Meet Our Team
Lisa Hulse—Vice President of Operations
Lisa comes to The Villages with a B.S. in Nursing, a Public Health Nursing sub-specialty, a Psychology Minor, and a huge heart. With a list of previous experiences as wide as her sunny smile, Lisa has worked in hospital settings as well as home health care settings, and with all ages, from children to seniors.
Serving as both a direct-care nurse and later as director of clinical services across a broad range of communities, Lisa knows about the caring profession from every angle. She understands the importance of great communication, responsive management, ongoing training, and leading by example.
Surprised by the pervasive “friendliness” she found upon her arrival at The Villages from a large, national company, Lisa was smitten by the number of smiles and hugs exchanged on a daily basis in all four of our communities. She makes her home in Cambria with husband Hank and children, Amber and Jordan.
“My goal is simple,” she says. “To serve our residents well, in all ways, every day."
Jane A. Lefebre—Director of Community Relations
Jane’s affinity for the older, wiser generation began with her grandmother, who shared the house where she was raised. Continuing in that tradition, Jane’s own mother now lives with her, in a cottage nearby. Even her father was older than most, being 50 when Jane was born. “I guess you could say I’ve always been comfortable with older people,” she smiles.
Jane has a long career in sales and marketing, with many years helping seniors and their families find just the right fit for their unique needs. “Working in the senior housing industry is very special. I love a job that’s built on relationships,” she says.
Born in San Francisco and raised in the Bay Area, Jane found her way to the Central Coast to attend Cal Poly. She raised three children here, Amanda, Courtney and Taylor, but now finds herself with an empty nest. She makes her home in Templeton where she loves to welcome friends for dinner or a weekend getaway. And with ancestral roots in Europe, she also loves to travel when time permits.
Susan Stewart—Community Relations Coordinator
A San Luis Obispo resident since she was 12, Susan Stewart has accumulated a lifetime of school mates, colleagues, and friendships that run deep and strong. She has been a published written voice in our community for two decades, telling the stories of the people, places, and adventures that make the Central Coast so uniquely appealing.
Susan has had a varied working life, beginning in hospitality (restaurants) to work her way through both her BA in Sociology from UC Santa Barbara, and her MA in Education from Cal Poly SLO. She has worked in several “helping” agencies as a counselor and health educator, was a teacher and public speaker in the crime prevention arena; is a writer for local and national publications; she even served a stint as a tour guide for Hearst Castle. Susan brings six years’ experience in the Senior Housing industry to her current position at The Villages, where she feels privileged to talk with, guide, and inform people who are seeking a change in their lives.
In her spare time, Susan loves to hike the endlessly beautiful hills, mountains, beaches and trails all along the Central Coast. She also reads, writes, gardens, and practices yoga to keep her body and her mind in shape. “I like to be flexible,” she smiles.
Spring Angelotti—Community Relations Coordinator
“I always planned to work with people,” said Spring Angelotti, whose easy smile and ready laughter puts everyone at ease, confirming she made the right choice.
Born and raised in the Hollywood Hills, Spring recalls a Girl Scout leader who nourished her natural creativity and taught her to believe in herself. She went on to earn two degrees—one in General Education and one in Human Services, plus a certification in Early Childhood Development—all of which serve her well in her current position.
As she works with residents and their families, she focuses on what is best for each individual. “I really believe in what The Villages offers people, and I love adding value to their lives in whatever way we can.”
In her off time, Spring has an active family life of her own, but she especially enjoys spending time with her grandson.
Linda Baptista—Business Office Manager
“The minute I walked into The Villages, it felt like home,” said Linda of the day she interviewed for the Lead Receptionist position at our Assisted Living community, Garden Creek.
Bringing her trademark calm and playful sense of humor to the demanding tasks required of the first person our residents and families see on any given day, Linda took to her new job like a duck to water. A keen sense of organization and order won her a quick promotion to Assistant Administrator.
More recently, Linda was promoted to Business Office Manager for our independent communities. Now, she’s not only the first friendly face we see every day, but she’s also the go-to person for residents, families, and staff alike.
“I was looking for a way to be of service, to help others,” she says. “And working for The Villages gives me that, plus a big bonus: Even after many years, I am still learning about life and love from our residents on a daily basis.”
When she’s not at work, Linda can often be found knee deep in pots and plants at the home she shares with her husband and her mother in Nipomo.
