NASHVILLE (AP) - A former Belmont University soccer coach who left the private Christian university after coming out to her students has been hired as the executive director of the Nashville Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Chamber of Commerce.

Lisa Howe's departure from the school led to an ordinance that barred companies that discriminate against gays and lesbians from doing business with the city. While that ordinance was overturned by a state law, Howe said in a news release on Monday announcing her new position that she wants to be an advocate for workplace equality.

Michael Fluck, the president of the Nashville GLBT Chamber of Commerce, said Howe will be the first executive director for the chamber and has management skills that will move the chamber forward.