BOARD OF DIRECTORS
LATOYA
Latoya resides in New York and works as a Fashion Designer who enjoys creating modern products that customers respond to and love! As a Co-Founder of Gotham Cheer, Latoya is dedicated to pushing the boundaries and society’s perceptions of adult cheerleading. She is also passionate about supporting and uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community. When she isn’t working, you’ll find Latoya volunteering around New York City, hitting the local museums and of course, people watching.
FELIPE
Felipe was born in the Dominican Republic and has two degrees in Psychology. His passion for cheerleading began while on the Columbia University Cheer Squad and in graduate school while on Yale’s Cheerleading Team. He has created two other nonprofit cheer organizations in New York City and co-founded a national affiliation for LGBTQ cheerleaders. In 2018, his dedication to community service, diversity and helping LGBTQ youth led him to co-found “Gotham Cheer.”
RYAN
Ryan is a native New Yorker. He is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. He received his Master's degree from Columbia University. Ryan's athletic background includes experience as a circus performer, personal trainer, and cheerleader. Ryan has been involved with Gotham Cheer since the beginning and became a Board Member in 2019. Besides being a Board Member, Ryan also serves as Gotham Cheer's Health Advisor.
ELLISON
Ellison Barnes, a Chicago native, found himself in NYC after being offered a multi-unit leadership role with a mid-contemporary fashion retailer. Ellison joined Gotham Cheer in 2019, looking for a way to give back to the city while engaging with like-minded adults who enjoy athletics. During his time with Gotham, Ellison had the privilege of cheering in multiple Pride Parades around NYC, Orlando Pride, and Jersey City Pride. He represented Gotham Cheer at the Gay Games in Paris, France. Ellison was also highly engaged with community give-back events that supported the LGBTQIA Community. After being an active member for 4 years, Ellison was asked to be on the leadership team to support Gotham’s mission, members, and events.
MEET OUR FAMILY
"When I moved to NYC, I was really missing the queer family I had in college. Gotham Cheer quickly became a huge part of my queer life and I felt surrounded with love and positivity! I had no cheerleading experience; I didn’t even know what 'stunting' meant!! I am now OBSESSED with cheering, stunting and Gotham Cheer!"
-Connor, Team Member
