A Committed Team Making the Vision a Reality

The Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. staff is an experienced and determined team tasked with the implementation of the Atlanta BeltLine vision. Working closely with the Atlanta BeltLine Partnership, the City of Atlanta, and partner organizations, ABI oversees all aspects of planning, developing, and execution of the project.

Clyde Higgs

Chief Executive Officer

Clyde Higgs was named President and CEO of ABI in February 2019 after serving in an interim capacity for a year and a half and as Chief Operating Officer for three years. In addition to overseeing the company, Higgs works to expand ABI’s strong working relationships with private and public partners across the region, state and nation. Higgs brings 20 years’ experience in economic development, real estate, intellectual property, technology, strategic planning, design, real estate development, grant and donor funding, and government relations, with a diversity of projects including those that specialize in urban innovation, science and technology. He is a graduate of the University of South Alabama and holds a Master of Public Administration from East Carolina University.

Ruben Brooks

Chief Operating Officer

Ruben Brooks came to ABI from the Regional Center Director for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Multifamily Housing where he led the South East Region in making large scale commercial real estate investment and asset management decisions. Prior to HUD, he spent over nineteen years at Fannie Mae in a variety of leadership positions including Director of Multifamily Affordable Housing. A native of Baltimore, Brooks received a B.S. in Management from Morgan State University, an MPA. from the University of Baltimore, and an M.S. in Real Estate from Johns Hopkins University. He sits on the Board of Directors of Junior Achievement of Georgia and is a graduate of Leadership Atlanta’s Class of 2015.

Nicole Kimes

Chief Financial Officer

Nicole Kimes has over 17 years of experience providing accounting and financial reporting services to the real estate industry, both private and public. Her expertise spans across a wide range of financial responsibilities, including funds, operating and development properties, investor reporting, joint ventures and corporate operations. She also has specialized experience with the financial aspects of capital transactions as well as the compliance aspects of joint venture agreements, lender financial covenants, and REIT requirements. A registered CPA, Kimes holds a BS in Accounting from Southern University and A&M College.

Aasia Mustakeem

General Counsel

Prior to joining ABI, Aasia Mustakeem was a Partner at Smith, Gambrell & Russell focusing her practice on commercial real estate and institutional lending. Mustakeem is Chairperson of the Commission on Continuing Lawyer Competency and the Georgia Board of Bar Examiners; a board member of the Georgia Bar Foundation and the Georgia State University College of Law Board of Visitors; past board member of Grady Memorial Hospital Corporation; and a member of Leadership Atlanta. Mustakeem has been recognized as a Georgia Super Lawyer since 2004, and in 2003 received the Outstanding Woman in the Profession Achievement Award from the Atlanta Bar Association.

Nonet Sykes

Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer

Nonet Sykes is the Chief Equity & Inclusion Officer for the Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. (ABI) where she leads the development and implementation of policies and approaches that advance equity and inclusion for all facets of the BeltLine. Prior to joining ABI, Sykes was Director of Racial Equity and Inclusion at the Annie E. Casey Foundation. She is a graduate of the University of Baltimore, University of Maryland Eastern Shore and received her certificate in Organizational Consulting and Change Leadership from Georgetown University. Sykes serves on the board of the Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative. She is married with two children.

Vicki Cimkentli

Executive Assistant to the CEO

Vicki Cimkentli joined Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. in 2017 as the Executive Assistant to the CEO. Cimkentli has a long history of experience as an Executive Assistant and a Personal Assistant to various corporate executives. She originally hails from England and spent a number of years living in other areas of Europe before moving to the USA in 1996. Cimkentli resides in Marietta with her husband and their dogs. A self-confessed foodie, she enjoys traveling, the arts, and discovering restaurants.

Delores Hope

Executive Legal Assistant

Delores Hope brings more than25  years of experience as a Legal Assistant and 7 years as a Legal Document Specialist. Originally from Cincinnati, Delores’s legal experience began at Kirkland & Ellis, in Chicago, IL. She relocated to Atlanta to join Powell Goldstein (nka Bryan Cave, Leighton Paisner). Delores enjoys spending time with her one and only grandson and watching sports.

