Brandon Lewis

Brandon Lewis's journey began in Piper, Kansas, a small town just outside Kansas City. His academic pursuits took him to Manhattan, Kansas, where he attended Kansas State University. There, he earned degrees in Psychological Sciences, Business Administration, and Leadership Studies. It was also during this time that he met his wife, Shanon. After college, the couple moved to St. Joseph to embark on their professional careers.

Professionally, Brandon works as a Production Control Supervisor. His role involves ensuring that the plant's production meets customer demand.

Brandon's passion for community involvement was ignited when he helped start The Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival in St. Joe. This experience fueled his desire to support other organizations he felt passionate about, leading him to join St. Joe Pride. He has been with St. Joe Pride for about a year and a half, serving as both the Finance Director and Vendor Coordinator. In these roles, he manages the organization's budget and oversees all vendor-related activities at the annual Pride Festival.

In addition to his work with St. Joe Pride, Brandon is one of the founders and the current Director of The Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival. This annual event provides a fun and engaging experience for families in St. Joe, attracting several thousand attendees each year. One of Brandon's favorite aspects of community involvement is hearing from patrons who stop him around town to share how much they enjoy the events he helps organize. These moments reinforce his dedication to his community work.

Brandon's commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy stems from his belief in the right for all individuals to live and love freely. As a cisgender white male, he feels a responsibility to stand up for those around him and contribute to creating a more inclusive world. He is particularly proud of his contributions to the expansion and growth of the St. Joe Pride Festival, enhancing its overall benefit to the local community. Looking ahead, Brandon hopes to increase the number of board members and continue improving the impact of St. Joe Pride's work.

Outside his professional and community roles, Brandon enjoys spending time with his wife and their cat, Gally, watching movies. He humorously attributes his ability to balance personal life and community involvement to "less sleep." Brandon is inspired by the devotion and care shown by his fellow board members. He is motivated by the ongoing struggle of those around him to fit in and believes everyone should feel valued and loved.

Brandon has been happily married to his wife, Shanon, for nine years. They have chosen to be child-free and enjoy the company of their spoiled cat, Gally. Brandon is also an uncle to three wonderful kids and is committed to fighting for a world where they can grow up feeling valued and loved.