Nation’s Largest LGBTQ+ K–12 Education Advocacy Organization Rebrands From GLSEN to Glisten

NEW YORK (February 6, 2026) — Today, GLSEN, the non-profit organization advocating for LGBTQ+ youth in K-12 education, announced it has rebranded as Glisten. The new name reflects the organization’s evolving commitment to visibility, clarity, and support for LGBTQ+ youth nationwide, moving away from its antiquated acronym and moving towards an accurate reflection of its mission to empower LGBTQ+ youth and helping them be their true selves.

“This is a year for transformation—not just for the Glisten team as individuals, but as an organization. This is not just a name change—it’s a name evolution,” says Chief Executive Officer Melanie Willingham-Jaggers. “Much like the LGBTQ+ community, Glisten isn’t solely defined by the letters that represent the acronym. The brand name Glisten acts as a beacon for all LGBTQ+ youth, providing a shining, visible lifeline in schools and creating spaces where everyone can feel safe being visibly who they are.”

“Today, organizations like ours are facing unprecedented challenges at the local, state, and federal levels. We cannot step back or give up in the face of erasure from anyone. It is more critical than ever for us to double down on our mission for all LGBTQ+ youth across the nation and continue to be visible,” continues Willingham-Jaggers.

Since the organization was founded in 1990, Glisten has represented the network of teachers and educators who first took action in support of their LGBTQ+ students, inspired by the boldness and bravery of students coming out despite facing bullying and discrimination these educators witnessed. Over 30 years later, Glisten has grown to represent 1.5 million youth, families, educators, and advocates working to create safe schools nationwide. Glisten has expanded its reach beyond brick and mortar school buildings, creating ways for youth, families, and allies to stay connected to a supportive community that understands them.

Partnering with Madeo, an independent brand and web agency with a focus on social impact, Glisten also revamped its logo and website, making the latter more accessible to users. While creating the logo, Madeo surveyed LGBTQ+ youth, allies, educators, and advocates, leading to the new visual identity.

“The new logo takes inspiration from the deep connection and belonging that drives the Glisten community, with the letters joining together and expressing individual colors through that connection,” says Madeo’s Creative Director Ramy Nagy. “The moving lines express the connections we create when we come together as a diverse community to advocate for each other. Vibrant colors are used in unexpected ways, creating a flexible and clear identity that enables us to celebrate the wins, face the challenges, and advocate for a better future.”

Alongside the rebrand, Glisten announced several leadership updates, including the promotion of Melanie Willingham-Jaggers from Executive Director to Chief Executive Officer, David Eng-Chernack from Deputy Executive Director for Communications and Marketing to Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, and Brigid Palcic from Deputy Executive Director for Development to Chief Development Officer. The organization also announced hiring Meghan Prichard as the new Chief Operating Officer to support its expanded mission and national reach.

The redesigned website improves access to local chapters, GSAs, and research resources, supporting Glisten’s continued work to advance justice and safety in K–12 schools nationwide. Learn more at  www.glisten.org.

ABOUT GLISTEN

Glisten (previously GLSEN), the nation’s largest advocate for LGBTQ+ issues in K-12 education, has been dedicated to establishing inclusive schools and learning environments for over 35 years. Amidst increasing threats against LGBTQ+ youth nationwide, Glisten actively addresses harassment and discrimination by empowering educators, advocating for policy changes, and combating book bans.