Our Team

Michele was elected President of the Board May 2022. When she's not at The Center, she's busy advocating for clients at her and her wife's private law practice. 

Emily was elected Vice President of the Board June 2022. She splits her time between The Center, being a Fire Captain, her family, and advocating for transgender rights. 

Kelley has been the Board's Secretary for two years. She leads our ally and family support group, is our Gay/Straight Alliance liaison, and many other primary roles. 

Cass was just elected Treasurer in January 2023. She is bringing years of teaching experience to our Board and is the recent recipient of her school's Teach of the Year Award. 

Laura is a Panama City native, graduating from Rutherford. When not volunteering with us, she works for Edward Jones, where she has been for 18+ years, or passing out Free Mom Hugs. 

Jennifer is also new to the Board this January, and she brings unmatched style and swag! When she's not volunteering with us, you can find her brining joy to someone!

David recently joined the Board in January. He relocated to Panama City last year and hit the ground running, even starting the NW Fla. Unity Choir. 

 A retired Air Force Veteran, Lynthia is a proud ally that volunteers with Free Mom Hugs to put her voice to action and recently joined our Board to expand that allyship even further!

Also known locally as "Atomic Alice," she's a  

Panama City Native, Autistic, Artist. Soft spoken until it comes to the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community and a relentless asexual visibility advocate.

Robbie previously served on our board at its inception and has circled back around and rejoined the team! In his spare time, Robbie owns and operates "Big Reel Farms," be sure to check them out on Facebook! 

Roger is the reason the Center stays clean, stocked with snacks, and feeling comfy cozy! Having volunteered with the Center since it's inception in 2018, Roger is an irreplaceable member of our team! He's also a double-lung transplant survivor! 

William became the Center's Executive Director in March 2024, partnered with his husband Steven for 12 years, and a Panama City Beach resident since 1987. 

He is a local LGBTQ+ visionary, advocate and event planner for almost 10 years and is currently the Northwest Florida Pride 2024 chairperson.