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.

Margarita Perry—Assistant Administrator and Marketing

Margarita has been in the senior housing industry for more than thirty years. She began her career with seniors by volunteering to call bingo in a Santa Maria nursing home, but she has found her passion working with our seniors and helping them clarify their needs and desires. She also uses all her experience to see that residents are supported in every way to maintain their independent lifestyles.

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.  

Jeri O'Neill—Business Office Manager

A native of San Luis Obispo, Jeri was raised two blocks away from The Villages, and as a child, actually played on the field that existed before the buildings were constructed. She earned an A. A. degree in Liberal Arts from Cuesta College and graduated with honors from Cal Poly with a B. A. in English. Raised in a family surrounded by elders, Jeri has always felt comfortable with seniors and enjoys being of service and interacting with all the wonderful residents. Jeri is recognized as the longest-employed staff person at The Villages.

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.

Linda Baptista—Lead Receptionist

“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 has filled the lead role at The Palms front desk…once again the first friendly face we see every day and 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: After seven 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.

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.

Linda Christiansen—Executive Director

It was her job working as a Child Care Director for St. Paul’s Senior Homes and Services in San Diego that led Linda to her chosen career with seniors. “My boss noticed I had a great love and respect for residents in our senior communities,” she said. “She encouraged me to further my education and start an International Senior Day Program.” So she earned a degree in Health Care Administration and promptly started the program that continues to flourish to this day.

Born in Sioux City, Iowa, and raised in Buena Park, California, Linda brings the best of both states to her work as Executive Director at Garden Creek. Brimming with Midwestern kindness and hospitality, and using the innovative problem-solving skills she learned in California, Linda puts both to work in her daily interactions with residents, families, and staff. “I enjoy the challenge of finding new ways to meet our resident’s needs,” she says, “and to exceed their expectations."

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.

Angela Ojeda—Life Enrichment Lead

Time is on her side. For Angela Ojeda, the best part of her position as Garden Creek’s Life Enrichment Lead is the time she spends with her residents on a daily basis. In her previous position at a local short-term rehabilitation center, Angela had only two weeks to work with people before they went home. “At Garden Creek I have the opportunity to build lasting relationships,” she said.

Born and raised in Paso Robles, Angela first felt a real calling to work with the elderly when her grandfather was receiving help at a North County care center. However college took her south where “I thought I might become a physical therapist,” she said, “Or a social worker.” But when the chance to work in a local Continuing Care Community beckoned she was quick to accept it. She soon promoted from an Activity Aid in Assisted Living to Activity Director Assistant in Skilled Nursing. After earning her California Activity Director Certification and Long Term Care Social Worker Designee Certification, she promoted to an Acute Transitional Care Center as Activity Director and Social Worker, where she was able to be a “voice” for those she served.

With her calling now on solid ground, Angela knew the move to the lead position at Garden Creek was the right one. She is now a member of the National Association of Activities Professionals and is pursuing her national board certification. When she’s not at work, or at the beach, Angela loves gardening, crafts, and occasionally, the golf course. At Garden Creek, Angela brings energy, enthusiasm, and experience to work every day. “My residents and my career bring joy and purpose to my life,” she says.

Stacey Schultz—Lead Receptionist

Stacey was born and raised in a small farming town in Minnesota. She went to Wisconsin to earn her Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administration. She worked as a corporate sales representative and has lived in many states all across the country. She fell in love with California's Central Coast and moved here permanently seven years ago. Since moving to California, she has worked primarily in the hospitality industry, where she excelled in providing excellent customer service.

Stacey enjoys getting to know the residents, and with her warm smile and friendly personality, she is quickly forming memorable friendships. She feels working with the senior community has many rewards.

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.

Kellie Gallegly—Executive Director

Kellie comes by her take-charge, problem-solving, straightforward style naturally. She grew up a tomboy with rodeo in her bones. Growing up in Bakersfield, she roped and rode with the best of them; and when it came time to go to work, she landed a position as Activities Director in the Alzheimer’s Unit of her local hospital. Soon, she was promoted to Associate Administrator. That was 30 years ago, and she has worked in geriatrics and dementia care ever since.

Receiving specialized training with the Alzheimer’s Association, Kellie worked with David Troxel, the internationally acclaimed expert who literally wrote the book on caring for Alzheimer’s patients. She earned her RCFE license early on and comes to Sydney Creek with just the right mix of long experience and intuitive gifts. “I know their language,” she says. “I relate to their reality.”

Kellie’s hopes for Sydney Creek residents know no bounds. Through innovative programs for mental stimulation, decreased anxiety, and better self-esteem, she sees a vastly improved quality of life for all.

Kahlua Sievert—Director of Wellness

Having lost her mother at just four years old, Kahlua was raised by her father—with lots of help from her grandparents. So it’s only natural that she feels drawn to, and at home with, the elderly.  Born in San Luis Obispo, and raised in South County, Kahlua graduated from Arroyo Grande High and earned her CNA at Hancock College in Santa Maria. Soon after, she earned her LVN.

“I had two aunts who were nurses, and an uncle who was a physician,” she explained. “I could see how fulfilled they were in their jobs and I wanted to be like them.”

Before coming to Sydney Creek, Kahlua racked up experience providing home care for individual clients, and then worked in a continuing care community as both a CNA and as a Medical Technician. She also has grandparents who suffer from dementia and Lewy Body Dementia, which gives her first-hand knowledge of these diseases and their effects.

About her position at Sydney Creek, Kahlua says, “Every day, I love seeing the residents as part of my life; and knowing that I’m a part of theirs. Sydney Creek is so unique in our industry … we are continually working to bring our residents the best quality of life possible. I love being a part of that, too.” 

Benjamin Morris—Community Relations Coordinator

Benjamin Morris found what he was always meant to do by accident. Born in Corpus Christi Texas, he was one of six children and went to work at the age of 15. He spent 10 years in the restaurant business and another three in landscape construction. In 2013, an unexpected lay-off led him to jump into something he never thought he’d do. And that turned out to be something he now hopes never to leave—working with seniors.

Benjamin worked at Las Brisas retirement community for four years before coming to his current position at Sydney Creek. He began in the kitchen and worked his way up quickly to the lead sales position by declaring “I have what can’t be taught, and everything else I can learn.”

We agree. Knowledgeable, talented, and gifted with a natural affinity for the elderly, Benjamin works daily to share what he knows with Sydney Creek families and the larger community.

Heather Chapman—Business Office Manager

With not one, but two of her grandparents affected by dementia, Heather Chapman sees first-hand how it affects them and her family. With a decade-long background in Behavioral Health, supplemented by university courses in Special Education, Heather is uniquely well-qualified for her position at Sydney Creek. 

She started as a Med Tech, was promoted to Assistant Director of Wellness, and was then offered her current job as Business Office Manager. “Whether it’s family members, residents, or co-workers, just knowing I’m helping to make things easier on them makes me happy,” she says.

When she's not at Sydney Creek, Heather likes spending time at one of our pretty beaches, hiking our hillsides, and hanging with her husband and son who, she says, "are amazing, and inspire me each and every day."

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.