Meet the Leadership Team Behind Fayetteville Pride

Krystal Maddox has been reelected as President of Fayetteville Pride for 2026-2027, bringing a strong commitment to advocacy, visibility, and community empowerment. During her first term as president, she helped bring the 'Pride not Prejudiced' prom to reality and led the fight to move the Festival out of the June heat in the park. As president, Krystal is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies throughout Fayetteville and surrounding areas. With a passion for leadership and grassroots engagement, Krystal focuses on strengthening community partnerships, expanding outreach efforts, and ensuring that Pride reflects the diverse voices within the community. Her vision for the 2026-2027 Fayetteville Pride centers on unity, education, and celebration, creating opportunities for connection while advancing equality and social justice. Krystal is honored to serve in this role again and looks forward to leading with transparency, compassion, and purpose as Fayetteville Pride continues to grow and thrive.

Sean Clark is a community-minded leader from Fayetteville, North Carolina, known for his commitment to service, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. Deeply rooted in the Sandhills region, he brings a practical, people-first perspective shaped by strong ties to his hometown and a belief in supporting families and local institutions. His work consistently reflects values of accountability, compassion, and inclusion, guiding both his professional life and community involvement. Professionally, Sean is a licensed funeral director, a role that places him at the intersection of technical expertise, ethics, and human care. In addition to his work in funeral service, Sean is a small business owner as the operator of Raeford Flowers and Gifts. Beyond his professional roles, Sean serves as Vice President of Fayetteville Pride, where he helps lead initiatives focused on education, equity, and community support. He has played a key role in developing scholarship proposals and outreach efforts designed to expand opportunities for local students in Cumberland County.

Bill McPhail grew up in Fayetteville because of his father's military career. He graduated from Terry Sanford Senior High School and later graduated from Appalachian State University. After embarking on a career in the flower business, he lived in the Raleigh/Durham area for 15 years. He returned to Fayetteville in 1992. He became active in the Lambda Association of Fayetteville and later helped found Fayetteville Area Gay Pride. His love of his hometown pushed him to become a board member of Fayetteville PRIDE and later its current Treasurer. His goal for the organization is to do everything possible to bring a Pride Center to Fayetteville.

Julie Collins is a Hispanic professional and ministry leader with extensive experience in administrative operations, financial oversight, and nonprofit fundraising. Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, she previously served as administrative assistant to the chair of the Chemistry and Physics Department at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP). During her tenure at UNCP, she also served as secretary on the Staff Council Board and was an LGBT Safe Zone representative. In ministry leadership, Julie serves as First Lady of The Inclusive Impact Church and has faithfully served as church treasurer for over 15 years. Julie has been married for over 26 years, is the mother of two children, and is deeply committed to community engagement.

EmJay (MJ) is a nonbinary creative and professional chef currently on hiatus, using this time to focus on art, DIY projects, and community involvement. Passionate about creativity in all its forms, EmJay dreams of one day opening an art studio that doubles as a welcoming community space where people can gather, create, and express themselves freely. Grateful to be part of Fayetteville Pride Board and the broader Pride community, EmJay is committed to fostering connection, creativity, and safe spaces for others to be their authentic selves. EmJay is currently the longest serving at large board member on the Fayetteville Pride Board.

Cindy Corey is a 20 year Army retired nurse, and 20 year retired home contractor. She is a proud member of Fayetteville Pride, Fayetteville Resistance Coalition, and National Handmaid Army. She is a Board member for Fayetteville Chapter of Team River Runner.

Genesis Rosa is a community advocate, volunteer, student, and long standing resident of Fayetteville and Cumberland County. Known for her altruistic character and deep compassion, Ms. Rosa brings professional experience in city and county wide non-profits, as well as the low income housing sector, giving her ample understanding of the greatest challenges facing our community today. She proudly represents the LGBTQIA+ community, our Hispanic & Latino residents, and the excellent local student population, attending both Fayetteville Technical Community College and Fayetteville State University. Genesis looks forward to fostering a safe space, promoting local engagement, and furthering Fayetteville Pride's mission of celebrating unity, embracing diversity, and serving our community.

Matt Herndon has been proud to call the Fayetteville area home for the past 25 years. Over the years, Fayetteville has become more than just a place to live—it's a community he truly cares about and is proud to be a part of. Matt works with Sullivan's Highland Funeral Service, a proud sponsor of Fayetteville Pride, reflecting the funeral home's commitment to supporting and celebrating the diverse people who make our community special. He is also a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Auxiliary, an organization that reflects his appreciation for those who have served our country. Outside of work and community involvement, Matt enjoys spending time with friends, being outdoors, and enjoying the simple moments that make life special.