Horizons Foundation Honored Retiring President
Supporters gathered in San Francisco to celebrate the 24-year career of departing president Roger Doughty.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in LGBTQand
The Horizons Foundation hosted its A Night of Pride gala at the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco to honor retiring president Roger Doughty. Over 400 attendees celebrated Doughty for his 24-year tenure at the organization.
Why it matters
The gala highlighted the impact of Doughty’s leadership on the foundation, which has operated for 46 years as an advocate for LGBTQ causes. It also marked a transition in leadership as the organization prepares for his upcoming retirement.
The gala drew more than 400 attendees to the Westin St. Francis to recognize Doughty's 24-year legacy. The Horizons Foundation maintains a total history spanning 46 years of operation.
The players
Roger Doughty
He is the retiring president of the Horizons Foundation who served the organization for 24 years.
Nancy Pelosi
She is a long-serving member of the U.S. House of Representatives who presented a tray to Doughty.
Scott Wiener
He is a California State Senator who presented an official resolution during the ceremony.
Vincent Jones
He is the incoming CEO who is set to take over leadership of the Horizons Foundation.
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence
They are a charitable organization known for protest and performance art that sainted Doughty.
The details
During the event, notable figures including Nancy Pelosi and Scott Wiener presented awards and commendations to Doughty, including an official resolution from the California Senate. The city officially recognized the date as Roger Doughty Day, while the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence honored him with a sainthood title.
Timeline
October 3, 2026: The Horizons Foundation gala took place at the Westin St. Francis.
November 2026: Roger Doughty is scheduled to retire from his position.
Culture Shift
The event reflects a broader trend of institutional continuity as long-tenured leaders in the non-profit sector pass the torch to new executives. This shift signals the ongoing evolution of LGBTQ philanthropy as organizations adapt to new leadership eras after decades of work.
Residents may notice changes in community leadership at the foundation following the transition to a new CEO. The event serves as a reminder of the historical influence local advocacy groups have on the city's social and philanthropic landscape.
The takeaway
Leadership transitions are a critical moment for long-standing non-profits to reinforce their core missions. Community members can support these organizations by engaging with new leadership and continuing to participate in local fundraising efforts.
What happens next
Roger Doughty is scheduled to officially retire from the Horizons Foundation in November 2026.
Further reading
Find more updates on local community events at San Francisco LGBTQand.
More information
Learn more about the foundation's initiatives by visiting the Horizons Foundation organization website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by San Francisco Bay Times.