Allegra B. Hazziez

Executive Assistant to the CFO & IT

Allegra B. Hazziez has over 28+ years of experience as c-level executive assistant in healthcare, legal and government, including the City of Atlanta and State of Georgia. Allegra has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a minor in Management. She is a native of San Diego, California and relocated to Atlanta in 2005, where she raised three sons, who have served or are still serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. You can find Allegra, her new husband, Jabir and 2 furry children BoNnee, Rottweiler and T’Challa her male Frenchton on the BeltLine.

Takata Washington

Executive Assistant to the COO & CEIO

Takata Washington joined Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. in December 2019 as an Executive Assistant to the COO and CEIO. Washington has over 35 years of experience as an Executive Assistant supporting C-level executives in a variety of industries including local government, telecommunications, technology, supply chain, energy and law. Washington is a native of Montgomery, Alabama who relocated to Atlanta in 1997 from D.C. She has a passion for cooking, baking, sports, movies, music, working out and serving others. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering at her church, attending concerts and hanging out with her husband, children, family and friends.

Kelvin Collins

Vice President of Economic Development

envelopekcollins@atlbeltline.org

As Vice President of Economic Development, Kelvin Collins leads a comprehensive strategy to increase equitable economic outcomes for residents and businesses of the Atlanta BeltLine. Prior to ABI, Collins spent 15 years in leadership roles in both private and public sectors, advancing economic development solutions for low-income communities in New York City. Most recently, he served as the Chief M/WBE Officer at NYC Department of Education – the nation’s largest public-school system. His previous roles include President & CEO of the Harlem Commonwealth Council (HCC) and Assistant Commissioner at the NYC Department of Small Business Services. He is a graduate of Midwestern State University, Texas.

Jill Johnson

Vice President of Government Affairs

envelopejjohnson@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3674 (Office)

Jill Johnson joined Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. as its Government Affairs Director in December 2013. Her work includes managing issues of concern to the Atlanta BeltLine at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure and expand funding and regulatory support. She has more than a decade of experience lobbying at the Georgia State Capitol. She previously worked as the Political Director for Georgia Conservation Voters and on land conservation advocacy with the Georgia Conservancy. Johnson is a graduate of several leadership programs, including LEAD Atlanta, and has served on numerous boards, including Girls on the Run Atlanta. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Tulane University.

Dave Pierce

Vice President of Real Estate and Asset Management

envelopedpierce@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3538 (Office)

Dave Pierce joined ABI in 2015 and serves as Vice President of Real Estate and Asset Management with over 15 years of experience in real estate and transportation. He leads the real estate team’s efforts to acquire land needed to complete the Atlanta BeltLine. Dave also manages the real estate aspects of developments along the Atlanta BeltLine, as well as oversees management of Atlanta BeltLine assets. He graduated from Georgia Tech with an M.S. in City Planning along with a B.S. from Penn State. He lives near the Eastside Trail with his husband and is an avid runner and gardener.

Dennis Richards

Vice President of Housing Policy & Development

Dennis Richards came to ABI from National Church Residences, the nation’s largest not-for-profit provider of affordable senior housing, where he served as the Senior Director of Housing Development. In this role, he led all housing development efforts for the Atlanta MSA. Prior to leading the Atlanta market, Mr. Richards served as the Director of Finance for Housing Development, where he was responsible for all finance and cost accounting activities for housing development projects across the organization’s national footprint. A native of Columbus, Ohio, Mr. Richards holds a B.S. in Financial Management from The Ohio State University and an M.B.A from Franklin University. Mr. Richards is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Kimberley Wilson, R.A.

Vice President of Design and Construction

envelopekwilson@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3576 (Office)

Kimberley Wilson joined ABI in September 2019 as the Vice President of Design and Construction. Wilson provides senior leadership to the ABI design and construction project delivery teams, including the planning and implementation of trails, streetscapes, parks, and transit. Wilson has worked for both architectural firms and general contractors in Atlanta, contributing to landmark projects such as the Living Building at Georgia Tech and the restoration of both the Georgia State Capital and the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church. Her project experience also includes retail and mixed-use developments such as North Highland Steel, the MARTA Lindberg transit-oriented development, and Gasket City Lofts.

