Executive Team
Angie Ulibarri
Executive Director
Angie Ulibarri is known for her incredible ability to bring wild ideas to life! She is the vibrant force running the Georgia Festival of Trees, a role she cherishes for the countless wonderful people she has encountered on her journey. A family woman at heart, she is a proud mother of three children, and a doting grandmother to two grandchildren…and when she can find the time, she enjoys quilting and reading.
Sarah Bell
Senior Director - Retail
Sarah Bell has a knack for all things complex and creative. By successfully juggling her professional, volunteer, and personal commitments, she sets an example for everyone around her. She has an eye for creativity and enjoys sewing, crafting, and bargain-hunting. Sarah and her amazing skills are an integral part of the festival team.
Kathy Petterle
Senior Director - Venue
With over 40 years of experience in sales, marketing, and printing, Kathy now applies her exceptional leadership skills to volunteering - having volunteered for the Detroit Grand Prix, Habitat for Humanity, her parish Food Pantry, and even directed a float for the 2000 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Her adventures have spanned the globe from the Caribbean to the Arctic Circle. A resident of Roswell, Georgia, she cherishes the proximity of her family and dreams of her next trip to Italy.
Amanda Bridges
Senior Director
Amanda is a full-time Realtor and entrepreneur who loves traveling, live music, and great food. Known for connecting with anyone, she’s adaptable and always ready to lead or support. New to the Festival, she cherishes Christmas traditions and local celebrations. Fun fact: Amanda has been to over 1,000 concerts and will travel anywhere for music and food.
Angie Besseche
Senior Director
Passionate about crafts, holidays, and Yorkies, Angie is the mastermind behind the beautiful Department 56 Village display. Family-oriented with two children and seven grandchildren, she embraces the joy of Christmas and is always eager to try new things. She is a true lover of life and all things joyful!
Levette Anderson
Senior Director - Decorating
Festival Directors
Shanae Brown
Guest Services Director
A passionate traveler, dedicated church volunteer and loving grandmother, Shanae enjoys the exhilarating thrill of a motorcycle ride. Her career included roles such as a program manager, HR data analyst, and computer programmer/web developer - accumulating a wealth of knowledge and expertise prior to her retirement. She's an avid bowler and also possesses a penchant for shopping, volunteering and a particular liking for Munch Moose Popcorn.
Jackie Cobb
Development Director
With an impressive 35 years at Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, Jackie has a wealth of experience designing projects to support patients and their families as they navigate their cancer journeys. A native Spanish speaker, Jackie is driven with strong organizational skills and a creative mindset…and she loves adventuring to coastal destinations with her husband. Jackie's dedication and commitment makes her a perfect fit for the Georgia Festival of Trees leadership team.
Kim Cooper
Gift Shop Co-Director/Buyer
A seasoned professional with a ten-year tenure in owning a successful sales franchise, Kim now brings her expertise to a CPA firm. Kim has visited Disney World over a hundred times, making her a tried-and-true Disney enthusiast. She is a baseball aficionado, a Christmas enthusiast, and a lover of arts and crafts. When she's not exploring Disney's magical kingdoms or crunching numbers, you can find her enjoying chocolate cake paired perfectly with chocolate chip ice cream.
Meredith Davidenko
Pre-Festival Auction Director
Meredith is a family-oriented individual with a heart for community service. She enjoys celebrating life's moments with her husband, Dan, and their two children, Reagan and Cam. With a bright, festive spirit, she eagerly awaits the holidays to enjoy time with family and contribute to charitable causes.
Sylvia Dennis
Entertainment Director
Sylvia is a retired U.S. Postal Service employee with 40 years of service and former Directress of the Atlanta District Postal Choir. She now leads a multicultural community choir and loves sharing the joy of music. Sylvia enjoys how the Festival brings people together through the beauty of Christmas. Fun fact: she loves to laugh!
Robin Free
Pre-Festival Auction Director
Robin Free is diligent and passionate and thrives on organization and creativity. She is a stay-at-home mom who finds joy in the everyday details of life. She enjoys tennis, and working out, and has an intriguing affinity for true crime. Robin values the spirit of volunteerism and treasures the passion demonstrated by the volunteers she interacts with.
Gina Howren
Children's Activities Director
Meet Gina Howren, a resourceful and creative spirit, whose craftiness shines through everything she does. A Charleston, SC native, Gina is now a proud UGA fan and harbors a special affection for daisies. In her free time, Gina expresses her creativity through crafting and immerses herself in books, further fueling her imaginative spirit. A dedicated wife and proud mother, Gina also devotes her time to volunteering, reflecting her selfless nature.