Natalie Ellingson—Life Enrichment Director
Natalie is “a natural” at her chosen profession, getting her start early with her first job. At just 16, she landed a job at the same senior community where her mother worked, one very much like ours. Gifted with all the right talents, Natalie is a born event planner, a gracious hostess, an inspiring teacher, and avid health and exercise enthusiast.
Born in California but raised in the Midwestern state of Wisconsin, Natalie came back to our sunny state for college, and headed straight for the best senior community she could find: The Villages of SLO! In her role as Life Enrichment Director, Natalie loves being creative, producing memorable experiences, and promoting healthy living. “I love coming to work every day with the soul purpose of enriching lives,” she says, with emphasis on the intentional misspelling of sole. “That’s what life is all about!”
Ben Kelly—Director of Dining Services
“Nothing has the power to bring people together like a good meal,” says Ben Kelly, “and I relish the ability to provide that service for Villages residents.” Bringing 16 years’ experience to his position as Director of Dining Services for all four Villages communities, Ben understands the value of food as a “medium to highlight different cultures, celebrate heritages, or bring back a cherished memory.”
From menu-writing to staff development, Ben thrives on overseeing “all the moving parts” of his dining team, including special events, mentoring newcomers, and keeping his kitchen gleaming.
Ben funded his education (a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism) by working in restaurants and dining establishments, where he says, “I couldn’t be happier and more at home!”
When he’s not in the kitchen, Ben loves working with wood alongside his wife, Karen, and going on geographic treasure hunts with their two children, Kaitlyn and Jackson.
Dinora Escalera—Lead Receptionist
Dinora got to know our residents first as a dining room server. She was immediately smitten with our fascinating elders and soon she was promoted to the Front Desk. Smart, efficient, kind, and patient, Dinora became our Lead Receptionist in short order.
Born and raised in San Luis Obispo, Dinora has always enjoyed being around older people—an uncommon quality in a young twenty-something. Her grandfather, Eladio, is a beloved elder who taught her to read and count when she was a little girl. At The Villages, Dinora enjoys the wisdom and experience she encounters here every day.
In her spare time, she loves to travel, having already spent time in Italy and The Netherlands. She says her work at The Villages has inspired a desire to make working with seniors a long-term career.
Clay Poynter—Maintenance Director
Clay Poynter brings a lifetime of experience to his position as Maintenance Director at The Villages. Born in Turlock, California, and raised in the very small town of Hughson, Clay grew up in construction. Nearly every member of his family is involved in the building business in one way or another.
During high school, Clay played several sports and went to work right after graduation. He soon formed his own construction company which thrived in the Lake Chelan area of Washington State for 18 years. He and his wife Colleen, a middle school teacher, moved to California to escape the snowy winters.
Clay had been serving as Maintenance Director for a large health corporation in our county for seven years when he agreed to take the top job for The Villages. His long and varied experience makes him an ideal fit professionally; and his warm, can-do attitude helps him to “lead by example,” he says, and to “steer my team in a positive direction.”
In his spare time, Clay enjoys kayaking and bicycling and making the most of each day.
Simon Ford—Landscaping Director
Even when he’s not at work, Simon Ford loves to spend time with growing green things. Whether it’s in his own flower and vegetable gardens at home, or out in the wilderness as far from civilization as possible, his first and lasting love is for flowers, plants, and trees. Which explains why the courtyards, pathways, and grounds at The Villages always look so lush and beautiful.
Born in Tennessee, and raised in California, Simon started gardening at the age of one. Since then, he has achieved 40 years personal experience, 25 of those as a professional. He studied horticulture, botany, and marine and terra biology at Cal State Fullerton and UC Irvine before opening his own thriving business, where he specialized in English Cottage Landscape Design for private residences.
Upon retirement, Simon wanted to continue working for the benefit of others and found himself at The Villages. In four short years, he had earned the top spot. Around every corner, in the calming greenery, and in every new and surprising burst of color, you can just tell: Simon has been there.
Kenny Espinal—Executive Director
Kenny Espinal has been working to improve the lives of seniors for more than 10 years. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Cal State Northridge in 2007, immediately followed by his Master’s Degree in Public Administration in 2010.
With experience in Skilled Nursing Facilities, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Rehab, and Wellness Centers, Kenny brings a wealth of wisdom and a huge heart to the top job at Garden Creek. Having never had the pleasure of grandparents in his own family, he finds fulfillment in the warmth and guidance he receives from his elders every day in his work.
“I love coming to work,” he smiles. “Every day is a new day!” —with all the excitement, life lessons, and friendships he finds here.
