Kiley Arce, Community Relations Director, Quail Park Shannon Ranch

Kiley Arce is a storyteller first and a marketing professional second. She is passionate about authenticity and leveraging the power of content to drive brand growth and audience connection.

While Kiley has worked in the communications industry for nearly a decade, her career began in journalism, where she honed her skills in writing, audience engagement, and media relations - expertise that continues to shape her holistic approach to marketing today. Throughout her seasoned career, Kiley has worked with brands across various industries - including healthcare, government, retail, and more - helping them craft compelling narratives, build strong digital presences, and develop data-driven marketing. As the digital landscape evolves each year, Kiley looks forward to the solutions and challenges that come with that growth. 

Tony Benevento, CEO, ServiceMaster by Benevento

I have been CEO/President at ServiceMaster by Benevento since 2006, the same year I purchased the corporation from my father.  My main duties are to ensure that the company achieves its growth goals year after year while attaining the targeted profit.  My direct reports are employees who are on the SMB Leadership Team, which consists of operations, finance, sales and HR.  I am focused on the long-term growth and health of the company.  I am often working on mergers, acquisitions and large capital asset purchases. 

SMB is a full-service disaster restoration company.  We specialize in water, fire, mold restoration and construction.  We serve the Central Valley and have offices in Visalia and Fresno. SMB has over 100 employees.  2025 is our 40th year in business.

Deanna Blaise, SVP Chief Business Officer, Valley Strong Credit Union

Deanna is the Senior Vice President Chief Business Officer at Valley Strong Credit Union, she has been a pivotal force for the organization since 2019, when she established the Business Banking Division. Under her leadership, the division has flourished, offering a broad range of products and services that significantly benefit the communities we serve.

Previously she was the SVP, Director of Retail Strategy & Operations at Rabobank for twelve years. Deanna was responsible for the Operational Soundness Program overseeing all one hundred-branch locations. She held positions of Treasury Services Relationship Manager, Retail Branch Manager, Regional Manager, and Division Manager. She is skilled in cash management, small business lending, consumer lending, business development, coaching, team management, HR, and leadership. Before joining Rabobank, she spent thirteen years as the Marketing Director for a regional CPA firm, Brown Armstrong CPAs assisting them with audit and tax practice development, marketing, and recruiting. Prior to Brown Armstrong CPAs, she worked for San Joaquin Bank for five years in cash management, agriculture lending administration, and business development.

She is a 2021 graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington, Seattle. She completed a three-year International Business Leadership Certificate program from IESE International Business School in Spain and studied Business Administration and Marketing at Cal State University Bakersfield.

Deanna and her husband Kenny love anything that involves exploring the outdoors. They have two grown children, and two grandchildren. Deanna is actively involved in her community and is the Past Chairwoman of the Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference, Executive Board Member of Cen Cal CDC, Taft College Foundation, Bakersfield College Foundation, and the Incoming Chair for the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce. She has served on several other non-profit organizations that include Youth Connection, JJ’s Legacy Donate Life, and North Bakersfield Rotary.

Melissa Carillo, Director of Accounts, Jeffrey Scott Agency

Melissa is a brand storyteller and strategist who has built a career shaping impactful marketing and communication campaigns. With over a decade of experience spanning government, healthcare, education, and nonprofits, she brings a unique blend of analytical thinking, cultural insight, and creativity to every project.

 As the Director of Accounts at Jeffrey Scott Agency, Melissa leads the marketing and advertising agency’s account management team, ensuring seamless collaboration between clients and the award-winning creative, media, and public relations teams. She oversees key client relationships, drives strategic marketing initiatives, and plays a pivotal role in bringing new business to the agency—helping organizations like the Central Valley Community Foundation and CalViva Health achieve their marketing goals through compelling messaging and execution.

 Before stepping into her leadership role at JSA, Melissa crafted high-impact campaigns as a communication specialist at Kaweah Health, led public relations for the Tulare County Board of Supervisors, and managed marketing projects for nonprofit and community initiatives. She holds a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications from West Virginia University and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from California State University, Fresno.

