To Our Neighbors, Members, and Community Partners,

It is with deep humility and a strong sense of responsibility that I step into the role of President of the Pine Hills Community Council, Inc. Being entrusted with this position, and doing so as the youngest president in the Council’s history, is not something I take lightly. It represents both a continuation of more than five decades of civic leadership and a clear call to move Pine Hills forward with intention, transparency, and unity.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who joined us for the Oath of Office. Over 240 people attended the event to celebrate with us. Your presence, encouragement, and belief in the work of this Council reaffirmed why community leadership matters. I am also grateful to our Immediate Past President, Dr. Latanya Nichols for her service, leadership, and steady commitment to Pine Hills, along with the outgoing members of the Board of Directors whose time and dedication helped sustain the Council through important seasons of growth and transition. I was truly humbled to receive the support of Zorida Pritipal, the owner of Orlando Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill, which has four stores. They generously sponsored the delicious food. Harvest Baptiste Church sponsored the drinks. DLB Photography, Caribbean Passport News Magazine, and Shae Rose provided the photography and videography services.

To our newly installed Board of Directors: Sandra Fatmi-Hall, First Vice President; Janai McKissick, Secretary; Lola Battle, Treasurer; Kenneth Dwyer, Trustee (3); Bertina Busch, Trustee (2); Noel Busch, Trustee (3); Carl Battle, Director-At-Large; Lacandria “Candie” Washington, Director-At-Large; Deidre Graybill, Director-At-Large; and Dr. Latanya Nichols, Immediate Past President, thank you for answering the call to serve. I am honored to collaborate with such a dedicated and diverse group of leaders, and I eagerly anticipate the accomplishments we will achieve together for our community.

As we begin this chapter, my administration will operate under a clear framework: The P.A.C.E. Administration. P.A.C.E. stands for Participation, Accessibility, Collaboration, and Excellence. These are not just words, but guiding principles for how we govern, how we listen, and how we deliver results. Our focus will be on strengthening civic engagement, expanding access to information and opportunity, building meaningful partnerships, and holding ourselves to a high standard of accountability in everything we do.

We will be open and intentional about welcoming new partnerships and new ideas that support the well-being of Pine Hills. Whether you are a resident, business owner, nonprofit leader, faith-based organization, or public agency, there is space at the table for you. Service to Pine Hills can take many forms, from joining the Council as a member at one of our various levels, to supporting our work through sponsorships that help sustain programs, events, and advocacy efforts that benefit the entire community.

The Pine Hills Community Council has always been powered by people who believe in this community and are willing to invest their time, talent, and resources into its future. That legacy continues now, with renewed energy and a commitment to progress that is connected by community.

As we look ahead, I am excited about what 2026 holds for Pine Hills and for the Council. This will be a year of milestones, engagement, and forward momentum. I am confident that by setting the P.A.C.E. together, we can strengthen trust, elevate our collective voice, and ensure Pine Hills continues to grow as a clean, safe, and prosperous community.

Thank you for being part of this journey. I look forward to an incredible year ahead and to working with you in service to Pine Hills. Please see my call to action below this message as well as direct links to my PACE Administration Goals and our Board of Directors.

With Gratitude and Purpose,

Julien Serrano-O’Neil, ACNP
Council President
Pine Hills Community Council, Inc.