Recent board president Justyn Hunter-Ceruti to take reins of LGBTQ+ advocacy group
The Project Pride SRQ board of directors has named Justyn Hunter-Ceruti the organization’s interim executive director, the board has announced.
He officially will take over the leadership post on May 4, a news release says. “At that time, he will step back from his current role of board president and board member Jessica Maxon-Berrier will assume that role — the first woman to do so in Project Pride SRQ’s history,” the release points out.
Hunter-Ceruti has been engaged to remain in the interim role through Dec. 31, the release notes. “This transition marks a new leadership chapter for the organization as it continues to build on its mission and community partnerships,” the release adds.
“Hunter-Ceruti brings a strong combination of nonprofit governance leadership, operational expertise, and community-rooted service to the interim executive director role,” the release points out. “He first became involved with Project Pride SRQ as a volunteer in 2022,” it continues. He joined the board of directors in 2023. Since then, he “has since served in key leadership roles,” the release notes.
“During his time with the organization, he has supported strategic planning, governance development, fundraising efforts, partnership-building, and operational strengthening,” the release says. “His background reflects a steady, mission-driven approach and a strong ability to connect strategic priorities with practical execution,” it adds. Hunter-Ceruti also brings experience in operations, vendor oversight, performance tracking, cross-functional collaboration and organizational systems from his career in the private sector, “which he expects will support this next chapter for the organization well,” the release notes.
“Hunter-Ceruti is a member of the LGBTQ+ community and has been actively involved in the Sarasota community since moving here five years ago,” the release continues. He lives locally with his husband and family, a fact that “he believes gives him an especially personal investment in helping build a more connected, visible, and inclusive future for our region,” the release adds.
“I’m honored to step into this role at an important moment for Project Pride SRQ,” said Hunter-Ceruti in the release. “I care deeply about this organization, its mission and the community it serves, and am honored to steward Project Pride through my term — and beyond.”
“Justyn brings a thoughtful, mission-driven approach to leadership and a genuine commitment to the community Project Pride SRQ serves,” said Maxon-Berrier in the release. “His history with the organization, combined with his steady and collaborative style, positions him well to help guide Project Pride SRQ forward.”
The release also points out, “Project Pride SRQ is thrilled to have enjoyed a successful Giving Challenge and is looking forward to its upcoming events, including the annual Silver Pride celebration at Senior Friendship Centers on June 6.”
Visit ppsrq.org to learn more about the organization and see its full event/program schedule.