President - She/Her/Hers
Cassie moved to Peoria over a decade ago, from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She did her undergrad at Bradley University and after graduating, she stayed and made Peoria her home. After coming out, Cassie has been actively involved with the LGBTQ+ Community in Central Illinois.
Cassie is excited to be serving as the President for Peoria Proud. Since getting involved with Peoria Proud, Cassie has helped plan many community events and has had an active role in planning RiverCity Pridefest. Cassie enjoys working to bring the community together and unifying our mission.
Cassie also works in social services and spends her down time with her lovely wife and two fur babies. She also loves to cook and hang out with her friends. Cassie lives out and proud, so that young, LGBTQ folks can see a future where they belong.
Secretary - She/Her/Hers
Selena Pappas (she/her) comes to Peoria from the south suburbs of Chicago. She attended Bradley University, where she earned her Bachelors Degree in Game Design.
Like many young people her age, Selena's life received a major shake-up when she graduated in 2020, but it is part of that shake-up that led her to join the Board of Peoria Proud as their Secretary.
She is currently the Rural Health Outreach, Public Relations & Marketing Coordinator for Central Illinois FRIENDS. When not working she enjoys a good read and a lofi playlist.
VP of Communications - She/Her/Hers
Nicole Morrow is a social worker/ Housing Coordinator for the City of Peoria by day, and professional volunteer by any other time of day.
Nicole has a passion for volunteering in the community, on the Missional Engagement Committee at her affirming faith community United Presbyterian Church, and within Peoria Proud and Hand Up Peoria Inc.
In her spare time she can usually be found relaxing at home watching a movie, doing yard work, maintaining one of the three fishtanks within her home and the dog, or reading a book.
She encourages you to reach out and get involved!
Treasurer - He/Him/His
Jake is a Metamora native who has spent most of his adult life in the Peoria area and has been a leader in the private sector since 2017. He is the Chief Operating Officer of PB Properties and Mad Dog Cleaning Services and oversees the business end of his husband's salon, Rebel Roots Hair Haus. He works to ensure that all operations run smoothly and efficiently.
Jake has advocated for inclusivity and acceptance since he came out as a sophomore in high school. Since then, he has worked to create a world where everyone can be out, proud, and be themselves, free of fear of judgment or discrimination. Volunteer activities with relatable experiences prior to serving on the Peoria Proud board included board member for Metamora Bands and treasurer for the Sabrina K. Page Foundation.
Jake lives in Germantown Hills with his husband, Scott, and their three dogs, Charlie, Rebel, and Zeke. They enjoy traveling, biking, and trying new recipes together.
Board Member at Large- She/Her/Hers
Board Member at Large- He/They
We are always looking for new members, and would love to have you!
