Preston Scott
Preston Scott is the incoming St. Petersburg and Sarasota Development Leader for Equality Florida. With over a decade of expertise in relationship management, major gift fundraising, and compliance, Preston brings a distinctive blend of professional experience and personal passion to this role, marking a meaningful return to an organization he first supported as the personal banker for Equality Florida more than a decade ago at C1 Bank.
Preston holds a Juris Master’s degree in Financial Regulation and Compliance from Florida State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida. Throughout his extensive career in progressive banking and nonprofit leadership, he has held senior roles where he excelled in building strategic partnerships, managing high-net-worth relationships, and leading community-driven initiatives. This comprehensive experience, combined with his diverse background, has instilled in Preston an unwavering commitment to protecting marginalized communities and fostering environments where the voiceless are not only heard but empowered to make a profound impact on their communities.
Having called the Tampa Bay Region home for the past fifteen years, Preston’s personal journey as a multiracial, gay individual has fueled his dedication to justice, fairness, and inclusivity. He is a strong advocate for creating safe spaces, believing they allow people to be their most authentic selves and enable everyone to thrive. Preston often shares, “Never underestimate the power of a smile, and if you’re looking for me, follow the sound of laughter in the room,” a reflection of his warm, approachable nature and his commitment to building genuine, lasting connections.
A passionate advocate for mental health and self-care, Preston finds renewal in watching sunsets and moonrises along Tampa Bay’s many scenic pathways where he enjoys long walks that offer moments of peace and reflection. He draws inspiration from listening to stories of triumph over adversity. Preston believes that every step of his personal and professional journey has led him to this moment, and he is eager to begin, ready to advance Equality Florida’s mission and amplify its impact across the state.