Amber Rizzo—Wellness Director
Amber learned early in life that good nurses can make the critical difference for patients of all ages. As a child, she was in and out of hospitals frequently and came to know the nurses well. And later in life, when her grandmother was ill, she saw how much the nurses meant to her, too.
“Those experiences made me want to make that kind of difference for others,” she said.
Raised mostly in Santa Maria, Amber earned her LVN from Santa Barbara Business College, then worked in elder care for five years before accepting her post as Wellness Director at Garden Creek.
“I love seeing my residents on a daily basis; they just make me smile,” she says. “I am constantly re-assessing each and every one to be sure they are getting the best care possible.”
In her off time, Amber and her husband spend lots of time outdoors, hiking, camping, and hanging out near tidepools.
Ruth Fedor—Business Office Manager
When Ruth moved from her home in rural Pennsylvania, she missed being a part of her parents’ daily activities. So she transferred her desire to “help” to the many elderly members of her new community, doing many of the myriad things for them that she used to do for her parents. When it came time to go back to the workforce, Ruth’s first choice was to do what she does best—business management—but in a senior community. Ruth and Garden Creek were a perfect match.
In her off time, Ruth enjoys cooking, container gardening, and exploring our beaches. But it’s “seeing our residents eyes light up as they enjoy all we offer here” that really makes her day.
Katherine Uhler—Life Enrichment Director
Raised right here in San Luis Obispo, Katherine has a lifelong connection to the city and to The Villages, telling us she used to swim here as a teenager back when the property housed Cal Poly students.
“Music and song kept me in school,” she says, having sung in honor and gospel choirs all her life. Katherine married her high school sweetheart and today, she’s the busy mother of four – all of whom live and work here, too. Her home is the hub, where great meals and family gatherings are frequent.
For someone who admits she is the one who never knew what she wanted to do when she grew up, Katherine says she has finally found the right fit as the Life Enrichment Director at Garden Creek. Filling the calendar with great entertainment, learning opportunities, exercise classes, trips and excursions, Katherine laughs, plays, and learns right along with her residents.
“I wanted to do work that would touch others,” she said. “And now I am the one who is touched and fulfilled every day through the friendships I’ve formed in service to our residents.”
Bernadette Maluso—Lead Receptionist
It seems caring and compassion are two very strong elements in Bernadette Maluso’s background. Her sister contracted polio at the tender age of 12 and Bernadette spent her growing up years helping to care for her. “She is the least handicapped person I know,” she said. “She is my inspiration.”
Later in life, Bernadette and her husband brought her mother home to live with them during her final years. “As mom’s caregiver,” she explained, “ I learned a lot about the changing needs that come with aging.”
And with a professional background in Office Management and Client Relations, she has the perfect qualifications to run our busy front desk. “Family, relationship, and being of service are most important to me, and I’ve found all three at Garden Creek.
Elmer Magbitang—Lead Chef, Garden Creek Assisted Living
Born and raised in The Philippines with one sister and a twin brother, Elmer Magbitang did not always want to be a cook. He did not discover his passion for cooking until he saw for himself how much great meals meant to the seniors he’d been hired to serve a few years before coming to The Villages.
Elmer spent 4 years at the elbow of his mentor, Robert Root, who had hired him as his sous chef for another local senior residence. He later worked in the kitchen at PG&E’s Diablo Canyon and also for Bayside Skilled Nursing Community in Morro Bay.
In 2016, he took over the top job at The Villages’ Garden Creek where he works to please his residents daily, stopping by each table to get their feedback and suggestions.
Jeff Ringer—Maintenance Director
Born and raised in a small town in the central valley of California, Jeff started “training” for his current position early on. Right out of high school, he went to work as a plant production operator for 8 years. Next he learned the construction trade and spent 15 years honing all aspects of the building industry.
When he moved to the Central Coast, Jeff worked in construction for another 8 years, and then landed the second-in-command position at a local skilled nursing community. From there he was offered the top job at The Village at Garden Creek. Jeff was the primary caregiver for his own Dad during his long fight with emphysema, so he has a special affinity for the residents he works for. “I am very glad to be here at Garden Creek,” he says. “Helping them and keeping them happy is the best part of what I do.”
Married to his high school sweetheart Teresa, Jeff has two grown children: Kelly and Brandon. They’ve been camping together every year since they were kids at Huntington Lake near Clovis, California.
