FOTA Board of Directors
Joel Arnold | President
Joel Arnold proudly calls Downtown Flint home. By day, he’s a city planner, serving as the Planning and Advocacy Manager at Communities First, Inc. With degrees from Michigan State University and University College Dublin, Joel has built a career in planning and community development, working in cities across Michigan and even spending some time in Philadelphia.
He’s in his fourth year on the Friends of the Alley board and also lends his time and energy to Flint Residents for Stronger Neighborhoods, Abundant Housing Michigan, and Flint Fresh. Joel is an active member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Downtown Flint, and he stays engaged politically—volunteering and working on campaigns throughout Flint and Genesee County to support progressive causes.
Outside of work and advocacy, Joel enjoys playing the trombone, cheering on MSU football and basketball, biking Flint’s awesome trail network, and hanging out with friends and family. He’s especially passionate about creating walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods and believes cities are one of humanity’s best inventions—offering endless potential for connection, growth, and opportunity.
Lori Ross | Vice President
Lori Ross is a dynamic leader who balances a successful career in sales and marketing with a deep passion for community service. As a Territory Business Manager for Haleon Health Partners, she thrives on building relationships, driving growth, and helping businesses connect with the right solutions.
But Lori’s impact extends far beyond the corporate world. She’s an active force in the Flint community, serving on the Board of Directors for Friends of the Alley, where she helps transform public spaces into vibrant cultural hubs. She’s also a Diamond Mentor with The Scholars Etiquette and Self Image Institute, guiding young people in leadership, confidence, and professional etiquette.
Her love for the arts and community engagement shines through her work with the Flint Institute of Arts, where she serves on both the Visitor Experience Committee and the Planning Committee for The Community Gala, one of the area’s most anticipated events.
With degrees in Organizational Leadership, Marketing, and Management, Lori has built a career on strategy, innovation, and mentorship. Whether she’s helping businesses grow, mentoring the next generation, or curating meaningful community experiences, she’s always focused on making an impact.
Outside of her career and volunteer work, Lori finds joy in her personal life. She has been happily married to her husband, Damon Ross, for nearly 12 years, embracing life’s journey together with love and laughter. She is also passionate about celebrating Black excellence, exploring creative projects, and sharing insights on life, leadership, and legacy.
Ashley Diener | Treasurer
Ashley Diener is a Senior Accountant at Yeo & Yeo, where she focuses on tax and consulting. She earned her Master’s in Accounting from Baker College and is currently studying for the CPA exam.
She’s been an active member of the Friends of the Alley board for four years and has served as Treasurer for the past two. In addition to keeping FOTA’s finances on track, Ashley has played a key role in the success of Alley Fest by leading artist booking efforts. From scouting talent to coordinating logistics and communication, she’s helped bring diverse, high-quality performances to the event—helping create one of Downtown Flint’s most vibrant and creative celebrations.
When she’s not diving into spreadsheets or planning FOTA events, Ashley enjoys spending time with her husband and their cats, as well as hanging out with friends and family. She’s a fan of building Legos, playing both board and video games, and always has a podcast, playlist, or audiobook going in the background whenever she can.
Deborah Massimino | Secretary
Deborah Massimino is currently serving her second term as Secretary on the Friends of the Alley board, where she brings a strong background in nonprofit work and operations to support the organization’s mission. A dedicated Flint resident, Deborah is also proud to contribute as the Executive Assistant of the Flint Institute of Music, where she continues her commitment to community engagement.
Deborah shares life with her husband, son, stepson, and a lively group of five cats. Her care for animals extends beyond her household—she’s passionate about supporting community cats in the Flint area with TNR and fostering.
In her free time, Deborah enjoys thrifting for unique treasures, attending live concerts, exploring interesting architecture, and traveling whenever she gets the chance. She is deeply committed to the revitalization of Flint and believes in the power of investing time, energy, and resources into making the city a better place for everyone. Through her work with Friends of the Alley and beyond, she continues to be a passionate advocate for positive change in her community.
Andy Holmes | Director
Andy Holmes has been a proud Flint resident for seven years and is a dedicated director and community advocate with nearly two decades of experience in board governance, organizational development, and project leadership. He holds an MBA from the University of Phoenix.
As a director at a nonprofit education services provider, he manages multiple boards across several states, ensuring effective governance, compliance, and stakeholder engagement. His expertise in project management, policy development, and nonprofit leadership helps drive meaningful initiatives that strengthen communities.
Beyond his role with Friends of the Alley, Andy is actively involved in other community organizations, including the Rotary Club of Flint, Build Now Inc., and the College Center Condo Association.
Passionate about Flint’s arts, community engagement, revitalization, and efforts to enhance beautification and walkability, Andy collaborates with fellow board members to create vibrant, accessible spaces that enrich the city’s character and quality of life.
Shaun Wright-Verdun | Director
Shaun Wright-Verdun is the owner of Brydge Entertainment Consultants, an entertainment event production company based in Washington, D.C., that he started in 2008, and a High School Educator where he teaches Financial Literacy and College/Career Prep. Shaun, a Flint native, has spent the majority of his adult life living in New York City and Washington, D.C. Shaun has a genuine love for the performing arts and service to others.
