Kayla Kolar
Class XIV
President
Executive Director of the Gilbert Historical Museum since 2005, BA in Business Adminstration from Illinois State University, Have served on the boards of the Central Arizona Museum Assn. and the Museum Assn. of Arizona
Joined the board in July, 2006 I have a great love of our community–where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re going. I am dedicated to continuing to grow the program and keep it a leadership program of excellence.
I have two boys in the Gilbert Public Schools – David (12) and Matthew (16). My oldest son Alex (18) is a freshman at MCC. They are my precious handful, and we lead quite the active life!
___
Rudy Apodaca
Class XVII
President-Elect
Having had the opportunity to be a graduate of Class XVII created so many positive experiences. It highlighted my view of the town of Gilbert as the best place in the U.S. to live, work, and play. Our Leadership program is directly aligned with the mission of Mercy Gilbert Medical Center and we are proud to continue to sponsor our hospital leaders to be a part of this exceptional experience. I am so proud to be a part of the Gilbert Leadership board with so much volunteer talent willing to serve the community.
Gilbert is such a special community where my lovely wife of 32 years Roselinda, three adult children, and four grandchildren are so fortunate to be a part of.
___
Katharine Keller
Class XVIII
Secretary
Professional/Education Qualif: B.A. in German from Muhlenberg College; attended The Methodist Theological School of Ohio; have been a Christian Educator in both Presbyterian and Methodist churches for 22 years
Joined the board July, 2010 I offer to the board – enthusiasm, love of people, organization, esp. of events and information.
My husband, Julius, and I came from Ohio four years ago to start a new Methodist church in Gilbert, of which he is the pastor. We have six children and four grandchildren who live in the Midwest and the South. We are very active in the community– Julius serving on the board of Canyon State Academy and the Wesley Foundation, as well as being a part of the mayor’s interfaith discussion group. I am very active as a volunteer for the Gilbert Fire Department and just completed the Citizen’s Police Academy, besides serving on the Gilbert Leadership Board. We enjoy what the town of Gilbert has to offer.
___
Mark Sequeira
Class XVI
Technology Director
Owner and Creative Director of mjaStudios a graphic design and marketing firm that makes a priority of “Leadership as Service” creating materials for non-profit agencies and NGOs as well as area businesses. For 11 years, I was Senior Graphic Designer at the Tribune, and before that was Communications Director for Frontiers, an international non-profit based here in the Valley.
I have served on the Board of Finley Farms South HOA, Marketing Sub-committee, as well as Member, Gilbert General Plan 2011-2021, Subcommittee C.
I joined the board in 2008 offering my design and marketing experience on the Marketing Sub-committee and to help with Fine Arts Day. I am also an ‘evangelist’ for the program in the community and on social media. My design of the new website and forums have been a labor of love with the hopes of better connecting our alumni to each other and to opportunities in the community.
My wife Jennifer (Elementary Ed teacher) and I have been married since 1992 and have made Gilbert our home since 1998. We have four young creative kids that are currently home-schooled. We absolutely love Gilbert, the Library and the Riparian!
___
Mary Ann Shryack
Class XIII
Treasurer
Mary Ann joined the Gilbert Leadership Board in 2009. With her, she brought experience in marketing and in project and contract management from her previous career in the aerospace industry and from her current work as an Associate Broker/REALTOR® in residential real estate.
A resident of Gilbert since 1995 and a graduate of Gilbert Leadership’s Lucky Class XIII, Mary Ann enjoys serving on the board for this educational, engaging and fun program. Mary Ann received her Masters Degree in Business Administration (MBA) and her Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing, both from Arizona State University.
___
Bobbi Smith
Class XVI
Past President
Technical support at Go Daddy’s Gilbert location and self employed Residential Rental Property Manager.
Joined the board July, 2008. Served as co-chair of Fine Arts Day for three years, evolving it to Community Culture Day, encompassing all elements that create a quality community and highlighting the importance of arts, parks and recreation to the economic viability of our community. Past Chair of Gilbert Parks, Recreation and Library Services Advisory Board, where I have served since May 2007 and currently am working to implement our first comprehensive Parks Master Plan.
Gilbert Leadership gave me an incredible opportunity to learn about, connect to and give back to my community. I can accomplish more with my volunteer hours through this community network and with the leadership skills that I learned by participating in the program. I whole-heartedly recommend this program to anyone with a desire to serve in our community!
Lou and I have been married for 20 years and we have two boys, Louis and Tyler, that attend Gilbert Public Schools.
___
Linda Abbott
Class I
I am pleased to be serving as a board member for Gilbert Leadership once again. I an extremely proud of having been one of the original co-founders of this successful program almost twenty years ago. Additionally, I am a graduate of Class I. Over the years, what has assisted in making Gilbert Leadership one of the premiere programs in the state of Arizona, is the continued commitment of our board members to the original mission; to create a program that provides insights into the Gilbert community for those that work and live within the Town, and to promote leadership and service opportunities for our graduates.
