoring excellence in LGBTQ+ literature across genres.
- Writers Retreat for Emerging LGBTQ Voices – A retreat offering intensive workshops and mentorship to early-career LGBTQ+ writers.
Lambda is a vital force in shaping the future of LGBTQ+ storytelling—bold, inclusive, and unapologetically queer.
