Matthew Birkhoff is a dedicated leader and advocate joining the Board of Gulf Coast Equality with a strong background in both corporate leadership and nonprofit service. Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, and now residing in Long Beach, Mississippi, Matthew brings a deep-rooted passion for community engagement and equity across the Gulf South.

​

Professionally, Matthew serves as a Human Resources Executive with Target, where he also leads the Global Pride+ Belonging Employee Resource Group, advancing inclusion and belonging initiatives at a global level. His nonprofit experience includes serving as the former Chief Financial Officer for Be Fierce and Kind in Slidell, Louisiana, where he supported organizational growth and financial stewardship.

Matthew’s longstanding commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community is reflected in his numerous honors and titles, including New Orleans Pride Grand Marshal (2012), Mr. Phoenix New Orleans Leather (2014), Mr. Big Easy Leather (2015), Top 10 Finalist for International Mr. Leather (2015), GAA Leather Person of the Year (2015), and recipient of the Asya Alexander Memorial Service Award for Miss Gay Louisiana America (2013).

​

Outside of his professional and advocacy work, Matthew enjoys spending time outdoors, especially on the water, caring for his three rescue dogs, and making meaningful memories with friends and family.