Essie Gonzsen is the Executive Director of Equality Utah, where she leads the organization’s statewide work to advance equality and build a Utah where LGBTQ people and their families can thrive. A former special education teacher, Essie brings a background in education, community engagement, and coalition-building to her leadership.
Before becoming Executive Director, Essie spent four years leading Equality Utah’s work in Southern Utah and helped oversee its College Ambassador Program, mentoring emerging leaders across the state. She holds a Master’s degree in Special Education from the University of Utah and is a certified trainer in Moral Courage and Cultural Translation, frameworks focused on navigating differences and building common ground.
Essie is also a public speaker whose TEDx St. George talk, “Anxiety as an Asset,” explores vulnerability, courage, and leadership. Her work is grounded in the belief that lasting progress is built through relationships, shared values, and a willingness to find a way forward together.