Melissa was a proud steering committee member of the Visalia Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals Network and a graduate of the Leadership Visalia program. Beyond her career, she embraces a spirit of adventure—whether it’s traveling, learning the ukulele, or perfecting her backhand in tennis. When she’s not leading marketing strategy, you’ll find her making memories with loved ones–including her 15-year old furbaby, Lucy–and saying "yes!" to life’s next great experience.

Alex Cordero, Director of Human Resources and Safety, Trilogy Personnel and Land Management/Paragon Personnel

Alex is an accomplished, results-oriented, and personable Human Resources (HR) leader with over 18+ years of progressive experience driving business performance and fostering next-level communication across HR and internal departments. Recognized for his ability to align HR initiatives with business objectives, Alex brings a strategic and tactical approach to HR and Safety programs. He forges strong, trust-based relationships with stakeholders at all levels, from C-suite executives to frontline employees, ensuring cohesive and engaged teams.

 Throughout his distinguished career, Alex has made an impact across diverse industries, including Telecom, Distribution Centers, Manufacturing, and now Agriculture. His expertise in large-scale, culture-shifting change management initiatives has consistently transformed organizational dynamics. Additionally, he has proven himself as a site turnaround specialist, stabilizing underperforming HR departments and driving practical operational improvements.

 In his current role at Trilogy PLM, Alex has spearheaded the development of the company's Goals and Objectives, led the creation of its Mission, Vision, and Values, and assumed leadership of both the HR and Safety departments. By championing a proactive approach to employee engagement, he introduced the “bringing the office to the field” initiative, fostering stronger connections with field operations. This hands-on strategy has significantly enhanced workforce engagement and productivity, especially within the agricultural workforce.

Beyond his professional achievements, Alex enjoys savoring the vibrant wine scene in Paso Robles and engaging in friendly competition on the pickleball court with his wife, Linda. While he’s not a top-ranked player, he relishes the joy of the game and the quality time spent with his wife.

Robert DeBruin, Director of Marketing & Development, Elite Corporate Medical Services Inc.

I graduated with a degree that provided me with a strong base in computer science, nurtured in the tech-centric atmosphere of Silicon Valley, before making my way to Tulare County. In my current role as the Director of Marketing and Development at Elite Corporate Medical Services Inc., I've spearheaded the marketing department for more than four years. My focus has been on crafting and implementing innovative branding strategies and campaigns that highlight our company's unique selling points and competitive advantages. Outside of work, I'm dedicated to contributing to the community through various volunteer efforts. Presently, I hold the position of board chair on the board of directors for Central Valley Recovery Services.

Karen Gross, Agent, State Farm

Karen Gross is a seasoned State Farm Agent in Visalia with 27 years of experience in the insurance and financial services industry. Renowned for her exceptional sales acumen, Karen has consistently been recognized with numerous sales awards for her outstanding performance and dedication to client satisfaction.  In 2011, she established her own agency from the ground up and has steadily and significantly expanded its operations over the past 13 years, establishing it as one of the largest agencies in the area.

During her journey, Karen has excelled in the art of persuasion, showcasing that effective sales techniques are accessible and can be embraced by individuals at any level, regardless of their title or prior experience.  In "Sales for the Non-Salesperson: Mastering the Art of Persuasion Without the Pressure," Karen will share her insights and practical strategies that demystify the sales process. Attendees will learn how to harness the power of persuasion in their everyday interactions, build meaningful relationships, and drive positive outcomes without the stress often associated with traditional sales tactics.

 Join Karen to discover how you can transform your approach to persuasion and unlock your potential in any conversation or negotiation.

Stacy Heaton, Vice President of Communications and Public Relations,California Dairies, Inc.

