National Football Foundation

South Region
Shawn Cerra has built his life around education, athletics, and helping young people reach their fullest potential.
 
A Florida resident since 1976, Cerra earned his bachelor's degree in social studies education from the University of South Florida and a master's degree in educational leadership from Florida Atlantic University. 
 
He went on to serve in public education for three decades as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal at J.P. Taravella High School for fourteen years before retiring as the director of athletics and student activities for Broward County Public Schools. He also coached youth football in Coral Springs. Today, he remains active as vice president of Cerra Enterprises, LLC, and as the director of athletics for the Broward Education Foundation.
 
Cerra joined the NFF Brian Piccolo Chapter in 1997. Named in honor of the inspirational Fort Lauderdale native and Chicago Bears running back whose story was immortalized in Brian's Song, the chapter has been a driving force in the community. Cerra has served as secretary, vice president, and, since 2011, chapter president. 
 
Under his leadership, the chapter forged a long-standing partnership with the Orange Bowl Committee, launching the Orange Bowl High School Football Showcase in 2017. The event has provided more than $9 million in financial aid to more than 400 student-athletes by connecting them with opportunities to continue their football careers at the collegiate level. In 2022, Cerra also co-created the Broward County High School Football National Showcase, which quickly became a premier Week One destination for many of the nation's top high school teams.
 
Cerra's passion for football extends deeply into his own family. His son Joshua played four years at Colgate University, while his son Griffin played three years at Southern Illinois and three at West Florida.
 
"I love the game of football," said Cerra. "This game has provided me and my family with so many phenomenal memories, lifelong friendships, and new opportunities. I will continue to promote the game while hopefully leaving a legacy for the next generation."
 
In addition to his sons, Cerra and his wife Kerry have a daughter Kylie.