My husband Tom and I along with our daughters, Tara and Lauren, have lived in Gilbert nearly twenty-three years. I am a social studies teacher for Gilbert Public Schools and am currently completing a term as a member of the Gilbert Town Council and intending to run again in the 2011 election. I was also on the Council from 1991-1995. I believe that Gilbert continues to be a fine place to live and work because of the investment of time and the endless contributions of members living and working in our community. I enthusiastically acknowledge those that are participants and sponsors of the Gilbert Leadership Program in assisting the Leadership Board, in our efforts in continuing to contribute to Gilbert’s quality of life.
___
Melinda Anderson
Class III
I am a proud graduate of the third class of Gilbert Leadership. I am a third generation native of Arizona. My background is in education with a Masters in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University.
My husband Gary and I have lived with our children Ryan and Lindsay in the community of Gilbert for 27 years. We are both interested in giving back to the community and enjoy volunteering and being involved with community activities and organizations.
Being appointed to the Gilbert Leadership board is an honor and privilege. I look forward to working with the Gilbert Leadership board to provide a valuable learning experience for the new class.
___
Millard Davis
Class XVI
I am a graduate of Gilbert Leadership Class XVI which comprised a remarkable group of talented and energetic individuals. Class XVI left an amazing hallmark and set new standards of achievement for all classes that follow. The vast accomplishments and contributions of those who have graduated from the Gilbert Leadership Program are evidence of the immense worth and benefit of this outstanding program.
I am excited to serve on the Gilbert Leadership board. Through this involvement, I hope to better contribute to the further development and prosperity of Gilbert. In addition, I volunteer with the Gilbert Citizens’ Police Academy Alumni Association and the Maricopa County Juvenile Probation Department.
As an area resident since 2001 and having been involved in Gilbert activities since 2002, I am pleased with the overall quality of life in Gilbert and the current plans to both sustain and to improve upon it.
I am a retired U.S. Government intelligence officer with diplomatic status. (1974-2001) I served over 27 years (with many years overseas in various countries and regions of the world). Some were assignments in or attachments to the in-country U.S. Embassy or U.S. military base.
___
Colleen Fisher
Class XVIII
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Colorado State University, Master’s degree in Social Work from Arizona State University. I recently accepted a job with Aetna Medicaid as a Continuity of Care Manager with Aetna’s corporate office. This is an exciting new position for me! I am implementing a brand new care management program across the country. I have over 20 years of experience as a social worker; primarily working in health care. I love being a social worker, and am active and involved in the National Association of Social Workers, Arizona Chapter (NASW-AZ). I also am on the Board of Trustees for the National Association’s Political Action Committee.
Joined the Board in July 2010 following my graduation from Gilbert Leadership. I bring my enthusiasm and love of Gilbert Leadership to the Board of Directors. So far I have truly enjoyed watching Gilbert Leadership participants grow as they go through the program.
Lived in Gilbert since 1998. I have been married for over 20 years to my husband Bill. We have two teenaged daughters, Nicole and Hayley, who both attend Gilbert Public Schools. I have 2 grown and wonderful stepdaughters, and three grandchildren, Sofie, Owen and Aria. Additionally, we share our home (or they share their home) with two obstinate dogs, Coco and Leo.
___
Mai Lin Garcia
Class XIX
Bio here
…text to follow
___
Patty Garcia-Likens
Class XVIII
Spokesperson for Salt River Project, Bachelors degree from the ASU Walter Cronkite School of Journalism Experience on various non profit boards including Gilbert Education Foundation and the Arizona Educational Foundation.
Joined the board in July, 2010 I feel I can bring to the board my experience in media relations. As a recent graduate of Gilbert Leadership, I can also bring to the board all that I have learned about the town.
I am a proud graduate of Class XVIII, and I’m very excited to be on the board. I learned so much about my town, and in the process, made some friendships that I know will last a lifetime. I’m proud to be serving on the Gilbert Leadership board, and helping each new class learn about the town of Gilbert and all it has to offer.
For the last nine years I have been one of four spokespeople for Salt River Project. I promote what SRP does in the environmental, education and non-profit community. In addition, I take all general calls from the media as needed. My son, Jake, is a junior at Gilbert High. My husband works at Sunrise of Gilbert.
___
Jonathan Hoellrich
Class XIX
As one of the proud graduates of Class XIX – Class of Innovation, I would first like to recommend the Gilbert Leadership Program to anyone living or working in Gilbert. Whether you are involved in your community or not, the information you will gather about the Town, its history, and the inner workings of the entire Valley of the Sun as it relates to the future development and planning of Gilbert will be eye opening. Just as important you will learn about “yourself”; as a person, as a leader and as a follower.
By bringing a background, degree and experience in municipal government related issues to the board, I look forward to being part of the future development of both the program and town. Currently – a business consultant and solutions provider with a company based in the east valley.
My wife and I are transplants from the northeast having arrived in Gilbert in 2004. We enjoy spending time with family, friends, our dogs and riding Harley Davidson motorcycles. Personal family history gives new appreciation for cancer survivor stories, research, and our attitudes toward life!
