Cynthia Chestnut

Professional Background

Chestnut returned to Gainesville’s commission in 2022 after earlier service on the city commission, in the Florida House and on the Alachua County Commission. Her academic background spans speech pathology and public administration. Her official biography describes leadership in county and state Democratic organizations, including chairing the Alachua County Democratic Executive Committee and helping found the Florida Democratic Black Women’s Consortium. She has also participated in the NAACP and local civic organizations.

Experience

• Gainesville at-large commissioner, returned February 2022; current term January 2025–January 2029.
• Former member, Florida House of Representatives, District 23.
• Former Alachua County commissioner and commission chair.
• Alachua County Democratic Executive Committee chair, elected to unexpired term 2014 and full term 2016.
• Founding chair, Florida Democratic Black Women’s Consortium, 2020.

Education

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  Florida A&M University: BS in Speech Pathology

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  Florida State University: MS in Speech Pathology

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  Nova Southeastern University: Doctor of Public Administration

Office & Authority

Municipal authority follows the city charter and Florida law.

Follow the Money

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Sources & Further Records

Biography & Background

Portrait & Credits

City of Gainesville

Official public-office portrait associated with the named member on the city website. No standalone reuse license is stated; preserve credit/source. Not asserted public domain.

Official Records

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