SEATTLE — As Seattle Out & Proud has evolved into a year-round advocacy organization, its board has selected Krystal Marx as its first executive director.

Marx is taking the not-for-profit organization’s first paid staff position in its 14-year history. In recent years, the group (commonly known as Seattle Pride) has evolved into a year-round effort — working to create unity, honor diversity and achieve equal human rights for Seattle’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community.

Marx grew up in Aberdeen and Bellevue before moving to Burien, where she currently serves as a City Council member. Previously, she has served in leadership roles with the Washington State Democrats and NAMI Washington, and as a contracted program facilitator for She Should Run.

In her new role, Marx will be responsible for advancing Seattle Pride’s mission, expanding community relationships, and providing oversight support for the organization’s signature events: the Seattle Pride Parade and Volunteer Park Pride Festival, which combined attract more than 400,000 people each year.

She will also work with Seattle Pride’s volunteer board to steward the organization’s grants and sponsorships in support of community-based LGBTQIA+ organizations, to promote awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues, and to advocate for equal human rights for all.

“Through her actions and words, Krystal shows what it is to be a champion for people and strong communities,” said Joe McDermott, a King County County Council member. “Krystal is a thoughtful, creative leader with the ability to see and act on opportunities to do better. I’ve seen this demonstrated time and time again on issues that come before the King County Board of Health, where we both serve as members.”

Marx will report directly to the Seattle Pride board, led by newly elected president Alex Ruble. The organization has an annual budget of approximately $1.1 million and relies on support from its hundreds of sponsors, community partners and volunteers.

“Krystal has been a fantastic community leader, speaking out for the needs of queer people across the region and most especially as a strong voice for the bi community,” said Matt Landers, director of public policy and government affairs for the Greater Seattle Business Association. “I and everyone at GSBA are excited to see her take the helm of one of the biggest Pride celebrations in the country, and look forward to continuing our long and close partnership with Seattle Out & Proud.”

Marx, who identifies as bisexual, and her husband — a U.S. Army combat veteran — reside in Burien with their blended family of two boys and two girls.