___
Mark Horn
Class VIII
I am a graduate of Class 8 and served on the Gilbert Leadership Board for a six year term beginning in 2002 through 2008. I am also a past President of the board. Having seen this program evolve over the years has been exciting and I am pleased to be back once again to serve on the Gilbert Leadership Board for a second time. I have been a resident of Gilbert since 1992 and have worked for the Town of Gilbert for over 21 years.
___
Howard Morrison
Class III
B.S. General Agriculture, University of Arizona, ’81, Th.M. Dallas Theological Seminary, ’85, D. Min. Phoenix Seminary, ’97
Joined the board July, 2010 I have historical experience with Gilbert, being a native, and coming from two long term Gilbert families (Mom is a Neely). I grew up when Gilbert had between 3-5,000 people, with one elementary, one junior high, one high school, and one stop light! I am have been married to Jana for over 26 years. We have three children: two attending Texas A&M University and one in high school at Chandler Preparatory Academy. I work with my extended family in the build out of Morrison Ranch, a 2,000 acre master plan located at Elliot & Higley Roads.
___
Matt Nebgen
Class XVIII
I currently work at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport as the Manager of Gateway Aviation Services. We are the Airport owned FBO (Fixed Base Operator – ask me what that means when you meet me). I have been in the aviation industry for 21 years. My education background has some college but primarily it came through good old fashioned hard work and determination and working my way up the ladder with America West Airlines and Swissport Fueling.
Joined the board July, 2010 I hope to be an example to future classes by giving back to Gilbert Leadership and the community that gave me the opportunity to participate and help lead. My desire is to help educate current business leaders of Gilbert and the East Valley of how they can impact the community beyond the business aspect of their job and be true “Leaders” in the community.
I have been married to my wonderful wife, Brenda, for 19 years and have a son, Drew, 18 years old and my daughter, Hailey, 12 years old. I love the game of golf and play as much as possible but do not mistake my love of the game for being good at it!
___
Marianne Pekala
Class XVII
I am proud to be a graduate of Gilbert Leadership Class XVII. With this experience, I was able to connect with an incredible group of people interested and engaged in civic leadership. As a member of the Board, I hope to more effectively use my leadership skills to give back to this incredible community. I own a small fundraising consulting firm and have the privilege of working with local and national nonprofit organizations. Formerly, I was a Development Officer for CHW Foundation – East Valley, Banner Health Foundation and the Good Samaritan Foundation. Prior to entering the non-profit field 12 years ago, I owned and operated Landmark Business Services, an office management company.
Volunteering is an active part of my life. In addition to this Board, I also serve on the Gilbert Historical Museum Board and from 2007 to 2010 was a member of the Board of Directors of the Pat Tillman Foundation. I have also served as a mentor advisor in the Pat Tillman Foundation Leadership Through Action(tm) program at Arizona State University. I am an avid sports fan and I love baseball, football, golf, and walking the coast of California in the San Diego area. My husband Mike and I live in Gilbert and have two children and two granddaughters.
___
Les Presmyk
Class II
Bio here
…text to follow
___
Theo Schiro
Class XVII
M. Ed; University of Massachusetts in Educational Leadership
I joined the board in the summer of 2009. With over 30 years as an educator, I am currently serving as Principal of Coronado Elementary School, a K-8 school in the Higley Unified School District. As a member of a Gilbert Leadership I have been able to help build connections between the Gilbert and Higley School Districts, and increase awareness of what the Higley School District has to offer to residents of Gilbert. I enjoy helping to plan and facilitate the Education Issue Day so I can share my passion for education with others.
Through participation in Gilbert Leadership Issue Days, tours, and involvement in the class project, I accomplished my goal of learning more about all of the components of what makes the Town of Gilbert work. Now that I have a better picture of the town and its needs, I am in a position to volunteer and contribute to the community in ways I never knew about before.
___
Debbora Woods
Class XIX
MBA – Organizational Leadership, Grand Canyon University
I had the honor of participating in Class 19, learning so much about our wonderful Town of Gilbert, and meeting amazing leaders within our community. I highly recommend the experience and can vouch that it will be one of the best journeys you can take!
I currently work with an educational technology company called Schoolwires, Inc. We specialize in website, collaboration, and communication technologies for K-12 school districts. I’m the Marketing Communications Coordinator, developing all of the marketing content for our products and services. I absolutely love my work and enjoy being with a company that values its people, is passionate about helping those in the education field, and provides solutions for teachers and students to excel in 21st century learning.
I am a single mom of two precious gifts! My son proudly serves in the United State Air Force Security Forces. He is currently deployed in Iraq. When he returns home, he wants to become a Gilbert police officer! My daughter is in middle school, band, volleyball, and anything else she can get involved in. She loves learning and staying active in our town! As a family we believe in giving back to our community, sharing from our blessings, and supporting this amazing Town of Gilbert.
During my MBA program, I studied servant leadership and believe it is the right path for modeling true leadership. I’m honored to be serving on the Gilbert Leadership Board of Directors and look forward to working with, and learning from, all of my colleagues and making a positive impact on our community.
