Jenn’s engagement in issues impacting the lives of transgender and otherwise gender diverse children and youth dates back to her own experiences as a transgender child. She has been involved in nonprofit education and advocacy work specific to gender identity and expression for more than 35 years. Her areas of expertise include professional development education on historical contexts of trans-spectrum identity and expression, early-childhood gender identity development, diversity, equity and inclusion in PK-12 to post-graduate educational environments and socio-political dynamics of gender diversity in urban and rural communities.
Kelly Novahom, Program Manager | she/her
Kelly has over 7 years of experience working in educational leadership at higher education institutions in California and Oregon. Kelly oversees TransActive’s services, and initiatives, and volunteer coordination. Kelly is passionate about providing all the support necessary for counselors and educators to do their best work in support of trans and gender diverse youth, and is also looking to improve services for gender diverse BIPOC youth. She holds a BA in Comparative Literature and European Studies from University of California, Irvine and an MA from Portland State University in Educational Leadership and Policy with a focus on Postsecondary, Adult & Continuing Education. Kelly enjoys spending time outdoors, finding new bars/restaurants to obsess over, and producing/attending arts & cultural events in the Portland community.
Cher Noonan, Youth & Family Groups Coordinator | they/them/she
Cher has spent 10+ years working with transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive youth; supporting and advocating for their healthy personal, educational, social development, and inclusion in all aspects of family and public life. Cher has developed curriculum for interns, volunteers, and support groups, managed both youth and adult volunteer group support facilitators, provided them with tools and resources to help increase youth and family access to engaging, culturally appropriate youth engagement activities, peer-to-peer support, and age-appropriate healthcare. They hold a Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus in Human Resources, as well as hands-on experience working with nonprofit organizations in event planning, fundraising, grant writing, and board service. Cher enjoys camping and hiking in the Pacific Northwest, stimulating conversation with friends and colleagues, and spending time with their life partner.
Cherise Basques, Support Group Facilitator | she/her
Cherise Basques is the parent of a transgender child. She volunteers with TransActive by helping to facilitate the Butterflies and Parent Support Groups. Cherise is also a pediatric occupational therapist. She is passionate about providing services and support to those who are transgender or gender diverse and also have special needs such as autism or ADHD.