With extensive experience in communications and public relations, Stacy Heaton serves as VP of Communications & Public Relations for CDI. She drives impactful communication strategies across all channels, including media relations, crisis communications, public relations, and digital platforms. A dedicated community and industry leader, Stacy holds board positions with the Visalia Chamber of Commerce, Dairy Council of California, Family Services of California, Visalia Economic Development Corporation, and Helping One Woman. She also serves on the steering committee for the Leadership Visalia program, a program of the Visalia Chamber of Commerce.

Jason LeFaive, Executive Director, Spirit Radio

Jason LeFaive is the Executive Director of Spirit Radio and current Board Chair of Tucoemas Federal Credit Union. Jason has been a key part of non-profit organizations and instrumental in launching Seven Oaks Church in 2018 as the founding Lead Pastor. His ability to think strategically, network, and bring the big audacious ideas into reality has allowed him to be a catalyst for change alongside leaders in the local church, government, and Fortune 500 Executives in Africa, Europe, and North America. Jason has called Visalia home for over 30 years and married for 23 years. His wife, Alisha, is a medical professional and RN. Jason and Alisha, with their three daughters, love spending time at the beach, playing golf, raising a small farm, and living life together with Jesus as their anchor. 

Sarah Peltzer-Machado, Marketing Manager, The Sun-Gazette

A Visalia native, Sarah graduated from CSU Fullerton with a BA in Business Management and earned her MA in Marketing Communication from University of Denver. After returning to the Central Valley in 2021, Sarah’s career has led her to working with non-profit organizations and now Mineral King Publishing as the Marketing Manager for The Sun Gazette in Tulare County and Mid Valley Times in Fresno County.

Nick Martinez, General Manager, Visalia Hyundai

I have been in the car business for over 15 years and serve as the General Manager for Visalia Hyundai.  I am a graduate of dealer academy at  National Automobile Dealer’s Association (NADA Class 417).  Over the years, I have attended training seminars nationally, including Joe Verde Training Network, Grant Cardone, Tim Kintz Group and numerous others.  I believe that every customer will “buy” or “not buy” because of me.  Deals are lost by a few words and not a few dollars and ensure my goal is to treat every human I come into contact with as the most important person in the world, because to them, they are.  The biggest deal I closed was marrying my lovely wife, Maria. I enjoy time spent with her, and my two children Emma and Olivia.

 Monique Mello, PE, QSD/QSP, Visalia Branch Manager, and Licensed Civil Engineer, QK

Monique Mello, PE, QSD/QSP has been with QK for 24 years and is currently the Visalia Branch Manager and a licensed Senior Civil Engineer. Monique has a strong background in engineering and community development, rooted in her father's work as a City of Tulare public works inspector. She earned her engineering degree from California State University Fresno, which she now uses to help Central Valley communities beautify their cities and give residents a sense of ownership and pride. Monique is a passionate advocate for local municipalities and currently serves as the City Engineer for the City of Woodlake. Her expertise ranges from residential subdivision development to municipal infrastructure design, and she has managed, designed, and administered numerous public works projects from the master plan stage through construction.

Jordan Mulrooney, Broker Associate RE/MAX Success; Visalia Breakfast Lions

Embark on a transformative real estate journey with me, Jordan, a distinguished REALTOR® proudly associated with RE/MAX Success in Visalia. With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration and a focus on Management, I am not just a REALTOR®; I am a licensed broker, a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist®, Accredited Buyer’s Representative®, e-PRO®, PSA, Real Estate Negotiation Expert, and a Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource®. My commitment to continuous education underscores my dedication to staying at the forefront of industry trends, ensuring my clients benefit from the latest and most relevant insights. As a Visalia native for almost three decades, my expertise extends beyond residential transactions to encompass commercial and investment real estate throughout Tulare, Kings, Kern, and Fresno Counties. While occasionally exploring opportunities in other California markets, my heart remains in Visalia. Behind every successful REALTOR® is a loving support system, and at the center of my world is my beautiful wife, Kelsey, whose unwavering support and understanding fuel my passion for real estate. Together, we share our home with two pups, Roxie and Oliver. Choose excellence in real estate with Jordan Mulrooney Real Estate at RE/MAX Success. As your premier real estate strategist in Visalia, I bring a fresh perspective to the industry, seamlessly blending modern communication tools and a robust social media presence to redefine standards. My involvement in community organizations such as the Visalia Breakfast Lion’s Club and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks underscores my commitment to community preservation. Recognized with “The Spirit of RE/MAX” award in 2018 and 2020, I am not just a REALTOR®; I am your strategic partner, dedicated to serving you with the highest level of knowledge, integrity, and professionalism.

