SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — San Diego Pride has named LGBTQIA+ advocate and nonprofit leader Madonna Cacciatore as its interim executive director, effective Sept. 23, 2025. The announcement comes as the organization begins a national search for its next permanent executive director.
According to a press release release, Cacciatore brings more than 20 years of experience advancing LGBTQIA+ causes, including her previous role as executive director of CSW | LA Pride in West Hollywood. During her tenure, she expanded the festival’s footprint, boosted community engagement, and led record-breaking fundraising campaigns.
“We are thrilled to welcome Madonna’s leadership and deep experience during this important transition for San Diego Pride,” said Martha Henderson, Search Committee chair and returning board member. “Her proven track record and lifelong commitment to LGBTQIA+ communities will help guide us as we continue our search for permanent leadership.”
Cacciatore’s professional journey also includes roles as global project manager at InterPride, where she worked to connect Pride organizers worldwide, and as events director at the Los Angeles LGBT Center, producing major fundraisers like An Evening with Women and Simply diVine. She began her career at AIDS Project Los Angeles, where she developed a foundation in advocacy and community care.
A lifelong activist, Cacciatore’s work has been shaped by personal loss during the AIDS epidemic. She has completed seven AIDS/LifeCycle rides and volunteered with national organizations such as Freedom to Marry and The Names Project Quilt.
“I join this team with humility and gratitude, mindful of the pivotal moment our organization and community face,” said Cacciatore. “In a time when our most fundamental human rights—freedom of speech and bodily autonomy—are under relentless attack, I am honored to work alongside the staff, volunteers, and board members at San Diego Pride. Together, we will continue to build on this organization’s legacy of resilience and resistance.”
San Diego Pride’s Board of Directors has established a national Search Committee, led by Henderson, with interviews expected to begin in late October and early November. The organization aims to welcome a permanent executive director by late 2025 or early 2026.
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