Judy Shepard is a prominent LGBT-rights activist and the Executive Director and Board President of the Matthew Shepard Foundation. Following the tragic murder of her son, Matthew, in 1998, Judy transformed her grief into a powerful advocacy platform aimed at promoting social justice and equality for the LGBTQ+ community. Under her leadership, the Foundation has become a beacon of hope, working tirelessly to eliminate hate crimes and foster diversity awareness across the nation.

As the founding president of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, Judy played a pivotal role in shaping its mission and vision. From 1999 to 2009, she served as the first executive director, during which time she spearheaded numerous initiatives that educated communities about the importance of acceptance and understanding. Her efforts have led to significant outreach programs that engage individuals and organizations in meaningful conversations about diversity and inclusion.

Judy is also a sought-after speaker, traveling extensively to share her story and inspire others to take action against hate and discrimination. Her compelling narrative, rooted in personal experience, resonates with audiences and encourages them to contribute to a more inclusive society. In 2009, she authored the memoir “The Meaning of Matthew,” which chronicles her family’s journey through tragedy and their ongoing commitment to civil rights.

With a background in education, Judy holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Secondary Education from the University of Wyoming. Her dedication to advocacy continues to make a profound impact, as she inspires countless individuals to embrace diversity and champion equality for all.