The ‘Comings & Goings’ column chronicles important life changes of Blade readers.
The Comings & Goings column is about sharing the professional successes of our community. We want to recognize those landing new jobs, new clients for their business, joining boards of organizations and other achievements. Please share your successes with us at comingsandgoings@washblade.com.
Congratulations to Rev. Jefferson C. Beeker who has begun his new ministry at Church in Bethesda. According to Beeker, “the church stands as a beacon of light for new hope and possibility that through Christ’s welcoming, unconditional and inclusive embrace we can all experience a deep and meaningful relationship with Spirit/God, as well as with one another. An open and affirming congregation, all are welcome to join in this amazing ministry.”
Rev. Jefferson C. Beeker
Beeker was born and raised in D.C., growing up with a keen interest in theater, government and a passion for American history. Prior to going into the ministry he worked in the entertainment industry in D.C., New York and Los Angeles. Growing up in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) his family members have been part of the denomination for six generations.
Beeker received his master’s in divinity degree from San Francisco Theological Seminary in Pasadena.
“I am gay, single and excited to be living again in Washington, D.C.,” he said. “To me, it is one of the most thrilling cities I have ever lived in. Growing up gay I never thought a life in ministry would be possible.”
Congratulations to Justin Fyala, who was named the new executive director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C. (GMCW) effective Aug. 15. Fyala joins the Chorus with more than 12 years of nonprofit management experience. He spent the past five years leading the Windy City Gay Chorus and Treble Quire, The Youth Choral Theater of Chicago, and Bella Voce, focusing on fundraising and organizational growth. Rob Hall, chair of the GMCW board said, “We are delighted to have found someone with such a full complement of talents. Justin’s work in Chicago with a great LGBTQ chorus, an impressive youth group and other choirs impressed the selection committee and board leaders.”
Justin Fyala
“Choral singing has been a part of my life every day since I was 10 years old,” Fyala said. “My voice changed early and my teacher didn’t know what to do with me, so she made me the narrator. Instead of being ruffled by the experience, I began to devour recordings and books to learn all I could about this magical art form. I am deeply honored to bring my experiences to the GMCW family and to work with some of the most inspiring choral artists in the nation.”
Fyala holds a master’s in arts management from Carnegie Mellon University, studied voice at the University of North Texas, and has a bachelor’s in choral music education from the Pennsylvania State University.
And finally, congratulations are also due to Joseph Poduslo, who was recently promoted to senior vice president at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty. Poduslo has earned a reputation as a leader with a genuinely caring and personal approach and has more than 12 years of experience in the D.C. Metro real estate market. Poduslo is also a 10-time top producer and is ranked one of the top real estate professionals nationwide.
When Poduslo is not working, you might find him at one of the many charities he is involved with. He enjoys golf, tennis, sailing and music.
Joseph Poduslo
