John Alvarez Turner named Interim Director of the Pride Center

John Alvarez Turner, who currently serves as the assistant director of Multicultural Services and
Programs, has been named interim director of the Pride Center at the University of Georgia.

Alvarez Turner will facilitate the development, implementation and evaluation of educational,
social, support and resource programs for students regarding topics of sexual orientation and
gender identity and serve as an advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender students on
the University of Georgia campus and beyond. He will report to Associate Vice President for
Student Affairs Demetrius Smith and serve as a member of the leadership team for the Division
of Student Affairs.

“John’s experience in supporting students, organizations, and programming in MSP, as well as
his scholarly research, position him to successfully lead the Pride Center at this time,” said
Victor K. Wilson, vice president for student affairs. “I appreciate him taking on this key role in
student support on our campus.”

Alvarez Turner’s appointment began August 15.

In this role, Alvarez Turner will serve as a primary point of contact and support for students on
topics related to sexual orientation and gender identity, provide referral services for students
needing assistance from campus and off-campus resources, and act as a resource for every
member of the University of Georgia community – including parents, incoming students and
alumni seeking assistance.

He will lead the Pride Center staff in implementing educational awareness and learning
programs, as well as provide administrative support and leadership for many campus-wide
programming initiatives. He will also assist with advising Lambda Alliance and other student
organizations supported by the Center.

“John has been a valuable member of our team in supporting students and creating an inclusive
campus environment,” said Demetrius Smith, associate vice president for Student Affairs. “I
look forward to what I know will be a positive contribution in his role as interim director of the
Pride Center.”

Alvarez Turner brings a wide range of experience in student affairs and advocacy work. He has
previously served as interim director of MSP, and prior to his time at UGA, he was associate
director of the Multicultural Center and Hispanic Outreach at the University of Akron and served
as a commissioner on the Akron Civil Rights Commission.

Alvarez Turner earned his Associate of Arts in general education from Valencia Community
College in Orlando, Florida, a Bachelor of Arts in history from the University of Central Florida,
and a Master of Education in higher education administration from the University of Akron. He
is currently pursuing a doctorate in student affairs leadership from the University of Georgia.