We are so proud to announce our 2026 Grand Marshal: Erica Deuso, Mayor of Downingtown

Centre LGBT+ selected Deuso to lead this year’s celebration as communities across the country continue to see increasing representation of LGBTQ+ people in public leadership. State College Pride, scheduled for June 13th in downtown State College, draws more than 7,000 attendees each year.

 

Sworn into office in January 2026, Mayor Deuso was elected after running on a platform focused on public safety, sustainability, and strengthening community ties. As mayor of Downingtown, she has focused her administration on those priorities while reinforcing what she calls the borough’s “Good Neighbor” spirit.

 

Deuso is the first openly transgender mayor in Pennsylvania and the only openly transgender mayor currently serving in the United States.

 

“Pride reflects the same values that guide my public service: community, honesty, and the belief that every person deserves life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” Mayor Deuso said. “In Downingtown we talk about the Good Neighbor spirit, the belief that every person belongs and every voice matters. Pride reflects that same commitment to community. I am honored to serve as Grand Marshal for State College Pride and to stand with a community that understands LGBTQ rights are not a partisan issue. They are fundamental human rights.”

 

“Mayor Deuso is a public servant who brings new levels of visibility to the experiences and challenges faced by transgender people in Pennsylvania, while also underscoring an important truth: trans people, and all LGBT+ people, are regular people who enrich their communities through their presence, visibility, and service,” said Cat Cook, executive director of Centre LGBT+. “Transgender people continue to face serious challenges in many parts of the country, which makes it especially meaningful to celebrate leaders who serve their communities openly and proudly.”

 

Mayor Deuso has a longstanding record of leadership beyond elected office. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Equality Project and supports efforts that encourage emerging leaders and grassroots civic engagement. Originally from Vermont, Mayor Deuso brings a strong sense of community shaped by her upbringing in New England. She is married to her husband Michael, and together they share their home with their dog and three cats.