New Hope Celebrates welcomes five new board members and extends president’s term through July 2026

New Hope Celebrates (NHC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving the LGBTQ+ community and its allies in New Hope, Lambertville, and the surrounding area is pleased to announce the addition of five new members to its Board of Directors. The NHC Board has also voted to extend Melissa Patterson’s term as president by one year, continuing her leadership through July 2026.

“Leadership continuity is essential for sustaining momentum and deepening impact. Melissa’s extended term ensures that New Hope Celebrates remains anchored in vision, values, and community connection, especially as we welcome new voices to the Board. Her steady guidance allows us to grow with purpose and pride,” said Sharon Fronabarger, NHC Special Advisor.

This year’s Board selection process included interviews and careful consideration of an impressive number of applicants. “We were fortunate to meet so many talented, passionate people eager to contribute to our mission,” said Melissa Patterson, NHC President. “The decision process was not easy — a testament to the strength and dedication of our community.”

Joining the Board are Jason Chun, Quinten Darling, Ann Major, Michael Raymond, and Lisa Schiller, each bringing a unique blend of professional expertise and deep community connection. Their term will run for two years.

NHC also extends its gratitude to departing board members John Bell, Eva Guasconi, and Eric Stephenson for their years of service and contributions to the organization and community. Their commitment has helped shape NHC’s events, outreach, and continued presence as a source of pride and connection in the New Hope–Lambertville area.

“I think what’s most exciting and promising about the new additions to the board is that they aren’t new to the organization. These are faces that have been at our events helping out for years and they decided to step up and become more involved. That’s dedication and commitment to this organization and community that is inspiring. Those of us who have been around for a while are pleased to see the next phase of NHC moving in such a promising direction,” said Ryan Segura, NHC VP of Events.

These new members join current Executive Board Members Melissa Patterson, Ryan Segura, Paul Kokesh, Rich Lucarini, and Kelly Beck-Kay as well as Board Members Shelby Bacorn, Roger Green, Jaye McNeill, and Fred White, and Special Advisor Sharon Fronabarger. The NHC Board of Directors as a whole are confident in the new team members and excited about the future of the organization. 

If you’d like to partner with NHC or become a Champion of Pride to help fuel NHC’s mission of inclusion and visibility, visit newhopecelebrates.com.