San Diego, CA, December 19, 2025
San Diego Pride has appointed KishaLynn Elliott as its new Executive Director, effective next month. This decision follows a tumultuous period of leadership changes and organizational struggles. Community members have expressed concerns regarding transparency and direction while calling for a clear vision and effective advocacy moving forward. The hope is that Elliott’s leadership will address these challenges and stabilize the organization.
San Diego Pride Appoints KishaLynn Elliott as New Executive Director Amid Organizational Challenges
San Diego, CA – San Diego Pride has announced the appointment of KishaLynn Elliott as its new Executive Director, effective next month. This decision follows a period of significant leadership turnover and organizational turmoil within the organization.
Leadership Transition
Elliott’s appointment comes after a months-long search and several interim leadership changes. In September 2025, Madonna Cacciatore was appointed as Interim Executive Director while the organization conducted a national search for a permanent leader. Prior to Cacciatore, Kristin Flickinger served as Interim Executive Director following the departure of Leane Marchese in May 2025. Marchese had been appointed in August 2024.
Organizational Challenges
The leadership changes have been accompanied by internal challenges. In June 2025, current and former volunteers, staff, and board members expressed concerns about “systemic dysfunction” within the organization. They highlighted issues such as depleted staff, reduced programming, and a lack of transparency in leadership decisions.
Community Response
The community’s concerns have led to calls for a clear vision for the future of San Diego Pride and a transparent process for hiring the next Executive Director. Recommendations include articulating core values, long-term goals, and commitments to advocacy and equity.
Background
San Diego Pride has a history of leadership changes. In 2016, the board terminated Executive Director Stephen Whitburn without publicly sharing the reason. Whitburn later filed a wrongful termination lawsuit in 2018. In 2017, Eric Heinritz was selected as Executive Director but resigned six months later. Fernando Z. Lopez served as Executive Director from 2018 until May 2025.
Looking Ahead
With Elliott’s appointment, San Diego Pride aims to stabilize its leadership and address the organizational challenges it has faced in recent years. The community and stakeholders are hopeful that this new chapter will lead to a more cohesive and effective organization.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is KishaLynn Elliott?
KishaLynn Elliott is the newly appointed Executive Director of San Diego Pride, effective next month. Her appointment follows a period of significant leadership turnover within the organization.
What led to the leadership changes at San Diego Pride?
The leadership changes were prompted by internal challenges, including concerns about “systemic dysfunction,” depleted staff, reduced programming, and a lack of transparency in leadership decisions.
What are the community’s concerns regarding San Diego Pride?
The community has expressed concerns about the organization’s direction, leadership transparency, and commitment to advocacy and equity. Calls have been made for a clear vision and a transparent process for hiring the next Executive Director.
What is the history of leadership at San Diego Pride?
San Diego Pride has experienced several leadership changes, including the termination of Executive Director Stephen Whitburn in 2016, the resignation of Eric Heinritz in 2017, and the tenure of Fernando Z. Lopez from 2018 until May 2025.
What is the community’s hope for the future of San Diego Pride?
The community hopes that with the appointment of KishaLynn Elliott, San Diego Pride will stabilize its leadership and address the organizational challenges it has faced, leading to a more cohesive and effective organization.
Key Features of San Diego Pride’s Leadership Transition
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Executive Director | KishaLynn Elliott appointed, effective next month |
| Interim Leadership | Madonna Cacciatore served as Interim Executive Director since September 2025 |
| Previous Leadership | Kristin Flickinger served as Interim Executive Director following Leane Marchese’s departure in May 2025 |
| Community Concerns | Issues include “systemic dysfunction,” depleted staff, and reduced programming |
| Recommendations | Calls for a clear vision, transparent hiring process, and commitment to advocacy and equity |
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