FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber Welcomes Rene Cantu as New President and CEO
Chris Rollins Named Board Chair
TAMPA, FL, Oct. 24, 2024– The Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber is excited to announce the appointment of Rene Cantu as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective October 17, 2024. Cantu brings a wealth of experience in leadership, community engagement, and advocacy that will propel the Chamber into its next chapter of growth and impact.
Cantu steps into the role following the successful tenure of Justice Gennari, who has led the Chamber through a period of impressive growth and strengthened ties within the business community. The Chamber expresses deep gratitude for Justice’s contributions and is confident that Cantu’s leadership will build on this strong foundation.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rene Cantu as our new President and CEO,” said Chris Rollins, newly appointed Board Chair of the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber. “Rene’s vision for inclusive economic growth, commitment to our members and passion for LGBTQ+ advocacy, aligns perfectly with the Chamber’s mission. Under his leadership, we are excited to continue creating ripples of positive change in the Tampa Bay area and beyond.”
With a career spanning over 25 years, Cantu has been a champion for diversity and inclusion, small businesses and is committed to ensuring that the Chamber remains a catalyst for business development, collaboration, and community engagement. His appointment marks a significant moment in the Chamber’s ongoing efforts to empower LGBTQ+ professionals and business leaders.
“I am honored to take on this role and build on the incredible work the Chamber has done,” said Rene Cantu. “Together with the Board and our members, I look forward to creating new opportunities for connection and driving the economic vitality of our diverse business community.”
Chris Rollins, a certified LGBTBE himself and who will serve as Board Chair, brings a fresh perspective and deep expertise in leadership development and inclusion. As both the new CEO and Board Chair assume their roles, the Chamber is poised to strengthen its influence and continue serving as a vital resource for the LGBTQ+ business community.
If you are interested in joining the Board of Directors, applications are open through October 27, 2024 and can be submitted here.
For more information about the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber or to schedule an interview with Rene Cantu or Chris Rollins, please contact:
Rene Cantu
President & CEO
membership@tampabaylgbtchamber.org
Chris Rollins
Board Chair
chris@chrisrollins.me
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About Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber
The Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber mission is to advance common business interests, economic growth, and equality in the workplace and society for its LGBTQ and allied businesses, corporations and professional members by providing educational, networking, and community engagement. The LGBT Chamber represents seven counties in Tampa Bay, including the City of Tampa, City of St. Petersburg, City of Sarasota, and hundreds of the region’s inclusive businesses.
To learn more, visit www.tampabaylgbtchamber.org or follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.