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our team

Our team

LEADERSHIP

Betsy Brennan

President & CEO

Bio

As President and CEO, Betsy leads the Downtown San Diego Partnership, a member-based
organization focused on promoting an economically prosperous and culturally vibrant urban center for
Downtown’s residents, visitors, and employees. A graduate of the University of San Diego School of
Law, Betsy previously worked as Chief of Staff for then-Council President Scott Peters. She also held
executive-level positions at the Coastal Community Foundation of South Carolina, Tahoe Forest Health
System, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and San Diego State University. She has served on several local
nonprofit boards of directors, including her current positions on the boards of the San Diego Regional
Chamber of Commerce, the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation, University of San Diego School of Law Board of Visitors, and the Columbia Community Foundation. Betsy and her husband, Eli, and children are grateful to enjoy living in and discovering San Diego

Bio

Justin Apger

Chief Operations Officer

Bio

As Chief Operations Officer, Justin leads the day-to-day operations of the Downtown San Diego Partnership (DSDP), where he drives future growth and strategy for the 84-employee organization. Justin obtained his Bachelor of Arts from Baldwin-Wallace College with a major in International Business. He went on to attend Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts where he obtained his Master of Arts in Intercultural Relations with a concentration in Training and Consulting. Justin has a proven track record of stabilizing, systemizing, and growing businesses. He was a founding member of Mission Edge, one of the largest management consulting organizations for social enterprises and nonprofits in San Diego. He has served as an executive coach for local leaders, board strategist and startup specialist. Justin has also served in other operations and finance leadership roles, and as a human resource and operations consultant for event planning companies and restaurants. His community involvement includes Board membership on prominent community organizations, committee roles, and membership with the Society for Human Resource Management. Justin and his partner, JC, enjoy the theatre scene in San Diego, all the hiking opportunities our region offers and trying new restaurants in San Diego’s growing culinary space.

Bio

Alonso Vivas

Senior Vice President &

Executive Director

Clean & Safe

Bio

Alonso Vivas is the Executive Director of the Downtown San Diego Partnership’s Clean & Safe Program. He appreciates working with community members to provide a safe, clean, and pleasant environment, and working alongside Clean & Safe’s Maintenance and Safety Ambassadors every single day. Alonso was born in Santa Ana, California, and grew up in Tijuana and Chula Vista, where he managed his family’s businesses (a tortilla shop in Tijuana and an automotive business in Chula Vista). He and his wonderful wife have three incredible daughters who are three, eight, and 12 years old.

Bio

Kaitlin Payne

Senior Vice

President

Membership & EventS

Bio

Kaitlin serves as Senior Vice President of Membership and Events for the Downtown San Diego Partnership. Her primary focus is on member recruitment, engagement, and events. She is charged with maintaining membership retention and guiding member participation in Partnership initiatives and activities. In addition, Kaitlin is responsible for ensuring excellent member experiences across the organization. She is a graduate of California State University, San Marcos (where she received a bachelor’s degree in Communication), and a member of the YoungPro Elite San Diego Chapter. Kaitlin is a native San Diegan, and - in her free time - she enjoys riding her beach cruiser along the beach and bay, exercising, hiking, snowboarding, traveling, and exploring the sites, sips, and bites throughout Downtown San Diego.

Bio

Sarah Brothers

Vice President of Marketing

& Communications

Bio

Sarah oversees the Marketing & Communications department for the Downtown San Diego Partnership. Her responsibilities include connecting residents, businesses and stakeholders to the DSDP’s stories of impact, advocacy and growth, showcasing DSDP marketing initiatives and campaigns, and managing the development of creative assets to promote Downtown’s prominence in the region. Sarah received her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, San Diego. With her combined history in both public service and public relations she brings a strong background in communications, marketing and government to the DSDP. She is a graduate of the LEAD Impact program, serves on the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Young Leaders board and spends her spare time performing with a local choir.

Bio

Josh Coyne

Director of Government

Affairs

Bio

As Director of Government Affairs, Josh leads a team that elevates the mission and vision of the Downtown San Diego Partnership by cultivating and maintaining critical relationships to advance transformative policies and projects. Josh received his undergraduate degree from Niagara University and his master’s degree from Canisius College. Additionally, Josh is a graduate of the San Diego Leadership Alliance and a current board member for San Diego LGBT Pride. For self-care, Josh and his partner John enjoy traveling, walking their rescue dog Lucy along the beach, and enjoying a glass (or two!) of wine. 

