Anchor Health is proud to celebrate the visionaries, changemakers, and community leaders who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the health, well-being, and futures of LGBTQ people. More honorees to be announced soon!
patricia chadwick
Cofounder & pro bono CEO
Anchor Health
she/her
Patricia Chadwick is the cofounder and pro bono Chief Executive Officer of Anchor Health. An accomplished executive, board leader, and author, Patricia has dedicated the second half of her career to building an organization that creates meaningful social impact. Her hands-on involvement was instrumental in Anchor Health’s formative years as she bankrolled the organization and worked assiduously to ensure we achieved financial stability. For over a decade, Patricia has been a steadfast ally, ensuring we always have her in our corner.
Since cofounding Anchor Health in 2016, Patricia has transformed the organization from a bold vision into a comprehensive health care provider serving thousands of LGBTQ patients across Connecticut and beyond. Her strategic leadership and belief that everyone deserves access to exceptional health care continue to guide Anchor Health’s growth and impact. We’re proud to honor Patricia and the legacy she continues to build for generations to come.
Mallory james sanchez
Staff attorney, LGBTQ Youth Advocacy Project
Center for Children’s Advocacy
they/she
Mallory James Sanchez is a staff attorney in the LGBTQ Youth Advocacy Project at the Center for Children’s Advocacy, where they advocate for low-income queer and trans youth in matters of special education, discrimination, and access to health care and housing. Through the LGBTQ Youth Advocacy Project, Mallory brings legal resources directly to LGBTQ youth through medical-legal partnerships and collaborations with community organizations like the New Haven Pride Center. They also work on statewide policy initiatives addressing school climate, youth homelessness, and LGBTQ civil rights.
Mallory’s career is defined by a deep commitment to the safety, dignity, and justice of queer and trans youth. They have become an indispensable advocate for Anchor Health’s patients and the broader LGBTQ community. Through our medical-legal partnership, Mallory provides critical legal support to address barriers to patient care, such as housing insecurity, discrimination, and updating identifying documents. Their tenacity is a reminder that exceptional care extends beyond the exam room, and that justice, stability, and advocacy are essential components of a patient’s health and well-being.
Erick Russell
Connecticut State Treasurer
he/him
As Connecticut’s State Treasurer, Erick Russell serves as the state’s chief financial officer. He made history in 2022 as the first Black openly LGBTQ person elected to a statewide office in the country. A lifelong public servant and advocate for equality, Treasurer Russell champions responsible investing, financial opportunity, and policies that strengthen Connecticut’s communities.
Treasurer Russell is a trailblazing leader who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing equity and inclusion across Connecticut. His monumental election has inspired countless queer people to see themselves reflected in public leadership, while he works tirelessly to show that diversity in government strengthens every community. Through his service and advocacy, Treasurer Russell embodies the courage, visibility, and dedication that help create a healthier, more equitable future for everyone.
Amanda Rostkowski, md, phd
Gynecologist
Comprehensive Gynecology of Connecticut
she/her
Amanda Rostkowski, MD, PhD, is a gynecologist at Comprehensive Gynecology of Connecticut and a nationally recognized leader in treating complex gynecologic conditions. Dr. Rostkowski is deeply committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based, and trauma-informed care that recognizes and respects every patient. Through her inclusive practice and expertise, she has become a trusted physician for patients seeking high-quality, supportive gynecologic care.
Dr. Rostkowski exemplifies truly affirming health care. She has intentionally built a practice where every patient feels welcomed, respected, and seen. As a trusted clinical partner of Anchor Health, Dr. Rostkowski collaborates closely with our team to ensure seamless, integrated care at every step. Beyond her medical excellence, Dr. Rostkowski is a relentless advocate for LGBTQ health and for advancing the understanding of historically overlooked conditions such as endometriosis. Her exceptional leadership, empathy, and commitment to inclusive medicine have improved countless lives.