Kristi Beck—Executive Director
Kristi comes to us with more than 20 years in the federal government and senior housing industries—from construction phase to community management—from independent to dementia care. She has worked in a variety of senior care settings in Colorado, Washington, and most recently, California. Kristi holds a Master’s Degree in Public Affairs from the University of Colorado, plus several certifications, including Assisted Living Administration, Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly, and Dementia Care Trainer.
Kristi says it is most important to her that she lead her team in providing the most current, compassionate care for all her residents, as well as continuous training for staff.
Ann Larkin—Business Office Manager
As a member of the fifth generation to live and work on her family’s Southern California citrus ranch, Ann Larkin grew up learning about business. With parents who were active in their community well into their 80s, she also learned the value of service to others.
Ann earned her B.S. in Business Administration and spent the first part of her career in the high tech world of Silicon Valley. She and her husband moved to San Luis Obispo for its beauty and its slower pace. Ann has a special affinity for those living with or affected by dementia, having witnessed it in her own family.
“The best things about working at Sydney Creek,” she says, “are the sense of community, and the fulfillment that comes from being part of the dedicated team that cares for our residents, their families, and our co-workers.”
Haley Kovach—Life Enrichment Director
While studying for her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Haley took a class in aging and it lit a spark of curiosity. Was working with the elderly right for her? So she applied for an internship at an Adult Day Care Center and learned about dementia. “That inspired me to want to make a difference in the lives of others who really need it.”
As Sydney Creek’s Life Enrichment Director, Haley makes that difference, bringing a brighter day to all of our residents with a full calendar of diverse activities, trips, entertainment, guests, and exercise classes. When she’s not at work, you’ll find Haley working out or hiking the trails in our gorgeous county.
Danny Danbom—Community Relations Coordinator
Danny Danbom knows a thing or two about loss. In her young life, she has been the primary caregiver for her grandfather, her grandmother, and her own mother in their final months—each suffering from their own degenerative illness.
“Watching their decline gave me the courage and the confidence to speak about illness and death,” she said. “That’s a trait most people struggle with.”
With a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation & Hospitality Management, and ten years in the finance industry, Danny (short for Danielle) brings a wealth of knowledge and a sincere desire to be of service to her current position at Sydney Creek.
“I want to be the advocate our community needs,” she said. “It’s my pleasure to articulate who we are, what we do here, and how we might help.”
Bonifacio Aboites—Dining Services Manager
Bringing a broad-based set of food industry experiences to The Village at Sydney Creek, Bonifacio Aboites was part of the first kitchen crew in 2000, when Sydney Creek opened its doors to the community.
Born and raised in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico, Bonifacio moved to California in 1992 when he landed a job in fresh produce. He was soon snatched up by the famous Apple Farm restaurant where he worked his way up from prep cook to line chef, and eventually to server. Preferring “the back of the house” to the front, Bonifacio spent the next decade in the kitchen of the popular SLO Brew as well as a long stint at New Frontiers grocery store before assuming the top job at Sydney Creek.
Well organized and meticulous, Bonifacio runs his kitchen with confidence and calm, and enjoys his daily interactions with residents, who always have questions for him.
Linda Dirlam—Lead Receptionist
As the weekday receptionist for the past six years, Linda has considered it a true privilege and joy to work at such a unique community. Soon after she began her job, she discovered that it was much more than just a clerical position.
Having taken the journey along the trying road of Alzheimer’s disease with her mother, Linda feels a special connection with the daily experiences of the families and their loved ones as they follow a similar path. She has discovered that finding the right words is sometimes difficult, but non-verbal communication in the form of hugs and smiles goes a long way.
Being part of a dedicated and compassionate work team and having the opportunity to meet and make many special acquaintances has brought much meaning and happiness to Linda’s life.
Michael Guinn—Maintenance Director
Michael Guinn has a long and varied background as the head “fix-it” man. First as a U.S. Marine / aircraft electrician during the Vietnam War, and later as a technician for a well known air conditioning company and two County Offices of Education. So he knows how to keep most anything in good working order. Having lived in an “over-55” community himself, he also has an affinity for working with the elderly, enjoying his role as the guy who can help.
Born and raised in Fresno, California, Guinn moved to the Central Coast where he spent time as the maintenance director for a large local retirement community before landing the top job at Sydney Creek. Here, he takes pride in keeping the building itself gleaming, with all its various parts running like a clock. But it’s the little jobs he does for residents that make him the happiest. “I really enjoy helping them out,” he says, “because I know how hard it can be.”