Meghann Gibbons

Vice President of Communications and Media Relations

envelopemgibbons@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3549 (Office)

Meghann Gibbons oversees communications, media relations and brand management. Gibbons brings more than 20 years of experience in communications, marketing, nonprofit, travel & tourism and corporate social responsibility. She moved to Atlanta to open the Georgia Aquarium, where for 10 years she oversaw the communications strategy that built its reputation as the largest and most engaging aquarium experience in the world. Most recently with Points of Light, she served as the Vice President of Communications & Public Relations. She graduated with degrees in marketing and multinational business operations from Florida State University.

Lynnette Reid

Vice President of Planning, Engagement and Art

envelopelreid@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3551 (Office)

Lynnette Reid joined the ABI team as the Community Engagement Advocate, served as the Senior Community Planner, and is now the Vice President of Planning, Engagement and Art. With approximately 20 years of public sector experience, Reed brings a wealth of experience related to community planning & engagement, land use, zoning, and regulatory development. Having worked with Fulton County Department of Environment & Community Development, and now the Atlanta BeltLine for the past 8 years. She holds a B.A. in Public Administration from the Trenton State College, and Master of City and Regional Planning from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She is a proponent of inclusive and equitable communities.

Kevin W. Burke, PLA, FASLA

Director of Design

envelopekburke@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3637 (Office)

Kevin Burke is the Director of Design for Atlanta BeltLine Inc. and has thirty-seven years of experience on a plethora of institutional, roadway, college and university, residential, and park projects. He coordinates design and construction efforts for all public open spaces and serves as the chair of the ABI design Review Committee. He implemented the requirement that all ABI projects initiated since 2018 will be SITES certified and was the organizer of ABI’s Organic Land Care Symposium which informed the public about more sustainable ways of maintaining our public spaces. Burke has a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture degree from Utah State University and in 2019 became a Fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects.

Yvonne Douglas

Director of Asset Management

Yvonne Douglas brings over 20 years of leadership in the Sustainable Operations Management Industry. Since relocating to Metro Atlanta in 2007, Yvonne has worked for Atlanta Public Schools, City of Roswell’s Public Works/Environmental and City of Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.  Yvonne most recently worked with Trimble’s Asset Lifecycle Management Division as the Local Government Business Development Executive for Southeastern States. She holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental science and Master of Public Administration in urban planning and serves on the Boards for the American Public Works Association, Council of Minority Transportation Officials and City of Atlanta’s Keep Atlanta Beautiful Commission.

Whitney Foster

Director of Finance

With over 10 years of accounting experience, Whitney began her career as an auditor with CohnReznick, a top 20 accounting firm. Before joining ABI, she worked as a Controller for PulteGroup, the 3rd largest US homebuilder, where she managed the day-to-day accounting activities for three divisions. She received her B.S. in Commerce and Business Administration with a concentration in Accountancy from the University of Alabama as well as a minor in Computer Science. In her spare time Whitney loves to run and has completed the top 6 marathons in the world, which include Berlin, New York, Boston, London, Chicago, and Tokyo.

Kynthia Gaines

Director of Construction

Kynthia Gaines joined ABI as the Director of Construction and has over 20 years of experience in the construction and real estate industries.  Early in her career, she spent several years in the private arena working for some of the larger contracting firms before transitioning to the public sector as an in-house owner’s representative.  She has managed various projects, including major multi-family renovations, new K-12 facilities, roadway improvements, streetscapes, and utilities projects. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Louisiana State University and a Master in Real Estate Development from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Shaun Green, PE

Principal Engineer

Shaun Green joined ABI in 2013 as Senior Transportation Engineer. His professional career has focused on urban, multi-modal transportation systems. Before joining ABI, Green spent ten years with the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA) and worked as a consulting engineer prior to that. He is a graduate of the prestigious North Avenue Trade School here in Atlanta and has been a bicycle commuter since 1994. He plays beer-league ice-hockey, does occasional band gigs as a drummer, and believes himself to be a lot funnier than he actually is. He and his wife have three daughters.

