EXECUTIVE BOARD
Breonna McCree - Co Chair
Breonna McCree is a trailblazing advocate with over two decades of dedicated service to advancing social justice and fostering empowerment within the transgender community. Her impactful work spans a wide array of initiatives aimed at uplifting marginalized voices, creating equitable opportunities, and addressing systemic barriers faced by transgender individuals.
As the former Director of Community Engagement at the Center of Excellence for Transgender Health at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), McCree led groundbreaking initiatives in transgender empowerment, behavioral interventions, and HIV prevention. Her role included developing and implementing programs that directly addressed the health and wellness needs of transgender women of color, emphasizing culturally competent care and community-driven solutions. Her influence extends to her work with notable organizations such as Health Right 360 Recovery Services, Tenderloin AIDS Resource Center, Public Health Institute, and UCSF, where she made substantial contributions to advancing health equity and community support for underserved populations.
McCree’s unwavering dedication to transgender empowerment has garnered widespread recognition. In 2023, she was honored as a Grand Marshal by San Francisco Pride, a prestigious acknowledgment of her impactful advocacy and leadership. Her contributions have also been celebrated by San Francisco Mayor London Breed, Senator Scott Wiener, and the Bayard Rustin Coalition, highlighting her profound influence on policy, community engagement, and social change.
Currently serving as Co-Executive Director of the Transgender District, the first legally recognized transgender district in the world, McCree focuses on fostering collaboration, building impactful partnerships, and creating programs that resonate with the diverse needs of transgender individuals in San Francisco’s Tenderloin neighborhood. Her work prioritizes economic empowerment and stabilization, with a mission to promote health and wellness, historic sites, and safe community spaces. Under her leadership, the Transgender District has become a beacon of resilience and innovation, driving systemic change and enhancing opportunities for economic and social mobility.
McCree’s vision is rooted in a profound commitment to inclusivity and equity, striving for a world free from oppression where transgender and gender-diverse communities can thrive. Her proactive and innovative strategies have established her as a thought leader in advancing transgender health and empowerment. Whether through advocacy, program development, or community engagement, McCree’s work is marked by a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals and a relentless pursuit of meaningful, transformative solutions.
Joseph Mims has a combined 12 years experience in advocacy and support, serving as the former Area IV HIV AIDS Program Coordinator for the Florida Department of Health and Prevention Coordinator for UF CARES in Jacksonville Florida. Joseph also has several years experience working in substance abuse focusing on Medication Assisted Treatment. He is a Cisgender male whose personal pronouns are He,Him and His.
Joseph Mims- Community Engagement
LaShonda Simmons, also known by her chosen name Angel Devine Dupree, was born and raised in Gainesville, Florida. Her journey has taken her from Gainesville to Jacksonville, Florida, and now to her current residence in Brunswick, Georgia. LaShonda is a graduate of City College of Fort Lauderdale, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Care Administration. Her academic achievements reflect her dedication to service and her passion for fostering well-being within her community.
As a proud partner and advocate of the Unspoken Treasure Society, LaShonda actively supports the organization’s mission to empower and uplift individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. She stands firmly behind the core values of love, unity, freedom, and justice, which guide her efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable world. Her advocacy is deeply rooted in her belief that every individual deserves to live authentically and without fear of discrimination or prejudice.
LaShonda’s hope and prayer for Unspoken Treasure Society are that the organization continues to expand its reach, break down barriers, and dismantle systems of injustice. She envisions a world where unity prevails over division and where the rights and dignity of all individuals are upheld. Inspired by the powerful words of Ban Ki-Moon, she echoes the call to solidarity: “To those who are in the LGBTQ+ community – let me say – you are not alone. Today, I stand with you. And I call upon all countries and people to stand with you.”
Through her unwavering support and advocacy, LaShonda Simmons exemplifies the spirit of resilience, compassion, and determination. She is committed to ensuring that the values of Unspoken Treasure Society resonate far beyond its current borders, helping to build a future where love and justice are not only ideals but realities for all.
LaShonda SImmons - Chair
Regina Livingston, the founder and CEO of Unspoken Treasure Society, has dedicated her life to fostering unity and addressing the diverse needs of the LGBTQ+ community. Drawing from her personal experiences, Regina recognized the importance of providing resources and equal opportunities to those facing systemic challenges. Thus, Unspoken Treasure Society was established as a non-profit organization committed to empowering individuals through job placement, affordable housing, safe sex education, HIV testing and counseling, suicide prevention, and advocacy for victims of domestic abuse.
Since its inception in 2018, Unspoken Treasure Society has expanded to include three chapters in Gainesville, Jacksonville, and Atlanta, Georgia. Regina reflects on her journey, acknowledging the challenges faced along the way but expressing fulfillment in her efforts. With a resolute goal of unifying and uplifting the LGBTQ+ community, Regina remains determined to make a lasting impact and create a more inclusive society for everyone.
Through the tireless work of Regina and the Unspoken Treasure Society team, countless lives have been positively influenced, and the organization continues to strive toward its vision of a world where every individual, regardless of their gender, race, or identity, has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Regina Livingston, CEO
Kane Barr (They/He) is a Biological Science Technician with a focus in agricultural research and a graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). Kane has a unique set of experiences navigating work, family, and higher education as a queer and trans person of mixed race. These experiences have encouraged him to be an advocate for trans people within and outside of the community. Kane hopes to keep changing the world to be more inclusive and compassionate for everyone.
Kane Barr - Secretary
Shauntel Elexia St. James Black, Treasurer
Shauntel Elexia St. James Black resides in Gainesville, Florida, where she has become a respected and valued member of her community. She currently works as a Lead Environmental Services (EVS) professional in a retirement community, a role in which she demonstrates her commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for residents. Shauntel’s dedication to her work reflects her compassion and desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Beyond her professional achievements, Shauntel has been captivating audiences as a professional entertainer for over 18 years. Her talent, creativity, and vibrant energy have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment world, where she consistently inspires and uplifts others. Through her performances, Shauntel not only brings joy to her audience but also uses her platform to advocate for inclusivity, self-expression, and community unity.
Shauntel’s passion for her community extends far beyond the stage. She is deeply committed to giving back and actively participates in initiatives that foster connection, support, and empowerment. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or organizing local events, Shauntel embraces every opportunity to contribute to the well-being of her community.
A true advocate for love, unity, and progress, Shauntel Elexia St. James Black exemplifies the values of compassion, service, and leadership. She continues to inspire others with her dedication to her work, her artistry, and her unwavering commitment to making Gainesville—and the world—a better place for all.