Markus-Derek White to Lead Ministerial Alliance in 2027
The Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Florida selects a new president to take office on November 11, 2027.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in People
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The board of directors of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Florida has selected Markus-Derek White to serve as the organization's next CEO and president. He is scheduled to officially assume the leadership role on November 11, 2027, succeeding the Rev. JC Pritchett II.
Why it matters
This leadership transition aims to foster opportunities for younger faith leaders to address long-term community issues and continue advocacy for underserved populations. The organization seeks to focus on racial and economic disparities across the Tampa Bay area.
Founded in 1925, the organization has maintained a century of presence in the region and currently holds property on 22nd Street South acquired in 2021. The alliance is now preparing for a leadership vote in October 2026.
The players
Markus-Derek White
He is the pastor of the Historic Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church and the incoming president of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Florida.
Rev. JC Pritchett II
He is the current leader of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Florida who is stepping down to provide space for younger faith leaders.
Sean Thomas
He was previously identified as a potential successor to the Rev. JC Pritchett II prior to his death.
The details
Markus-Derek White, who currently serves as the pastor of the Historic Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, was chosen by the board following the death of a previous successor three years ago. The 2027 start date allows White time to complete his education and attend to his young family before taking the helm.
Timeline
The Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Florida was founded in 1925.
The organization acquired property on 22nd Street South in 2021.
Membership is expected to vote on the leadership selection on October 28, 2026.
Anticipated decisions regarding the Historic Gas Plant District occur in November 2026.
Markus-Derek White assumes the role of CEO and president on November 11, 2027.
Market Landscape
The organization is aligning its future leadership with the ongoing development of the 86-acre Historic Gas Plant District in St. Petersburg. This transition mirrors a broader trend of local faith groups consolidating influence to shape large-scale urban redevelopment projects.
Residents in the St. Petersburg area can expect the organization to continue its advocacy work concerning racial and economic disparities under new leadership. The alliance's focus on the Historic Gas Plant District remains a key area of public interest for the local community.
The takeaway
The upcoming leadership change represents a strategic effort to bridge the gap between historic community advocacy and future urban development. Residents should watch for upcoming membership votes and organizational stances on the city's changing landscape.
What happens next
The organization's membership is scheduled to hold a vote on the leadership selection on October 28, 2026, followed by anticipated policy decisions regarding the Historic Gas Plant District in November 2026.
Further reading
For more information on local leadership and community developments, visit the St. Petersburg People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by St Pete Catalyst.
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