Paul Myers, Executive Editor & Vice President, Mineral King Publishing Inc.

Paul Myers is the Executive Editor and Vice President of Mineral King Publishing inc. Mineral King Publishing owns The Sun-Gazette newspaper that covers Tulare County and the Mid Valley Times which covers southern Fresno County. Paul and Mineral King Publishing is constantly seeking new and innovative ways to build a sustainable, free market, local news business model in order to preserve local news well into the future.

Tosha Pequeno, Senior Branch Manager, Valley Strong Credit Union

Tosha Pequeño has worked for Valley Strong Credit Union for over 18 years, beginning with the High School Branch program at Ridgeview High in 2004. In July of 2020, Tosha relocated to Visalia from Bakersfield, having accepted a promotion to Senior Branch Manager to help lead the opening of Valley Strong’s branches in Tulare and Kings County. In this new role, Tosha’s primary focus is on outreach and developing strong roots within the community for mutual prosperity.  

Tosha is an intuitive leader, having attended the Bakersfield Leadership Program in 2020. She is heavily involved in the community, serving on several advisory committees and boards for the for education in Tulare and Kings County. She works closely with the Visalia Rawhide baseball team, International Ag Center, and is a Board Member for the Visalia Chamber of Commerce.  

Tosha has a passion for financial literacy, educating members, employees, and young minds alike about their endless financial possibilities. She has been a guest speaker/lecturer for various employment fairs, and classrooms for all ages, speaking on budgeting and how to establish good credit report behaviors.

During her tenure, Tosha has held seven positions respectively: Teller, Branch Trainer for New Hires, Loan Technician, Financial Service Officer, Senior Financial Service Officer, Branch Manager, and Senior Branch Manager. Her breadth of experience has been an invaluable asset to Valley Strong, enabling her to serve on multiple special committees within the organization. Most recently, Tosha served on the committee for the name change of Valley Strong from Kern Schools Federal Credit Union. Tosha has also been a resource for the Training Department, teaching new and existing team members on new processes, systems, and structure.

Tosha excelled in higher education at University of La Verne where she was inducted into the Alpha Chi – National College Academic Society, and where she graduated with magna cum laude honors in 2013. Tosha has one daughter, Cypris Nikole, who is 18 years old. Cypris is a Freshman at Fresno State.

Sam Ramirez, Founder & CEO, Revel Venues

Sam Ramirez is the founder of The Naxon Group and Revel Events Co, a hospitality development, and management company based in Visalia. He started his career as a front desk agent in a small golf resort hotel and fell in love with the industry and serving others. 

His range of experience has found him leading teams for boutique independent, full service, and select-service hotels.  He has spent time managing bars, restaurants, and even a nightclub for a stint. His projects have taken him throughout the US including major projects in Roseville, Portland, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Denver, and many others. After serving as Chief Operating Officer for a Salt Lake City-based firm, he started his own company 4 years ago and decided to make Visalia it’s home.

In 2019 he launched Bello Vita Venue, renovating the former Sons of Italy Hall into a premier indoor event venue. In June of 2020 he was part of the management team for the launch of The Darling Hotel, the first boutique hotel in Visalia. In the fall of 2020, he opened The Woodlands, a beautiful outdoor venue in northwest Visalia. And in 2023 he  has already added Watermill Grove (former Koetsier Ranch), The Mason in Exeter and most recently the former Lamp Liter Conference Center now branded as The Hyde. Sam has grown his venue portfolio to serve guests of all  needs. He has gown to add catering and bartending and event planning services to his group.

