Officers

Hello! My name is Louis J. Gastelum and I am Secretary for the Mahoning Valley Pride Center. I am originally from Arizona. I have also lived in California and Florida. Currently, I am a student at Youngstown State University and I have two more semesters to complete to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. In the future I plan on opening a cafe in the area. I also love to cook, garden, craft, and paint. Here is a Link to my blog Gestures where you can have a look at what I am currently working on.

Hi everyone! My name is Nicole Peterson and I'm currently one of the Co-Chairs for the Mahoning Valley Pride Center. I am originally from Ohio. I moved away for a couple of years and spent time in Arizona and Florida. I then moved back to Ohio in 2003. In 2005 I returned to Youngstown State University to finish my degree. I will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Telecommunications in May of 2009. After graduation I'm hoping to pursue my masters degree at YSU. I enjoy being actively involved in the community and meeting new people.

Hello! I am Brian Wells and I serve as one of two co-chairs for the Mahoning Valley Pride Center (MVPC). I graduated with a BA in Psychology from YSU and I am currently pursuing a Masters degree with a focus in Student Affairs Leadership and Practice at YSU. I began my activist work on the YSU campus in 1997 as a student leader in the LGBT student organization. As professional staff at YSU, I now serve as faculty advisor to YSUnity, YSU’s gay-straight alliance. In addition to YSUnity, I am involved in Youngstown PFLAG and Equality Ohio. I am honored to serve the Mahoning Valley in our efforts to spread equality across the Valley and throughout the state of Ohio.

Hello! My name is Louis J. Gastelum and I am Secretary for the Mahoning Valley Pride Center. I am originally from Arizona. I have also lived in California and Florida. Currently, I am a student at Youngstown State University and I have two more semesters to complete to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. In the future I plan on opening a cafe in the area. I also love to cook, garden, craft, and paint. Here is a Link to my blog Gestures where you can have a look at what I am currently working on.