The Victim Service Center of Central Florida (VSC) announced that Catherine “Catt” Raley has been selected as the organization’s next Executive Director, following a comprehensive national search and succession planning process led by its Board of Directors.
Raley, who currently serves as VSC’s Program Director, will assume the role of Executive Director on September 16, 2026. She has been promoted to Assistant Executive Director as part of a structured leadership transition. Raley will succeed Lui Damiani, who is retiring after 13 years of dedicated leadership.
Over 10 Years of Experience and Excellence
Raley joined VSC in 2023 and has played a pivotal role in strengthening the organization’s direct service programs. As Program Director, she has provided strategic oversight of operations including the 24/7 Rape Crisis Hotline, forensic examination response, and survivor advocacy services. Her leadership has enhanced service delivery, strengthened multidisciplinary partnerships, and reinforced the organization’s commitment to trauma-informed, survivor-centered care.
“Catt has demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and dedication to our mission,” said Board Chair Adela Hathaway. “Her deep expertise in victim advocacy, combined with her collaborative approach and commitment to excellence, make her uniquely qualified to lead VSC into its next chapter.”
Prior to joining VSC, Raley served as Director of Sexual Assault Services at Sunrise of Pasco County, where she led program development, ensured regulatory compliance, and fostered high-performing teams delivering critical services to survivors. She began her career as a Sexual Assault Counselor, providing direct crisis intervention, clinical care, and advocacy.
Raley holds a Master of Arts in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Social Science from the University of South Florida. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as Executive Director of the Victim Service Center of Central Florida,” said Lui Damiani. “I am incredibly proud of the work our team has accomplished and confident that under Catt’s leadership, the organization will continue to grow its impact and serve our community with excellence and compassion.”
The Board of Directors expressed its gratitude to Damiani for his years of leadership and affirmed its confidence in a seamless transition under Raley’s guidance.
About the Victim Service Center of Central Florida
The Victim Service Center of Central Florida provides 24/7 crisis intervention, advocacy, and support services to survivors of sexual assault, violent crime, and traumatic circumstances, working to empower individuals and strengthen the community through compassionate care and collaboration.