Sarah Mauldin
Volunteer Director
A two-day Jeopardy! champion, Sarah's intellect is as impressive as her love for Dairy Queen's S'mores Blizzard. In her professional life, she serves as a law librarian at the DeKalb County Law Library. A passionate volunteer, she spends her free time with activities like knitting, crocheting, sewing, and hiking. Whether she's answering questions during a quiz bowl competition or in the library, Sarah always enjoys sharing her knowledge with others.
Angie Patterson
Development Director
Meet Angie Patterson, a woman of many passions. Now retired, her expertise lies in, organizational skills and relationship building. She enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, traveling, hiking, and supporting the Bulldogs. She is a passionate advocate fighting to end human trafficking in Georgia and has had a significant impact in the community.
Jocelyn Smith
Volunteer Director (on-site)
Jocelyn is the amazing director of hundreds of volunteers working at the festival. A lover of holiday lights and festive decorations, she enjoys transforming spaces into magical experiences. She cherishes moments with family and friends and loves to surround herself with uplifting holiday music. Jocelyn also has a knack for languages and is fluent in French and German.
Laura Ward
Pre-Festival Auction Director
Laura is a devoted mother, fitness enthusiast, and passionate volunteer committed to her community. In addition to her contributions to the Georgia Festival of Trees, she serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for neglected and abused children. She is a remarkable individual who is a testament to the power of service and dedication.
Festival Coordinators
Cynthia Bailey
Santa Photo Coordinator
10 years working in Healthcare Administration with strengths in publishing, team building, and problem solving, this volunteer has a growth mindset and a heart for service. She enjoys spending time with her wonderful teenage children, music, baking, cooking, traveling, and giving back. Christmas is especially meaningful as a time to exemplify the gift of giving. Fun fact: Recently taken up fishing with her kids! Also a big fan of Yanni music.
Dawn Boring
Surprise & Delight Coordinator
She works in state government and enjoys live music, wine tastings, afternoon tea, and trying new restaurants. The decorated trees bring joy and remind her of childhood visits to the Festival with her parents. With strengths in research and customer service, she always sees the good in people. Fun fact: she adores llamas and once had two visit her at home!
Jessica Brown
Christmas Brick Challenge Coordinator
Jessica is a demand generation marketer who loves the outdoors—especially time on the water, hiking, and hosting family and friends. She’s skilled in project and vendor management, campaigns, and website builds. Her favorite part of Christmas is cozy nights with her kids, surrounded by twinkle lights. She’s lived in seven cities over the past ten years.
Maurice Brown
Pink Pig Coordinator
A Retired Facilities Project Specialist, Safety Officer, and former Police Sergeant, he enjoys traveling, fishing, and bowling. He’s also a Certified Auto Tech who handles home maintenance with ease. His favorite part of the Festival is seeing the smiles as people celebrate the Christmas season. Fun fact: He loves riding his motorcycle and working on his classic car.
Carolyn Cooper
Ticketing Coordinator
A Senior Production Specialist who enjoys helping and meeting new people. Passionate about supporting those in need, especially during the holidays. A favorite part of the Festival is seeing the joy on children's faces as they take in the magic of the season. Outside of work and volunteering, values time spent with family—especially making memories with their girls.
Carmi Daniels
Volunteer Coordinator
Carmi is an international flight attendant and purser who loves travel, fine dining, and humanitarian work. As a diplomat’s daughter, she’s lived in over 20 countries. Her favorite part of the Festival is blending Christmas spirit with community impact. Fun fact: she’s a skilled fundraiser and networker who’s always ready to help with a smile!
Zirra Dixon
Business Office
Zirra loves crafting, reading, and playing word games. A general manager at a loan company, she has acquired many skills and claims to be a Jack of all trades but a master of few. She loves the Festival of Trees because it brings the joy of Christmas to so many people.
Paige Dobson
Paige is a digital marketer who brings her love of crafting, baking, and all things glittery to the Festival. A two-time “Best in Show” winner for Small Trees, she thrives on creativity and festive chaos. When not building campaigns, she’s reading mysteries with her basset hounds. Fun fact: she once decorated 200 royal icing cookies in a single weekend!
Deb Landress
Santa's Workshop
Thelma Little
Village Coordinator
With a background as both a chef and a florist, Thelma enjoys crafting, cooking, gardening, and event planning. Skilled in hat making and décor, she brings creativity and flair to every project. Her favorite part of the Festival is the decorative spirit that fills the space. Fun fact: Thelma is a secret comedian who loves making people laugh!
Mark Maher
Set-up/Tear Down
Meet Mark Maher, a man with a green thumb, a devoted father to two daughters, and disc golf enthusiast. Having gained considerable experience as a Home Depot Nursery Account Manager, he's as comfortable discussing poinsettias as he is handling power tools. A go-to handyman, Mark's a jack of all trades in the truest sense. His knack for pulling things together and affable character make him an integral part of the Georgia Festival of Trees.