Sam has made it his goal to create some of the Valley’s most memorable event experiences from Food Fests, Movie Nights, Mothers’ Day Brunch  and many  other public events that bring our community together. 

Alberto Ramos, Executive Director, CASA of Tulare County

Alberto Ramos serves as the Executive Director at CASA of Tulare County, bringing with him 16 years of experience in nonprofit work focused on children and families, including over 13 years at CASA of Tulare County. A native of Visalia, Alberto was raised in Farmersville and has resided in the area for most of his life. He is a former board member of the Child Abuse Prevention Council and currently holds positions on the boards of the Visalia Sunset Rotary and the College of the Sequoias Human Services Advisory Board. Alberto's commitment to CASA's mission is deeply rooted in his own experiences with adversity during childhood, and he firmly believes that overcoming such challenges requires the support of positive relationships.

Eric Riley, Chief Marketing & Business Development Director, 4Creeks

Eric Riley is a seasoned marketing strategist and business development leader with over two decades of experience driving growth and innovation through marketing, communication and design. As the Chief Marketing & Business Development Director at 4Creeks, a multidisciplinary Architecture, Engineering, and Construction firm with six offices across California and Colorado, Eric spearheads efforts to deliver technical expertise with client-centered solutions. His leadership has played a pivotal role in fostering strategic partnerships and advancing impactful, community-focused projects throughout his career. Eric is passionate about exploring the intersection of technology and marketing, with a focus on how innovation can create stronger connections and drive business growth. His expertise spans branding, digital marketing, go-to-market strategy, and client engagement, making him a key driver in 4Creeks’ reputation as an industry leader. In his free time Eric enjoy's spending time with his wife and three children, playing guitar, eating a great steak or cheering on his favorite Soccer Club - Tottenham Hotspur. 

Marina Rojas, Communications Director, Spirit Radio

Marina Rojas is the Communications Director for Spirit Radio in Visalia. After serving various local organizations, such as, The Sequoia Symphony Orchestra, Visalia Rawhide, The Visalia Fox Theatre, and The Tulare County Associations of REALTORS®, her career has brought her home to radio. Marina is a proud alumnus of the College of the Sequoias and Leadership Visalia. Her love of community, connection, and family has kept her in the Central Valley. Marina understands how to harness stories and share them with an audience. With a background in marketing, social media management, and non-profit workings, she has been asked to consult local businesses at times to see how they can grow in those specific areas. When not working, she can be found trying new eats with friends, watching sports with her Dad and brother, or at Galaxy Theaters reviewing the newest films.

Vincent Salinas, Business Consultant, SBDC

Tulare County has been a major influence on my life.  I was born and raised in Visalia and attended school at Crowley, Webster, Green Acres and Redwood High School.  Due to family hardship in my final years of high school, I lived in a foster home in Porterville and graduated from Porterville High School.  I returned to Visalia and continued my education at College of the Sequoias.  I then transferred to San Jose State but returned to the Central Valley and completed college at CSU, Bakersfield.  

My commitment to hard work and education was gained in Tulare County.  Growing up in Visalia and Porterville, I worked in the fields from the age of 8 until I was 24 picking everything from grapes, cotton, grapefruit, differing varieties of fruit, olives and oranges.  While in high school and college, I spent four summers fighting forest fires with the Porterville Fire Crews. 

In 1978, my family and I moved to Newark, California and worked there for 22 years. After raising our children and seeing our last son off to college, we decided to move back to Tulare County in 2000 in preparation for retirement.

After spending 25 years in the banking profession, I am semi-retired and have worked as a Business Consultant for the Small Business Development Center for over 12 years.  I have been back in the Visalia community for 24 years and it is important to me to give back to the community that nurtured my early years and provided crucial foundational education and employment opportunities.  I have been involved with the City as a past Visalia Planning Commissioner, Past President of the Tulare King Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Past Board member of Visalia Chamber of Commerce, CEO of the Hispanic Chamber Foundation and frequently volunteer to work on community service projects.