Kara Lively

Economic Development Director

envelopeklively@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3657 (Office)

Kara Lively brings over 15 years of economic development and marketing experience to ABI, serving most recently at the Decide DeKalb Development Authority and the Cumberland CID. She executes economic development initiatives to empower existing BeltLine businesses and markets the corridor as a premier business destination. She is on the board of the Carver Cluster Schools Foundation and the Board of Managers for the Casey Foundation’s Pittsburgh Yards development site. She is a graduate of Leadership Atlanta’s LEAD program as well as programs with the Urban Land Institute and the Atlanta Regional Commission. Lively earned a BBA from the University of Georgia and an MPP from Georgia State University.

Kim Nicholson, CPPB

Director of Procurement

envelopeknicholson@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3670 (Office)

Kim Nicholson leads the procurement team with goals that strictly align with ABI’s core values of equity and inclusion in all solicitations. She demonstrates exceptional procurement capabilities with a focus on implementing process improvements including development of policies and procedures, developing targeted plans, and delivering solutions within budgets and timelines. Nicholson has been a member of the National Institute of Government Procurement since 1997 and has served on NIGP local chapter boards and received the NIGP CPPB certification in 2004. She graduated magna cum laude from Lincoln College in Normal, Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in arts and a minor in business.

Khristie Power, PHR

Human Resources Director

Since June 2015, Khristie Power has been an invaluable member of the Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. (ABI) team, currently serving as the Director of Human Resources. In her role, Khristie’s expertise lies in the strategic aspects of HR, where she leverages her deep understanding of human resources to drive organizational success. Before joining ABI, she spent 16 years of experience in Atlanta’s property management industry, holding diverse roles such as Director of Community Development Programs and Human Resources and Operations Manager. Power has a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Emory University and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Georgia. You can spot Khristie enjoying the BeltLine on her walks and enjoying the surroundings.

Nathan Soldat, AICP

Director of Community Engagement

envelopensoldat@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3552 (Office)

Nathan Soldat joined ABI in February 2014. He came to ABI from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) where he was Senior Transit Planner working on regional transit coordination and planning. From 2011 to 2014 he also served as a BeltLine volunteer for Art on the BeltLine and spoke at community festivals. Prior to ARC, Soldat worked for the City of Decatur providing zoning review for all plan submittals and supporting master planning efforts. Soldat has a B.A. in Global Studies and a M.S. in Urban Planning from the University of Iowa. He is a dedicated transit rider and bicycle commuter.

Chelsea Arkin

Senior Housing Policy and Development Manager

Chelsea Arkin joined ABI in 2021 as the Senior Housing Policy and Development Manager to support the creation and preservation of affordable housing units along the BeltLine. She collaborates with public, private, and nonprofit partners to meet the goal of creating or preserving 5,600 affordable housing units within the BeltLine Tax Allocation District. An Atlanta native, she has devoted her career to the development of healthy, livable, and equitable communities. Arkin earned master’s degrees in City and Regional Planning and Public Policy from Georgia Tech and a B.A. from Bryn Mawr College. Arkin lives in the Cabbagetown neighborhood of Atlanta.

Nashida Asadullah

Communications Intern

Nashida Asadullah is a senior at Georgia State University, majoring in journalism and minoring in English. She has had the privilege of interning at various organizations to help cultivate her writing, researching and marketing skills. In her free time, she enjoys painting and playing piano. She is a proud Georgia native and is looking forward to growing in this role.

Layla Bellows

Community Data Analyst

Layla Bellows joined ABI in 2022 as the community data analyst. In this role, she supports our equity efforts by acquiring, analyzing and ultimately visualizing information about neighborhoods and residents surrounding the BeltLine. Prior to this role, Layla was a senior data analyst at the Atlanta Regional Commission and Neighborhood Nexus, where she specialized in developing interactive community data explorers and data communication. Layla holds a master’s in geography from Georgia State University, where she examined environmental gentrification and displacement; she also holds a master’s in journalism from the University of Missouri and a bachelor’s in psychology from Oglethorpe University.