Gail Newman
On-Site Auction
Gail is a spirited individual who finds joy in pastel drawing, traveling, reading, and engaging in rounds of bridge (not necessarily in that order). Starting her career in retail, she eventually found her niche in product development and management for various managed care insurance companies. Her talents extend to language mastery, organizational skills, and a sweet spot for baking.
Renee Rollins
Mrs. Claus' Kitchen
Renee is a retired special education teacher with 33 years of experience. She loves family time, church activities, and cooking. A woman of many talents, she loves cookie decorating and playing the piano. Renee uses her many talents in Mrs. Claus' Kitchen as she helps children (ages 0-99) create sugar cookie masterpieces!
Brianna Shealey
Fudge Coordinator
Brianna, a Financial Advisor at Raymond James, values family and spreading joy. She cherishes her close-knit family and enjoys activities like reading, writing poetry, and dancing. She loves the Georgia Festival of Trees for the happiness it brings to the community during the festive season.
Frank Ulibarri
Warehouse
Meet Frank, the insurance executive turned Head Elf, Waffles McSnowflake, at the Georgia Festival of Trees! Join him as he spreads joy and surprises to guests at the festival. Keep an eye out for Waffles - he's all about spreading holiday cheer!
Jeff Ulibarri
IT Support
Jeff Ulibarri is a Data Scientist with a love for music. A die-hard soccer fan, he regularly attends Atlanta United games with his wife, Ashley. Jeff is a dedicated community advocate, seeking to bring metro Atlanta together for a great cause. His great personality and professional excellence make him a dynamic part of the team.
Steven Ulibarri
IT Support
Steven is known for having a big heart and willingness to help wherever he is needed. As a senior software engineer he is detail oriented and efficient. These skills carry over in all he does. Steven is the father of two children and enjoys building LEGOs, playing games, and having fun adventures whenever possible.
Ann Wilson
Reindeer Games Co-Coordinator
Ann is a former Pediatric Neurology Rehab nurse who cared for children with serious conditions. She’s served as a Den Leader, Assistant Scout Master, and homeschool teacher. At the Festival, she loves seeing smiles and spreading joy—even behind her mask. Ann also enjoys teaching volunteers how to connect and work together in the festive spirit.
Charli Winbush
Santa's Workshop Co-Coordinator
A professional chef with a passion for cooking, dancing, and arts and crafts, this volunteer brings cheer and creativity to everything she does. Known for great communication and culinary skills, she loves putting events together and making people laugh. Her joyful spirit and positive energy help make the Festival a happy place for all.
Waffles McSnowflake
Head Elf
Meet Frank, the insurance executive turned Head Elf, Waffles McSnowflake, at the Georgia Festival of Trees! Join him as he spreads joy and surprises to guests at the festival. Keep an eye out for Waffles - he's all about spreading holiday cheer!
Departmental Support Volunteers
Tia Alloway
Guest Services / Ticketing Chair
Tia works in corporate event production and brings expertise in event planning, content creation, and social media. She loves fashion, shopping, and traveling. For Tia, the Festival evokes happy, nostalgic Christmas memories from childhood. Fun fact: she’s a proud mom of five and loves sharing the holiday magic with her family.
Tessa Causey
Venue Support
A retired Army combat veteran with 26 years of service, Tessa brings creativity, leadership, and a passion to every project. With a background in HR and event photography, Tessa excels at aligning vision with execution. New to the Festival, they love white lights, wreaths, garlands, and tablescapes. Fun fact: Etesta is the only living person with that name in the world.
Debra Cox
Support
Mitzi Dykes
Community Event Coordinator / Retail Support
Mitzi is a former teacher who loves writing, photography, and crafts. She is known for her creativity, resourcefulness, and strong organizational skills. Her favorite part of the Festival is the welcoming atmosphere, the beauty of the trees, and the friendliness of the people. Fun fact: she is a proud 9th-generation Georgian.
Katie Gill
Development Support
Katie works in District Four at Gwinnett County Government and is an executive leader driven by challenge and community impact. A Buckeye, Falcons, and Braves fan, she’s a foodie, animal advocate, music lover, and coffee enthusiast. She supports the Festival’s mission to end exploitation in Georgia. Fun fact: Katie once worked at the Columbus Zoo!
Debbie Glass
Santa's Photos Support
Debbie works in wholesale children’s clothing sales and enjoys reading, exercising, and beach days. She brings strong organization, teamwork, and interpersonal skills to every project. Her favorite part of the Festival is the holiday excitement—especially the Pink Pig and Santa. Fun fact: her all-time favorite movie is The Wizard of Oz.
