FCN Board of Directors

There's always room for more!

 

Not the actual board pictured

Roger Smith – Co-Chair

I moved to Savannah in 2006, and volunteering quickly became a wonderful way for me to meet people and support our community. I previously served on the FCN Board in 2007 and 2008, but work, family, and life’s adventures pulled me away for a while. Now that I’m retired, I’m excited to have the time to get involved again. Savannah has welcomed so many new faces over the years, and I look forward to meeting all of you and helping preserve the purpose and spirit of FCN.

Sharon Poindexter – Co-Chair

Sharon Poindexter moved to Savannah in July 2023 with her life partner, Julia, and their miniature cockapoo, Zenzy. She had dreamed of spending her retirement years in Savannah since the late 1980s. 

After a 38‑year career in Corporate America as a Buyer, Warehouse Manager, and Director of Logistics Services, Sharon brings a wealth of professional experience and leadership to FCN. Staying active and engaged has always been part of her DNA.  In March she began serving on the City of Savannah’s PROUD Task Force, where she currently holds the position of Secretary. She was both honored and delighted to be asked to serve on FCN’s Board as Co‑Chair.  Sharon is passionate about connecting with the broader community, collaborating with the many LGBTQIA+ subgroups, and helping improve the visibility and perception of FCN. She is committed to being out, raising awareness, and contributing in meaningful ways to LGBTQIA+ and marginalized communities.

Jeff Martin – Treasurer

Jeff has called Savannah home since 2022. He currently serves as Vice Chair of the City of Savannah’s PROUD Task Force, where he works alongside city leaders and community partners to make Savannah a more inclusive and affirming place for LGBTQ residents and visitors alike. As Treasurer of First City Network, Jeff brings both a commitment to the organization’s mission and a belief that a thriving LGBTQ community is good for everyone. When he’s not doing community work, you can find him enjoying everything Savannah has to offer.

Kris Bazargan-Forward – Secretary

Kris (she/her) is a business analyst specializing in the implementation of complex software solutions. Originally from Georgia, she returned to the state and moved to Savannah in 2024. She has long been dedicated to supporting inclusive communities and has contributed to numerous nonprofits and community organizations through fundraising, event planning, and organizational leadership.

Kris has served with several impactful organizations, including America’s Finest City Softball League, an LGBTQ+ San Diego–based nonprofit; WILDCOAST, a bi-national environmental conservation nonprofit where she served as a board member; and SAVGALS, a Savannah-based organization that connects and uplifts the lesbian community. Through these experiences, she has developed strong skills in leadership, coordination, and program planning.

As a member of the First City Network board, Kris is excited to help expand programs and partnerships that strengthen connection and support for Savannah’s LGBTQ+ community. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, paddleboarding, running, theatre, art, and traveling.

Robert Ruth
Event Coordinator

I moved to Savannah by way of Chicago in 2019.  I’m looking forward to being the FCN Event Coordinator.  It will be my job to find fun events for our members to do.  I will be the Greeter and help oversee Membership Drives.  One of the best things about my position will be all the new members.

Nick Fossett
Member at Large

Originally from Douglas, Coffee County Georgia, I moved to Savannah three years ago after changing careers and to be closer to my family. For about 15 years I was a family therapist working for various non-profit agencies, counseling centers in Macon and Atlanta Ga and Eugene and Portland Oregon. I have worked in logistics for the past few years. I came out in college at Valdosta State University once I realized many of my friends were affirming. In my personal time I enjoy, cooking, thrift store shopping, riding bike trails and being around friends.

Jim Flesch
Member at Large

My enthusiasm for FCN’s future is immense, and I envision a vibrant, expanding community rooted in genuine connection.
We have an incredible opportunity to grow, not just in size, but in the depth of our friendships and collective impact. By fostering understanding and teamwork, we can build an even stronger, more supportive network for all.
Let’s solidify FCN as the essential beacon for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies: a steadfast source of support, a powerful voice for advocacy, and a welcoming space for celebration. Together, we will make FCN shine.

Juan Olmedo
Member at Large

Juan has been vacationing in Savannah for over 10 years, finally taking the plunge and moving with his husband in 2024. Juan’s career as a social worker has focused on issues of importance to LGBTQ folks, from coming out and working through internalized homophobia, to managing one’s HIV status and developing a queer identity. As a psychotherapist and an educator, he values working with diverse groups, including Trans people, Spanish-speaking Latinos and queer people finding their tribes. As a board member, he is looking forward to helping FCN focus on education and advocacy for our queer communities. 

Linda Harrington
Member at Large

Bio coming soon

Jerimiah Gregorio
Member at Large

Bio coming soon