Kayla Betterson

Senior Accounting Manager

With a combined nine years of valuable finance and accounting experience in the home building industry and real estate development, she has developed skills and expertise contributing to delivering exceptional construction projects. When she’s not working Kayla can be found watching various sporting events live or on TV or engaging in activities with family and friends. She thrives on staying active and fostering strong connections with those around her and is excited to bring that same energy and dedication to ABI. Kayla and her husband (and their pup Harvey) live in Tucker.

Brittany Brewster

Community Engagement Manager

envelopebbrewster@atlbeltline.org

With over 8 years of experience within Atlanta City Government, Brittany is experienced in advocating for Atlanta’s creative community through structured programing, partnership engagement, and corporate fund development. A Southwest Atlanta native and minority female business owner, Brittany’s love for the city that influences everything drives her not only to be a constant advocate for the betterment of the city, but also a change marker in how Atlanta is run. She prides herself on the ability to give back and provide opportunity to younger females who aspire to reign in male-dominated industries. Brittany is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University and has a master’s degree in marketing.

Mark Brown

Senior Paralegal

Mark Brown comes to ABI with 20 years of paralegal and legal analyst experience in practice areas including: complex civil litigation; commercial litigation; technology/software litigation; and real estate.  As a paralegal, Brown has provided substantive legal and research support, complex document management, and analytical support to teams of attorneys practicing on the federal and state court level.  He also brings experience as a behavioral researcher, having spent years managing research projects and publishing articles focusing on various social issues.  Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts from Paine College and a Master of Arts degree Georgia State University. 

Nic Capomacchia

Real Estate Project Manager

envelopencapomacchia@atlbeltline.org

Nic Capomacchia joined ABI in 2020 as a real estate project manager helping to acquire land and manage development along the BeltLine. Prior to joining ABI, Nic managed finance and real estate transactions for an international medical school and spent time in business management consulting. He obtained an MS in Economics from Georgia State University and a BBA in International Business and Finance from the University of Georgia. A native of the Atlanta area, Nic has US and EU citizenship and a large extended family. He enjoys traveling and experiencing new cultures and cuisines.

Lena Carstens, CGMS, GPC

Development Officer for Public Grants

Lena Carstens manages the full lifecycle of federal, state, local, and regional public grants from application to closeout. Since joining ABI in 2015, she has secured more than $73 million including federal awards from the following agencies: Department of Transportation, Environmental Protection Agency, Economic Development Administration, and the National Park Service. Her past work includes more than a decade in arts management, most recently with the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. She holds an MBA and an MA from Southern Methodist University and a BFA in Stage Management from the Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University.

Subrena Clark, MBA, CPPB

Procurement Manager

envelopesclark@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3692 (Office)

As the Procurement Manager for ABI, Clark procures and monitors all aspects of ABI’s procurement process. She brings 20 years of procurement experience. As a certified Professional Public Buyer with the Institute for Public Procurement, she has led and served on procurement process improvement teams. In addition, Clark facilitated intergovernmental programs locally with other procurement professionals. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree with the University of Georgia and a Master of Business Administration from the American InterContinental University. A native of Atlanta, she loves to explore the history of the city, and is a collector of skyline portraits.

Heather Clavé

Marketing Communications Manager

envelopehclave@atlbeltline.org

Heather Clavé brings over ten years of experience in communications, marketing, and public relations to ABI. She previously served as communications director for The GLOBE Academy, where she created and implemented a strategic communications and branding plan from the ground up. She also spent seven years at the Consulate General of France in Atlanta, managing communications and public relations for the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the U.S. Southeast. Clavé holds a B.A. in Multinational Business Operations and an M.A. from Florida State University. She can be found on the BeltLine with her husband and sons.