Before returning home to Flint for a career opportunity, Shaun has worked as the marketing and media director at John Robert Power’s performing arts training and development center in Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland. He also worked as a talent booker at one of the top talent agencies in New York City. Having grown up with a mother who is a Grammy award-nominated vocalist, it was only natural for Shaun to follow a path that lead to entertainment and arts.
Shaun is a Monroe College and Howard University Alumni and spends his spare time going on television, movie, and commercial auditions, traveling, spending time with family, and mentoring young people. Shaun’s passion to help others succeed can be seen by the huge successes of his past staff and mentees. Shaun’s other passion is helping make a difference in his communities by making them fun and beautiful.
Shaun has been on the FOTA board of directors since 2024.
Sheena Harrison | Director
Sheena Harrison is the founder of Drinks of Essence Inc. and Fruits of Elegance Food Truck, bringing a creative and community-focused flair to Michigan’s hospitality scene. A Flint native with a background in Sociology from Oakland University, Sheena blends her social work roots with a passion for mixology and food to create unforgettable experiences.
Since launching Drinks of Essence in 2015—originally a mobile bartending and chocolate-covered strawberry business—Sheena has grown it into Mid-Michigan’s only Black-owned bartending school, where she’s trained over 700 students. With 17+ years in the industry, she’s certified in Mixology, Wine, Flair Bartending, and ServSafe Alcohol, and has earned state and local recognition for her work.
Beyond business, Sheena serves on the boards of Friends of the Alley and the Downtown Small Business Association. She’s a proud mom of two, a lover of travel, and a firm believer in using education and entrepreneurship to uplift communities.
Stephanie Garcia | Director
Stephanie Garcia is a seasoned professional with over 20 years in the healthcare industry. Currently serving as a Senior Business Development Manager in medical software, she leverages her extensive experience as a Medical Assistant, EMT, and Clinical Research Coordinator to drive innovative solutions that enhance patient care and streamline operations.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Stephanie is a dedicated volunteer, actively supporting environmental initiatives and advocating for underserved communities. Her commitment to service reflects her belief in creating a better world for future generations.
At home, Stephanie is a proud parent and grandparent, known for hosting lively themed parties that bring family and friends together. She finds joy in cooking, attending live music events, camping, exploring nature, and engaging in trivia challenges. Stephanie’s vibrant personality and diverse interests make her a cherished member of both her professional and personal communities.
Jarielle Nettles | Director
Jarielle Nettles is a creative force with a deep love for beauty, storytelling, and community. Whether she’s behind a desk, behind the scenes, or behind a pen, she’s always finding new ways to connect people and bring out the best in her surroundings. With a background that spans customer service, journalism, the arts, and even cosmetology and esthetics, Jarielle brings a well-rounded and thoughtful approach to everything she does.
In her role as Receptionist and Volunteer Coordinator at the Flint Institute of Music, she blends organization with heart—making sure every guest and volunteer feels seen and valued. As a freelance journalist for Flintside News, Jarielle tells the stories that matter most, shining a light on the voices, places, and movements shaping her community.
Her appreciation for beauty—whether in a written piece, a well-orchestrated event, or a perfectly blended makeup look—runs deep. Jarielle is constantly exploring new ways to express herself while uplifting others, and she approaches her work and life with intention, grace, and creativity. For her, every project is an opportunity to grow, to serve, and to leave the world just a little more vibrant than she found it.
Aiesha Lewis | Director
Aiesha Lewis is a multi-faceted creative and community advocate rooted in the city of Flint. With experience as an educator, mentor, coordinator, and organizer, she brings an innovative approach to community engagement. She currently serves as the Community Programs Coordinator at the Flint Institute of Music, where she develops and coordinates programming that uplifts youth and families while fostering meaningful connections across Flint’s diverse communities.
In 2021, Aiesha founded Sprout Worldwide as a platform to support local artists and create intentional spaces for cultural expression. Since then, Sprout has evolved into a hub for creative direction and event coordination, working closely with local curators and community leaders to streamline logistics and bring ideas to life from concept to production.
With a passion for collaboration and a commitment to cohesion through art, culture, and community, Aiesha continues to build bridges that highlight the vibrancy and resilience of Flint.
Kerale Cayton | Director
Kerale Cayton, born and raised in Flint, Michigan, is an event specialist, entrepreneur, and community advocate with a passion for bringing people together. A proud graduate of Flint Northwestern High School’s Class of 2008, he’s spent over a decade creating events that range from intimate local gatherings to major celebrations like Flint’s annual Juneteenth Festival.
What started as a hobby in 2010 quickly turned into a professional calling. Kerale began building relationships with local businesses, organizations, and city leaders, using those connections to develop impactful events that support both cultural growth and economic development in Flint. His work has played a key role in boosting small businesses and shaping the city’s entertainment scene.
Kerale also serves on the board of Flint Friends of the Alley, where he helps lead efforts to revitalize public spaces and promote local entrepreneurship. His vision and dedication continue to contribute to a more vibrant, connected Flint.
Outside of his professional life, Kerale is a proud father to his two sons, Kerale Jr. and Kairo. He enjoys bowling, watching sports, and spending quality time with his family. Whether he’s planning an event or cheering from the sidelines, Kerale brings energy, creativity, and heart to everything he does—leaving a lasting impact on his community.