(September 20, 2024) — Michel J. Pelletier, an experienced leader with an extensive background in LGBTQ+ media and broadcast brand marketing, has joined News is Out as director of strategic partnerships.
This is the second full-time hire of the LGBTQ+ collaborative, after Managing Director Dana Piccoli was brought on full-time in 2022. Pelletier will be responsible for growing partnerships with brands and foundations looking to support LBGTQ+ media.
The groundbreaking News is Out collaborative, made up of six leading LGBTQ+ media outlets — Bay Area Reporter, Dallas Voice, Philadelphia Gay News, Tagg Magazine, Washington Blade and Windy City Times — has grown considerably since its inception in 2021.
The site has seen a 200% increase in website traffic from 2022 to 2023 and newsletter growth of 150%.
This February, the collaborative announced its partnership with Comcast NBCUniversal and Word In Black on The Digital Equity Local Voices Lab. The lab is anchored by 16 year-long fellowships covering Black and LGBTQ+ topics in the media and supporting emerging journalists with a passion for reporting on issues of importance to these communities.
The collaborative will utilize Pelletier’s background in brand marketing and LGTBQ+ media to grow philanthropic and brand partnerships.
Pelletier has a proven track record of driving revenue and audience growth through strategic partnerships and branded content development across multiple platforms.
Most recently, as Chief Marketing Officer of equalpride, Pelletier led the launch and revitalization of seven LGBTQ+ entertainment, news, and lifestyle brands, achieving top rankings and increasing brand awareness. In addition to his work in national media, Pelletier has extensive experience in local news media. As director of marketing and brand at TEGNA, he developed community-focused marketing strategies that generated over $1.6 million in donations for local non-profits, while elevating the 13NewsNow brand.
“I’m incredibly honored to continue championing the mission of News is Out, a groundbreaking collaborative dedicated to elevating LGBTQ+ voices and stories that matter,” Pelletier said. “As someone deeply committed to our community, I believe in the power of authentic representation and impactful storytelling. Together, we’re building a future where LGBTQ+ media not only thrives but also drives meaningful change, and I’m excited to be part of that journey.”
Penny Riordan, LMA’s director of business strategy and partnerships, said she is pleased to have Pelletier join the team.
“Michel brings an extensive background working in local media, and also in LGBTQ+-owned media. I’m looking forward to having him promote the work of our collaborative and expand our partnerships,” she said.
About News is Out
News is Out is a pioneering national collaborative of six of the legendary local queer news publishers. We deliver compelling journalism, which engages, amplifies and connects the LGBTQ+ community. newsisout.com
About Local Media Association / Local Media Foundation
Local Media Association brings all media together to share, network, collaborate and more. More than 3,000 newspapers, TV stations, radio stations, digital pure-plays, and research and development partners engage with LMA as members or constituents of our programs. As a 501(c)(6) trade association, LMA is focused on the business side of local media. Its programs and labs focus on revenue growth and new business models. LMA helps local media companies develop their strategies via cutting-edge programs, conferences, webinars, research and training.
Local Media Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable trust, serves as the innovation and transformation affiliate of LMA. Incorporating our four strategic pillars — business transformation, journalism funded by philanthropy, industry collaboration, and sustainability for publishers of color — LMF helps provide local media companies the strategies and resources for meaningful innovation and impactful journalism projects.
Suggested newsletter teaser headline:
News is Out welcomes Director of Strategic Partnerships
Suggested newsletter teaser text:
Michel Pelletier joins News is Out in a brand new position for the collaborative, Director of Strategic Partnerships.
With an impressive background in LGBTQ+ media and brand marketing, Michel will lead efforts to grow partnerships with brands and foundations dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ media.
As our collaborative continues to expand, we’re excited for what lies ahead!
Read more about Michel’s journey and the exciting future of News is Out!
Suggested Linkedin share copy:
We’re thrilled to welcome Michel J. Pelletier as our new Director of Strategic Partnerships. With years of experience in LGBTQ+ media and brand marketing, Michel will drive partnerships with brands and foundations committed to supporting LGBTQ+ media.
Michel joins at a pivotal time as our collaborative looks to the future and continues to grow. We’re excited for what’s next! Please help us welcome Michel.
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News: Michel J. Pelletier joins News is Out as Director of Strategic Partnerships! Michel brings years of experience in LGBTQ+ media & brand marketing. Excited for this new phase of our collaborative!
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