Jennifer Disotell

Senior Project Manager

Jennifer has been in the construction industry in Atlanta since 1987.  Following her graduation from Southern Tech in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Building Construction, her project portfolio has included renovation and ground-up construction for retail, hotel/restaurant, office, banking, university, and healthcare clients.  In 2012 Jennifer went to work for the University System of Georgia as a Construction Manager and rounded out her career as a Manager for Special Projects after 10 years of service.  Jennifer is excited about applying her many years of construction experience to be a strong contributor to the mission of ABI to bring great new improvements to Atlanta communities who have lacked the resources and amenities of the suburbs.

Rhonda Forge

Front Desk Office Coordinator

phone(404) 477-3003 (Main Office)

Rhonda Forge joined Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. as Office Coordinator in January 2013. She assists with daily office management and coordinates all front desk activities and duties. Forge, a native Missourian, transferred to the Atlanta area over 13 years ago with shipping giant Federal Express. She has worked in the transportation and logistics field for over 20 years. Rhonda received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Missouri and has her Certification as an Oracle Data Base Administrator.

Alex Gilliam

Social Media Manager

envelopeagilliam@atlbeltline.org

Alex is a passionate storyteller who joins ABI after running social media and marketing campaigns for well-known brands like the PGA TOUR, Lyft and Propel ATL. A Georgia Tech graduate, she has a deep love for all things Atlanta, including the BeltLine where she lived for two years. When she’s not crafting stories for social, you can find her exploring Atlanta’s restaurant scene, scanning the shelves at the local library, or binging her latest podcast finds.

Ebony Hillsman M.A.

Community Engagement Manager

envelopeehillsman@atlbeltline.org

Ebony Hillsman brings over 10 years of community engagement experience to ABI as a non-profit leader and communications strategist. Prior to joining ABI, Ebony managed community outreach in DeKalb County Watershed where she strategized outreach under the Consent Decree Program to improve the infrastructure county-wide. Hillsman holds a B.S. in Broadcast Journalism from Florida A & M University and a Master’s in Business Communication and Project Management. A native of Sanford, Florida, she has lived in Atlanta for more than 20 years. In her free time she enjoys art and cultural events in Atlanta and spending time with friends and family.

Gabby Gordon

Business Engagement Coordinator

Gabrielle Gordon (Gabby) is passionate about community service, growth, and engagement. During her undergraduate studies in social work at Georgia State University, Gabby found her passion for assisting individuals experiencing homelessness, which led her to work with multiple non-profit organizations in the City of Atlanta. She went on to obtain her master’s degree at University of Kentucky. There she found the motivation to begin working alongside community leaders to voice her perspective and research on ways to further Atlanta’s growth and healing for a better future for all of those who call Atlanta home.

Meghan Injaychock

Senior Project Manager

Meghan Injaychock joined Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. in 2012 after completion of a yearlong fellowship with ABI’s Design Team. Injaychock holds a bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture and a master’s degree in Environmental Planning and Design from the University of Georgia. Her master’s thesis focused on the creation of the BeltLine’s first Urban Farm located in Adair Park. Most of Injaychock’s responsibilities are with the construction and Design of trail and parks within the BeltLine corridor.

Natalie Jones

Economic Development Project Manager

envelopenjones@atlbeltline.org

Natalie Jones comes to ABI with a strong background in economic development, providing foreign-owned companies with aftercare services as part of the Global Cities Initiative (GCI), a joint project of Brookings and JPMorgan Chase. Prior to that, she managed the creative and logistical execution of a large awards program, and oversaw visits of foreign dignitaries. Jones is an active community member serving in the Junior League of Atlanta, Inc., and she is also a graduate of LEAD Atlanta’s Class of 2020. She is a proud Georgia State University alum and lives in Howell Station with her family.

Miranda Kyle

Arts & Culture Program Manager

envelopemkyle@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3636 (Office)

After an academic fellowship with ABI in 2014, and assisting with installations in subsequent years, Kyle was appointed to her current position in 2017. Kyle holds an MFA in Sculpture from the Savannah College of Art and Design, and an M.A. in Painting and Drawing from the Edinburgh College of Arts. She was awarded the 2013 Lee Kimche McGrath Fellowship for Arts & Sciences and the StarSeed Fellowship in 2014 to research the intersection of Public Art, Performance and Space in Riga and Pedvale, Latvia. She has curated exhibitions locally and internationally over the last ten years, ranging in disciplines from performance to public art.

