June Piscitelli, PhD
June Piscitelli, PhD is the Chair of the Ruth’s List Florida Action Committee (C4), where she leads board-level engagement for one of Florida’s most politically active nonprofits dedicated to advancing women in public office. In this role, she oversees major donor relations, collaborates with state and national politicians, and guides a team focused on implementing programs that recruit, train, and support women running for office. June is also deeply involved in strategic planning, fundraising, and executing signature events, including the organization’s largest annual gala.
Her commitment to women’s political engagement builds on decades of experience, beginning in the 1980s on the staff of U.S. Senator Paula Hawkins. After earning her PhD in English Literature from the University of Miami, where she was hooded by Donna Shalala, June taught at Florida Atlantic University for nearly a decade and later supervised a large team in educational technology. In 2012, she returned to active political involvement, working on campaigns, serving on the Florida Democratic Party Board of Trustees, and joining the National Finance Committee and Emily’s List Majority Council.
June combines her extensive political expertise with a passion for mentorship and advocacy. Through Ruth’s List Florida, she connects aspiring women leaders with the resources, guidance, and opportunities they need to succeed in politics. Outside of her professional life, she is a dedicated distance runner, having completed 19 full marathons, including the Boston Marathon, reflecting the same endurance and dedication she brings to her work in advancing women’s leadership.
• University of Miami - PhD
• Boston Marathon Qualifier
• Ruth’s List Florida Action Committee
• Ruth’s List Action Committee
• Emily’s List
• Florida Democratic Party
• Phi Beta Kappa
• Democratic National Committee
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to returning to education and earning my PhD in English literature. This achievement was a defining moment in my journey and has provided a strong foundation for all of my subsequent work.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to carefully consider the role you want and learn from women who have been there—whether in office or running for office. Politics can be challenging to navigate alongside other responsibilities women often carry, so explore the path fully before making a decision. And remember: it’s never too late. I didn’t start college until I was almost [AGE] and went on to earn a PhD—your journey can start at any point.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is engaging and recruiting younger women, particularly those in their early 20s to mid-30s, who are often overlooked and face barriers that can make civic engagement intimidating. At the same time, there is a tremendous opportunity to identify, educate, and encourage these young women to run for office and to help advance laws and policies that better support women.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are empowering women, serving the public, committing to lifelong learning, and striving to make the world a better place.
Locations
Ruth's List Florida Action Committee
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33305