Shontay Smith, Community Development Financial Institution, Director Valley Strong Credit Union

An experienced leader with 25 years of successful financial industry experience with strength in driving business growth, recruitment, and development of talent, navigating complex cross lines of business integration within banking, and cultivating strong community partnerships. In addition, she has a proven track record in business driving growth, implementing culture and influencing others through charismatic leadership and innovation. 

She is now the Director of the Valley Strong Credit Union Community Development Financial Institution.  With an emphasis on small business lending for minorities throughout the Valley Strong Credit Union footprint.

Shontay was the VP, Community Manager for JP Morgan Chase, providing financial education throughout the Kern County Region through the JPMorgan Chase Racial Equity Impact.  As well as spent the past two decades in various retail banking roles with the organization.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Cal State University, Northridge, and a Master's in Business Administration with a Human Resources emphasis from the University of Phoenix. 

She is involved in her hometown community of Kern County, serving on the Housing & Opportunity Foundation of Kern, Family Fellowship Church Board, Advisor to the Kern High School Entrepreneurship Resource Center Program, and African American Network of Kern.  Last, she also provides time mentoring nonprofit and for-profit business owners when time permits and teach financial education throughout the Valley Strong footprint.

Dedi Somavia, Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources, Tulare County of Education

Dedi Somavia serves as the Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources for Tulare County Office of Education. In her current role, she oversees the human resources department which includes recruitment, selection and assignments for all personnel, risk management, leaves, benefits and credentials. Dedi believes strongly in growing our young leaders through education and giving back to the community in which she was raised.

 Dedi has devoted her life to being an educator. Prior to coming to TCOE, Dedi worked for Visalia Unified School District for 21 years in a variety of roles which included: Assistant Superintendent, HRD; Administrator, HRD; Elementary School Principal; Assistant Principal; curriculum coach and elementary school teacher. Dedi holds a Master of Arts Degree in Education, a Reading Specialist credential, a Clear Multiple Subject Teaching credential and an Administrative Services credential from CSU, Fresno.  Dedi was raised in Visalia and returned home shortly after getting married to start a family in the city she loves. She is married to her husband, Bryan and together they have two beautiful daughters, Sydney and Shelby.

Dedi is a member of the Leadership Visalia Steering Committee and serves as board president for Visalia Police Activities League (PAL). 

Jake Sorensen, Agency Owner, SA Insurance Services Inc.

Jake Sorensen has committed his life to serving the public and at the age of 18, Jake joined the United States Marine Corps when duty called in 2003.  After four years of honorable service, Jake honorably served his local community for 14 years as a police officer.

Jake began his interest in the insurance industry in 2018 during a personal journey to improve his financial knowledge.  Jake quickly realized the important role insurance can play in your financial security.  Jake became licensed in Property & Casualty insurance as well as Life, Annuities, & Health insurance in 2018 and was introduced to American National Insurance Company.  Since that introduction, Jake became a multi-lines agency owner representing American National in 2019.  Jake has taken his passion for protecting and serving others and has transformed into a successful insurance agency and is the owner of S.A. Insurance Services Inc.

SA Insurance Services Inc. is a Central-California based insurance and financial services agency committed to complete transparency and safeguarding clients’ financial interests. Specializing in insurance and risk management planning, we focus on Farm & Ranch, Small Businesses and Families across the Western United States.

Jeremy Schultz, Founder and CEO, 1852 Visalia

Schultz, a proud product of Central California, was born in Visalia, grew up in the greater Fresno area and has recently returned to his roots in Visalia to launch Soccer City 1852 Visalia.  Schultz is the founder and CEO of the new, “footy and brews” business concept, that fosters his passion for soccer and local craft beer to create a family friendly destination where friendship is formed, and community thrives.  