Bryson Levisay

Government Affairs Project Assistant

Bryson Levisay joins ABI as the Government Affairs Project Assistant after serving in two national communications roles and gaining valuable legislative aide experience at the Georgia Capitol during its past redistricting special session. A native Atlantan, Bryson is excited to join ABI to help further the BeltLine vision and enact a long-lasting, equitable legacy for the city he loves. Bryson received a BA in Sociology from UCLA in 2020, and is passionate about bridging the gaps between elected officials, local leaders, and community members to build a better future for every Atlantan.

Laura Linman

Economic Development Project Manager

envelopellinman@atlbeltline.org

Laura Linman joined the economic development team in 2022 and is primarily focused on revitalization and support of the BeltLine commercial districts. Linman comes to ABI from the City of Chamblee, first as the city’s Business Outreach Coordinator and later as the Economic Development Director. She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and has her Master of Public Administration from East Carolina University. Aside from her enthusiasm for equitable and sustainable economic development, Linman spends her time exploring our beautiful city and finding the places that make Atlanta unique.

Noah McQueen

Economic Development Intern

Noah McQueen is an inaugural member of Georgia Tech’s Workforce for Tomorrow Fellowship who has been matched with our Economic Development team. He is an experienced Community Architect and leader with a sociology degree with background in community leadership and program development. The Washington D.C. native is the first in his family to attend and graduate college at Morehouse where he received a full scholarship for community service, completing over 2,500 hours of leadership and servitude roles. Noah’s work has led him all over the globe working tirelessly for those in disenfranchised communities. In his final two collegiate years, Noah’s global experiences included Haiti, Dominican Republic, Israel, Netherlands, and Costa Rica. This experience heightened his interest in both domestic and global political affairs

Valerie Milner

Contract Administrator

Valerie Milner has worked in the Procurement Industry for over 20 years in local government. She previously worked at MARTA in the Diversity & Inclusion department as a Certification Analyst, where she assisted socially and economically disadvantaged firms to become certified, positioning them to have a more level playing field in bidding and gaining contracts with prime firms. A native Atlantan, Valerie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Clark Atlanta University and a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from Kaplan University. In her leisure time she enjoys painting, attending plays and trying new restaurants.

Natalie Neil-Reid

Economic Development Administrative Assistant

envelopenneilreid@atlbeltline.org

Natalie brings to ABI more than 18 years of experience in the administrative field, having held her last position as Executive Administrative Assistant at JN Bank for 7½ years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and recently relocated to Atlanta from New York as she found the natives to be more warm-hearted and the weather more considerate. Natalie enjoys reading, music, crafting and spending quality time with family and friends.

Nancy Newell, PE

Project Manager

envelopennewell@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3653 (Office)

Newell has nearly 7 years of civil engineering experience with a focus on transportation design. Before joining ABI, she worked for a private consulting firm in Panama City Beach, FL where she worked on a variety of roadway design projects. She was a project engineer for the Coastal Trail, a series of multi-use paths that stretch over 24 miles in the Florida Panhandle. Newell earned a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Auburn University. She enjoys running, live music, traveling, and being outdoors. Newell lives adjacent to the Eastside Trail where she and her dog walk the BeltLine daily.

Jenny Odom

Communications & Media Relations Manager

envelopejodom@atlbeltline.orgphone(404) 477-3659 (Office)

Odom joined ABI in 2012, but her involvement started with the Atlanta BeltLine in 2007 as a volunteer. Her background is in media relations, website and content management, marketing, social networking, graphic design, writing, public speaking, and leadership. Prior to ABI, she worked as a marketing manager for intown Atlanta real estate firms and served as an U.S. Army transportation officer in Germany and the Middle East. Odom has a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Illustration from Washington University in St. Louis. She is an Atlanta native and resides in Decatur with her husband and two children.

