Lesbian
Trans
People of Color
Drag Queen/King
After more than a decade of transformative leadership, Chris Bartlett is stepping down as the executive director of the William Way LGBT Community Center. His departure marks the end of an era for Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ community, as Bartlett has played a pivotal role in expanding, revitalizing, and strengthening the center.
As we say goodbye to his leadership, Bartlett has shared his next steps: a return to his passion for queer history and archives—and an exciting new chapter in his education.
So what does this transition mean for William Way? And what can we expect from Bartlett as he embarks on his next journey?
His activism began during the HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 1990s, when he worked tirelessly to support those affected by the epidemic. He became a leading voice in HIV/AIDS education, research, and advocacy, collaborating with organizations such as the Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) and the AIDS Library of Philadelphia.
Bartlett has also been deeply committed to documenting and preserving LGBTQ+ history. Through his work with oral history projects and digital archives, he has helped ensure that the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ elders and activists are not lost to time.
In 2011, he took on one of his most influential roles: executive director of the William Way LGBT Community Center.
Some of his major accomplishments include:
✅ Expanding Services – Bartlett led the expansion of the center’s support groups, senior programs, and arts initiatives, making it a home for people across generations.
✅ Revitalizing the Space – He oversaw major renovations and upgrades, ensuring that William Way remained welcoming, accessible, and inclusive.
✅ Advancing Racial and Gender Equity – Under his leadership, the center prioritized diversity by increasing support for BIPOC and transgender individuals.
✅ Strengthening LGBTQ+ Advocacy – Bartlett worked with local and national organizations to push for LGBTQ+ rights, public health initiatives, and community empowerment.
His tenure solidified William Way’s reputation as a leading LGBTQ+ institution in Philadelphia, and his impact will be felt for years to come.
His departure raises big questions:
– Who will take the reins and continue his vision of inclusion and growth?
– How will the center evolve in a post-Bartlett era?
– What role will the community play in shaping William Way’s future?
While transitions like this can be challenging, one thing is certain: Bartlett leaves the center stronger than ever. His work has built a foundation for the next generation of leaders to carry the torch.
His decision to continue his education reflects his lifelong commitment to learning, preserving history, and sharing LGBTQ+ stories. Bartlett has already contributed so much to LGBTQ+ historical research, and his next chapter will allow him to dive even deeper.
While we don’t yet know exactly where his studies will take him, one thing is clear: his work is far from over. The community can expect to see him continue writing, researching, and advocating for LGBTQ+ visibility and historical preservation.
Thank you, Chris.
For over a decade, you have given your heart, time, and expertise to make William Way—and Philadelphia—a better place for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Your leadership has uplifted so many, and while we will miss seeing you at the helm of William Way, we can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.
🌈 Donate to William Way to keep its programs strong.
🌈 Volunteer to support LGBTQ+ initiatives in Philadelphia.
🌈 Engage in LGBTQ+ history—read, document, and share stories.
🌈 Send a message of thanks to Bartlett for his years of service.
The Philadelphia LGBTQ+ community will forever be shaped by Bartlett’s leadership. As he steps into this new chapter, we honor the impact he has made and the legacy he leaves behind.
Thank you, Chris Bartlett. Best of luck on your journey ahead!
As we say goodbye to his leadership, Bartlett has shared his next steps: a return to his passion for queer history and archives—and an exciting new chapter in his education.
So what does this transition mean for William Way? And what can we expect from Bartlett as he embarks on his next journey?
Who is Chris Bartlett? A Lifelong Advocate for LGBTQ+ Rights
For over 30 years, Chris Bartlett has been a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, a scholar of queer history, and a public health leader.His activism began during the HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 1990s, when he worked tirelessly to support those affected by the epidemic. He became a leading voice in HIV/AIDS education, research, and advocacy, collaborating with organizations such as the Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) and the AIDS Library of Philadelphia.
Bartlett has also been deeply committed to documenting and preserving LGBTQ+ history. Through his work with oral history projects and digital archives, he has helped ensure that the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ elders and activists are not lost to time.
In 2011, he took on one of his most influential roles: executive director of the William Way LGBT Community Center.
Transforming the William Way LGBT Community Center
Under Bartlett’s leadership, William Way evolved from a small community center into a thriving LGBTQ+ hub offering cultural, social, and health-related programs. His vision and dedication brought growth, inclusion, and innovation to the center.Some of his major accomplishments include:
✅ Expanding Services – Bartlett led the expansion of the center’s support groups, senior programs, and arts initiatives, making it a home for people across generations.
✅ Revitalizing the Space – He oversaw major renovations and upgrades, ensuring that William Way remained welcoming, accessible, and inclusive.
✅ Advancing Racial and Gender Equity – Under his leadership, the center prioritized diversity by increasing support for BIPOC and transgender individuals.
✅ Strengthening LGBTQ+ Advocacy – Bartlett worked with local and national organizations to push for LGBTQ+ rights, public health initiatives, and community empowerment.
His tenure solidified William Way’s reputation as a leading LGBTQ+ institution in Philadelphia, and his impact will be felt for years to come.
Why His Departure Matters
For many, Chris Bartlett and William Way have been inseparable. His ability to connect with people, advocate for change, and create meaningful programs made him not just a leader, but a mentor and friend to countless Philadelphians.His departure raises big questions:
– Who will take the reins and continue his vision of inclusion and growth?
– How will the center evolve in a post-Bartlett era?
– What role will the community play in shaping William Way’s future?
While transitions like this can be challenging, one thing is certain: Bartlett leaves the center stronger than ever. His work has built a foundation for the next generation of leaders to carry the torch.
What’s Next for Chris Bartlett?
When asked about his next steps, Bartlett didn’t hesitate. His future will focus on queer history, archives, and education—a return to one of his greatest passions.His decision to continue his education reflects his lifelong commitment to learning, preserving history, and sharing LGBTQ+ stories. Bartlett has already contributed so much to LGBTQ+ historical research, and his next chapter will allow him to dive even deeper.
While we don’t yet know exactly where his studies will take him, one thing is clear: his work is far from over. The community can expect to see him continue writing, researching, and advocating for LGBTQ+ visibility and historical preservation.
A Community’s Gratitude
As we reflect on Chris Bartlett’s incredible contributions, it’s important to take a moment to simply say:Thank you, Chris.
For over a decade, you have given your heart, time, and expertise to make William Way—and Philadelphia—a better place for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Your leadership has uplifted so many, and while we will miss seeing you at the helm of William Way, we can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.
How You Can Honor His Legacy
Want to celebrate Chris Bartlett’s work and ensure that William Way continues to thrive? Here’s how you can help:🌈 Donate to William Way to keep its programs strong.
🌈 Volunteer to support LGBTQ+ initiatives in Philadelphia.
🌈 Engage in LGBTQ+ history—read, document, and share stories.
🌈 Send a message of thanks to Bartlett for his years of service.
The Philadelphia LGBTQ+ community will forever be shaped by Bartlett’s leadership. As he steps into this new chapter, we honor the impact he has made and the legacy he leaves behind.
Thank you, Chris Bartlett. Best of luck on your journey ahead!