Schultz retired from professional soccer in 2001 following a brief career in United Soccer Leagues.  As a player, the former Cal Poly SLO and Fresno State student-athlete won the Premier Development League National Championship with the Central Coast Roadrunners in 1996 and 1997. Schultz was a member of the USL A-League California Jaguars, Sacramento Geckos and San Francisco Bay Seals from 1998-2001.

His soccer journey did not stop as a player as he continued to pursue his desire as a leader eager to make a difference in the game.  Previously an owner and General Manager of the Fresno Fuego, GM of Fresno Freeze, and Assistant GM of USL Championship Fresno FC. He was a part of the inaugural coaching staff for California Odyssey’s US Soccer Development Academy and was hired as the Executive Director of California Odyssey in Clovis while maintaining his General Manager position with Fresno Fuego.  As General Manager of Fresno Fuego he twice won Organization of the Year, successfully assisted and guided over 60 players signing higher level professional contracts and was honored as a 2015 Business Street “40 under 40” recognizing outstanding business professionals in Central California.

On his return to Visalia in 2018, he joined Topograph, the local marketing agency as their Director of Business Development.  He also returned to his love for working with the youth where he is currently President and a Coach for South Valley United Soccer Club, an organization he helped found and direct beginning in 2002.  This organization has helped our local area youth to pursue higher education through sport while focusing on their five core values of Creativity, Character, Commitment, Consistency and Courage as the foundation to utilizing soccer as a platform to teach life skills and serve our community for over 20 years.

A former collegiate and professional soccer player, Jeremy has established himself as a leader in the game by utilizing soccer as a conduit to connection to make a difference in communities across the Valley. The mission of 1852 is to unite our community through sport. To serve our community and make a difference in the lives of youth, this will always be at the forefront of our vision for the 1852 project. 

Schultz lives in Visalia with his wife Cherie and three daughters Chloe, Bailey and Addison.

Selesta Sullivan, SinglePoint Outsourcing, Inc. 

Selesta Sullivan is an HR professional with over 10 years of experience, currently serving as an HR Business Partner at SinglePoint Outsourcing. Selesta collaborates with clients across diverse industries, providing tailored HR solutions that drive business success. Founded in 1998 in Visalia, CA, SinglePoint Outsourcing specializes in helping small businesses thrive through expert HR support. The team is known for its trusted, hands-on approach, offering guidance on workforce challenges with professionalism, care, and deep industry knowledge.

Merritt Wiseman, Community Leader & Advocate

Merritt Wiseman is a dedicated community leader with a deep passion for service, collaboration, and philanthropy. With an extensive background in nonprofit board service, she has spent years making a meaningful impact through leadership, strategic partnerships, and hands-on volunteerism.

Her professional career began in specialty pharmaceutical sales, where she worked for 15 years with Warner Chilcott Labs. However, for the past 17 years, her focus has been on raising her four children while actively engaging in volunteer work and community service.

Merritt currently serves as the President of the Board of the Historic Visalia Fox Theatre, where she helps preserve and enhance this cultural landmark. She is also a board member of the Bulldog Foundation, supporting student-athletes and university programs, and plays an active leadership role on the Rotary District 5230 Board and Visalia County Center Rotary Board, fostering service projects, membership growth, and engagement. 

A strong advocate for community support systems, she is the founder and a board member of CityServe Tulare Kings, an organization dedicated to mobilizing resources to assist those in need. Her previous board service includes time as President of Las Madrinas Guild for Valley Children's Hospital, where she helped raise critical funds for pediatric healthcare. She also served on the Coordinating Council, representing all 15 Valley Guilds, and was a board member for ImagineU Children's Museum, contributing to its mission of hands-on education and experiential learning.

Merritt’s heart for service is evident in everything she does. As a Rotarian, she believes deeply in the power of giving back, utilizing resources, and forging intuitive collaborations to accomplish meaningful projects. Whether leading nonprofit initiatives, mentoring others, or rolling up her sleeves for a cause, she is committed to making a lasting impact in her community.