Jori O’Hanley

GIS Manager

Jori O’Hanley joined Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. as GIS Manager in January 2017. She brings 16 years of experience providing GIS support in multiple areas. In her role at ABI, she collaborates with team members to support spatial data management, analysis and visualization needs, and manage ABI’s geospatial data. Her past work includes over 10 years in the environmental field, in consulting and federal government. O’Hanley holds a B.S. in Environmental Studies/GIS focus from Boston University, an M.S. in GIS from Northeastern University and a Master’s Certificate in Web Application Development from Boston University.

Kerri Parker

Design and Construction Administrative Assistant

After receiving her A.A. degree in Liberal Arts, Kerri began her career in the construction industry. She worked for years as an Executive Sales Assistant and Accounting Assistant for a corporate elevator company specializing in residential stairway lifts, home elevators and commercial handicap access lifts servicing all of California and Nevada. Upon moving back to Atlanta from California, Kerri expanded her accounting and executive assistant career in various fields including the electrical, medical, and food and beverage industries.  Kerri enjoys spending time with her family, fishing, road trips, reading, drawing and baking. Kerri and her family live in Roswell.

Marva Respres-Terrell

Senior Accountant

Marva Respres-Terrell brings to the team over 20 years of accounting and finance experience in the banking and construction industry.  A native of Atlanta, GA, she is passionate about mentoring young girls to become leaders and achievers in today’s society with It’s A Girls Thing Ministry.  She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Georgia State University. She enjoys working with youth and children, reading, skating, and traveling.

Jasmine Salazar

Asset Manager

envelopeJSalazar@Atlbeltline.org

Jasmine Salazar works directly with the Real Estate & Asset Management team to ensure ABI assets are in good condition. Prior to joining ABI, she worked as Community Coordinator at Gene Kansas | Commercial Real Estate and the company’s culturally based workspace, Constellations. Salazar holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Policy with a concentration in Economic Development & Planning from Georgia State University. She enjoys spending time with her loved ones, traveling to new countries, and trying diverse foods along Atlanta’s international corridor Buford Highway.

Shalvi Shah

Human Resources Generalist

Shalvi is an experienced HR Professional with expertise in employee relations. She has found the work to be profoundly challenging and rewarding. A graduate of Georgia State University, she is passionate about using her skills to drive cultural change in the workplace. In her free time, Shalvi enjoys jogging and practicing yoga with her beloved pup. With her people skills and commitment to career growth, she is always looking for new opportunities to make a positive impact.

Jay Suever

Senior Project Manager

Jay Suever joined ABI’s design and construction team in 2022. He brings to the table deep budgeting, cost management, and scheduling expertise, as well as the ability to steer complex projects to completion. In his previous role as a principal at HKS Architects, he completed the Norfolk Southern headquarters project in Midtown, a large urban project with two office towers and ambitious sustainability goals. Jay also managed other prominent Atlanta building projects such as Terminus, Allen Plaza, and NCR. A native Atlantan, Jay resides in Ormewood Park with his wife and two sons, just two blocks from the BeltLine.

Rashida Williamson, MPA

Community Engagement Manager

enveloperwilliamson@atlbeltline.org

Rashida Williamson joined ABI in 2020.  Prior to joining ABI, Rashida was a Scheduling Clerk with Hawkins, Parnell & Young law firm.  Her past governmental experience includes aiding for Senator Michael ‘Doc’ Rhett under the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus and working for the late Congressman John Lewis through the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.  She is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University, where she received her BA in Political Science and a graduate of Kennesaw State University, where she received her Master of Public Administration.

Jessica Woodyard, Esq.

Staff Counsel

Jessica is a native of LaGrange, Georgia. She graduated from Spelman College, Magna Cum Laude, with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. She received her Juris Doctor from Charleston School of Law, where she was the Managing Editor for the Journal of Alternative Dispute Resolution, Westlaw Student Representative, and Director of Membership for the Southern Region of the National Black Law Students Association. Jessica began her legal career as a real estate attorney. Jessica is an active member of the State Bar of Georgia, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Bethlehem Baptist Church in West Point, Georgia.