Meet The Board

 Dave, aka "Brother Bear," finds leadership within the LGBTQ+ community deeply rewarding and is committed to expanding the impact of the Northeast Ursamen. Now in his third term as President, he leads initiatives to create safe, inclusive spaces that foster community connections and leadership growth. With a strong dedication to service, Dave also serves as secretary on the board of Q Plus, where he advocates for LGBTQ+ youth and supports the organization’s mission to prioritize their empowerment and well-being.  

"Hi!  I’m Matt and am proud to serve on the board as your VP. My focus is on member engagement and ensuring that our activities and operations bring members together in meaningful ways. I’m especially passionate about supporting the bear community and believe that everyone deserves to feel great about who they are, have agency to live life on their own terms, and love whoever they choose. Being part of this club gives me the chance to help create and maintain welcoming, affirming, positive, and inclusive spaces where our local bear community can connect, celebrate, and simply be themselves -- while having a lot of fun doing it!" - Matt

Chris Coyne (he/him), the current reigning Connecticut Bear (2024) and member of the Northeast Ursamen. Just a fuzzy, nerdy, goofball with a proclivity for giving bear hugs. He’s an avid gamer, both board and video game. Being healthcare worker himself (RN) he’s spending his title year raising money for his local LGBTQIA+ health center Circle Care by hosting events all around Connecticut.

Barry is a proud board member of the Ursamen, and does his best to bring a fresh perspective and passion to working towards the group's mission. With a deep commitment to inclusivity and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community, Barry is focused on helping expand the organization's impact, particularly through strategic fundraising efforts and financial stewardship. 

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In addition to financial oversight, Barry is dedicated to helping the group continue to grow, strengthen its connections, and reach new individuals who can benefit from a safe space to be themselves.

Isaac combines creativity and organization to plan engaging events that align with the Ursamen’s mission of creating safe, welcoming spaces for Bears and admirers to socialize, support one another, and serve the community. From signature events like Spooky Bear and Out of Hibernation to initiatives such as Bears Eat the World and Pride tabling, Isaac strives to ensure our gatherings reflect the values of inclusivity, community, and celebration.

His efforts not only bring people together but also support the NE Ursamen’s mission as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to building a safe and supportive space for the Bear community and its allies. Isaac is committed to enhancing the NE Ursamen’s impact and continuing its legacy as a vital part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

With degrees in English and Journalism, Ed worked as a journalist for almost a decade before moving into the private sector as a Media Coordinator and Recruitment Manager. Upon joining the Ursamen he sought to put his talents to work as a means to help the group continue its mission of building safe and exclusive spaces for all. 

"I needed a place to find a sense of community. I joined the Ursamen and immediately felt welcomed and included. It's an honor to have the chance to put my skills to use to bring others that same sense of belonging." - Ed

Randy became a member of the club in 1996 when our monthly board meetings were held at Nick’s Bar in Hartford. It was a perfect arrangement—conduct the meeting in the back, and then move to the front for a few drinks afterward.

Randy's journey on the board began as the Potluck Coordinator. Over the years, he has held various roles including Member At Large, Secretary, Treasurer, Webmaster, and Vice President. Currently, he serves again as Member At Large.

Randy has thoroughly enjoyed his time on the board and witnessing the club's growth over the past 25 years. His historical insights continue to be valuable as we move forward.

In his professional career, Randy has been in the IT field since the mid-70s. He started with IBM Mainframes before transitioning to Desktops and Laptops. He has worked for Security Insurance, Combustion Engineering, SNET/AT&T, and IBM. After retiring in 2021, he now works part-time at Family Dollar.

Michael was Connecticut Bear 2022 - Starheart Bear and currently serves on the Board of Directors as Secretary.

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He has been actively involved with the communities of Connecticut as an advocate for the LGBTQIA community.

Is the Captain of the Hartford Harlettes, a unique Pom-Pom Squad who provide entertainment throughout New England shaking their poms for great causes

A member of the Imperial Sovereign Court of All Connecticut, many may have seen his alter-ego Morgana deLuxe out and about performing to help raise funds for various organizations.

Being an elder member of the Community he is eager to help the Ursamen bring fun and raise awareness of the Bear Community.