The International Game Developers Association Foundation (IGDA-F) bolsters its dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) with the appointment of a new chair

The International Game Developers Association Foundation (IGDA-F) has announced the appointment of Shannon Loftis as the new chair of its board of directors.

Loftis succeeds Ed Fries, who has stepped down from his role as chair after two years but will continue to serve on the board.

Bringing with her more than three decades of experience in game development and a strong dedication to inclusivity at Microsoft, Loftis is expected to help the Foundation advance its mission of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion for developers worldwide.

"I'm thrilled and honored to lead this board, and to work closely with the foundation and with the IGDA," Loftis expressed in a statement.

She added, "The IGDA Foundation stands out as a highly inclusive, intersectional, globally-relevant, and impactful organization in game development, and I believe that our mission is more essential today than ever before."

Ed Fries, the former chair, praised Loftis, saying, "Having collaborated with Shannon since our time at Microsoft, I recognize her as an outstanding leader whose background and industry acumen make her ideally suited for this role. I am confident the IGDA Foundation will uphold its core values under her leadership."

While the IGDA-F shares close ties with the International Game Developers Association, it operates independently as a charitable body aimed at supporting underrepresented and marginalized game developers globally through initiatives like professional development programs, mentorship, scholarships, and game jams.

The previous year saw the International Game Developers Association take a stand against the United States Patent and Trademark Office regarding a new requisition for applicants to provide their home addresses during trademark registration.