Paulette Gray
Development Support
Paulette is a customer service rep who loves meeting new people and spreading joy. When not decorating for the holidays, she’s enjoying Aqua Zumba or chatting away—she proudly admits she can talk! Her favorite part of the Festival is getting creative with decorations and connecting with others through the festive spirit.
Daisy Harris
Decorating Coordinator
She has worked in design for over 30 years and holds a full-time role with the DeKalb School District. A passionate decorator—especially of Christmas trees—she loves seeing the creativity and beauty at the Festival while supporting a great cause. Fun fact: she won the People’s Choice Award at the 2023 Festival of Trees.
Wandria Hines
Reindeer Games Support
Wandria is a K–12 educational leader who enjoys golf, pickleball, tennis, traveling, and spa days. With skills in communication, marketing, and tech, she brings creativity to every project. She loves decorating during the Christmas season and being part of the festive spirit. Fun fact: Wandria is a twin!
Brenda Howard
Retail Support
Brenda worked in Guest Experience at State Farm and loves reading, walking, gardening, and spending time with grandkids. She is passionate about serving others and connecting with people, she enjoys the beauty of the trees at the Festival. Fun fact: she has an adventurous spirit and embraces new experiences with joy.
Jerry Magnuson
Development Support
Jerry recently retired after 40 years as an HR Specialist with the Department of Veterans Affairs. He enjoys golf, travel, singing, and going to the theater. A good listener with strong organizational skills, Jerry values the Festival’s mission to fight sex trafficking in Atlanta. Fun fact: he loves to travel and is always ready for his next adventure.
Nancy Mancine
Auction Support
Nancy works part-time at guest services at Gas South and thrives on connecting with people. A proud '80s rock fan and avid gardener, she also runs several Facebook pages. Her favorite part of the Festival is the fun for all ages. Fun fact: her high school nickname ``Boom Boom`` inspired by fighter Ray Mancini, has stuck for over 40 years!
Brenda Mitcham
Retail Support
She is a retired professional who loves dogs, gardening, travel, and cheering for the Georgia Bulldogs. Known for a strong design aesthetic and work ethic, she enjoys seeing the creativity of the trees and wreaths. Her favorite part of the Festival is the magical Christmas spirit it brings to others. Fun fact: she’s known for her great sense of humor.
Dana Rice
Entertainment Support
Dana is a singer/songwriter and arts educator who enjoys reading Archie comics and admiring beautiful things. Skilled in music, event planning, and public speaking, she brings creativity to everything she does. Her favorite parts of Christmas are family gatherings, lights, nativity scenes, music—and of course, food! Fun fact: Dana swears she’s fun, even if it’s hard to pick just one fact!
Peggy Sensabaugh
On-Site Auction - Wreaths
A passionate traveler, church volunteer and loving grandmother, Peggy enjoys the thrill of a motorcycle ride. She worked as a program manager, HR data analyst, and computer programmer/web developer - accumulating great knowledge and expertise before her retirement. She's an avid bowler and loves shopping, volunteering and eating Munch Moose Popcorn.
Detra Terrell
Support
Meet Detra, a passionate individual with a heart for service and love for her community. From being an avid sports fan to enjoying movies, arts, theatre, and travel, she brings a rich tapestry of interests and experiences to the table. Her fond memories of volunteering at the Festival of Trees resonate deeply with her, and she is excited it's making a comeback in Gwinnett County.
Debra Tonge
Debra is a financial planner who enjoys tennis, golf, scuba diving, and beach days. She’s fostered dogs for over 10 years and is known for organizing memorable parties. Her favorite part of the Festival of Trees is the meaningful outreach it offers—bringing people together through joy, celebration, and a shared sense of purpose.
Geri Willich
Geri is an insurance consultant who enjoys hiking, church, and riding roller coasters. With expertise in people banking and financial management, she brings both energy and insight to every interaction. Her favorite part of the Festival is seeing people enjoy the holidays together. Fun fact: Geri is a big fan of Disneyland and its magical spirit.
Barbi Wood
Volunteer Support / Info Desk Coordinator
Barbi is a retired program manager who now spends her time walking dogs at Paws Atlanta, reading, and enjoying music. Detail-oriented and passionate about volunteering, she’s excited to join the Festival of Trees for the first time. Her favorite part is the festive lights and decorations. Fun fact: Barbi is also a professional pianist and organist.
Jeff Wood
Pink Pig Support
Jeffrey managed a nuclear calibration lab and umpired softball and baseball for 30 years. While he doesn’t claim many hobbies, he’s known for his dedication and steady presence. Fun fact: he has a fondness for the Pink Pig—an unexpected but charming detail that adds a touch of whimsy to his story.
