Christopher Wood: A Visionary Leader and Advocate for the LGBTQ+ Community

Christopher Wood is a dynamic entrepreneur, educator, and advocate who has dedicated his life to championing the rights and needs of the LGBTQ+ community. With a background that spans the realms of entrepreneurship, academia, and advocacy, Mr. Wood has made a significant impact in various sectors, from technology to social justice.

Born out of a profound personal experience, Christopher's passion for making a difference was ignited at the age of 25 when he faced a life-threatening situation involving the first suicide bomber in the US. This harrowing event served as a stark reminder of the brevity of life, propelling him to pursue his dreams with unwavering determination.

Over the years, Christopher has founded three non-profits dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community and a B2B and B2C company. He has also shared his expertise as an adjunct professor, focusing on entrepreneurship, and has been a sought-after speaker at over 100 events in the past decade.

Currently, Mr. Wood holds esteemed positions as the Executive Director & Co-Founder of LGBT Tech, the Chief Operating Officer of Redwood & Co, and the Founder and past President of the Shenandoah LGBTQ Center. His leadership at LGBT Tech has been instrumental in advocating for LGBTQ+ individuals in the realm of technology and policy. Under his guidance, the organization has collaborated with top-tier tech companies, social media platforms, and non-profits. They have also engaged with key government agencies, including the White House and the Federal Communications Commission.

In 2013, Christopher spearheaded the launch of the LGBT Tech, a pioneering organization that delves into research at the crossroads of LGBTQ+ communities and technology. His commitment to diversity and digital empowerment was further recognized when he was appointed to three FCC (Federal Communications Commission) Advisory Committees, totaling six years of service. During his latest appointment, he served as Working Group Chair of the Diversity & Equity working group.

Apart from his advocacy in the tech world, Christopher, alongside his husband, ventured into the business realm with Redwood & Co. This venture blossomed from a modest retail outlet to an international enterprise specializing in home fragrances, bath & body products, and home décor.

Recognizing a gap in LGBTQ+ services in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, Christopher founded the Shenandoah LGBTQ Center and Staunton Pride in 2018. This initiative has since grown exponentially, offering invaluable support to the LGBTQ+ community across the region.

Christopher's prior roles include consulting for national LGBT organizations, particularly in transgender economic development programs, and working at Discovery Communications, where he crafted strategic marketing campaigns targeting rural and LGBT communities.

In addition to his professional milestones, Christopher cherishes his journey as a foster-to-adopt parent, building a loving family with his husband. This personal achievement stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to creating a world where love, acceptance, and understanding reign supreme.

Recent notable accolades and achievements include the FOSI (Family Online Safety Institute) Award for Outstanding Achievement in 2015, the launch of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) at the White House with Vice President Harris in 2022 and earning a Certificate of Achievement in the New Strategies Program at Georgetown University McDonough School of Business in 2023.

In every endeavor, Christopher Wood exemplifies the spirit of resilience, innovation, and compassion, making him a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless individuals across the globe.