Bio

THE DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO PARTNERSHIP TEAM

Terri Johnson

Director of Finance &

Administration

Taylor Stahl

Director of Special Projects

Bio

As the Director of Special Projects, Taylor supports the organization by driving growth-focused initiatives and executing multi-year strategies. Taylor oversees key initiatives and manages a portfolio of long- and short-term projects to achieve the organization’s goals and vision. She has a passion for process improvement and enjoys collaborating with internal and external stakeholders alike. Taylor graduated from the University of California, San Diego with a bachelor’s degree in Biology and a focus in Spanish Linguistics. She is a graduate of the LEAD Advance program (19) and obtained her Project Management certification from Cornell University. Taylor is passionate about sports, photography, and travel. When she’s not working, you can find her battling it out on the pickleball courts, working on a home DIY project, or spending time with friends and family.

Bio

Sean Warner

Director of Community

Enhancement

Clean & Safe

Bio

Sean is responsible for overseeing the Downtown San Diego Business Improvement District, Commercial Enhancement Program, and charitable foundations, as well as neighborhood placemaking and activations. Prior to joining the DSDP team, Sean served as Placemaking Manager at the Downtown Long Beach Alliance. In this role, he initiated experiential placemaking and pedestrian enhancement projects, such as crosswalk art, pedestrian wayfinding signage, and a temporary urban park space called The Loop at Pine Ocean. Sean is a graduate of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo where he received his degree in City and Regional Planning. He is an active member of the International Downtown Association, where he participated on the inaugural Pedestrian Improvements Council. As a recent transplant to San Diego, Sean enjoys exploring Downtown and its unique neighborhoods and experiences with his wife and their young son.

Bio

Ernesto Romo

Director of Maintenance

Services

Clean & Safe

Bio

Ernesto began his journey with the Downtown Partnership as a Maintenance Ambassador in 2008. His
time on the maintenance team gave him great insight into the different dynamic communities in Downtown San Diego. His hard work and dedication to improving Downtown quickly led Ernesto to a supervisor role, then to Operations Manager for the Clean & Safe program. Now, Ernesto manages maintenance, landscaping, power washing, special projects, volunteer events, and contractors. Outside of work, he spends time every week volunteering at Cornerstone Church of San Diego. Ernesto thoroughly enjoys being an active member of both his church and Downtown communities. He
appreciates having the opportunity to make a difference in creating a clean, safe, enjoyable Downtown San Diego.

Bio

Dani Garcia

Director of Safety Services

Clean & Safe

Bio

Dani’s journey with Clean & Safe began in 2014 when she started as a maintenance ambassador, detailing the streets of East Village and City Center. Five years later, after being promoted to both Captain and Supervisor, Dani now serves as the Clean & Safe Operations Manager and is proud to contribute to the success of her team alongside her colleagues. Raised in National City and a San Diegan at heart, Dani comes from a large family and grew up playing soccer. Now, she coaches her nieces’ soccer teams – they are undefeated champions! Dani also likes traveling to different national parks to find peace and quiet in nature. Locally, she enjoys attending small-venue concerts and Symphony performances at the Tower or the Embarcadero.

Bio

Alex Gutierrez

Director of Special Districts

Bio

Alex has been with the Downtown San Diego Partnership’s Clean & Safe Program since 2008. He leads the day-to-day operations of the organization and has spearheaded the implementation of new service enhancement programs in the Downtown Property and Business Improvement District. Throughout his years with the Downtown Partnership, Alex has developed strong relationships with business and property owners, neighborhood groups, city officials and staff members, and law enforcement officers. He has 15 years of experience in local and international nonprofit program management. In 2010, Alex went back to school and obtained his B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. When he is not working, Alex enjoys spending time with his family (including his Whoodle pup, Max), working on carpentry projects, and riding his motorcycle.

Bio

Rebecca Rybczyk

Economic Development &

Government Affairs Manager

Bio

Rebecca leads economic development initiatives for the Downtown San Diego Partnership and helps advocate for Downtown’s many residents and businesses as part of the government affairs team. Her goal in both roles is to support our Downtown neighborhoods and keep our region competitive. With a background in strategic communications and both federal and local government experience, she keeps our Downtown audiences connected and in-the-know. Rebecca earned her bachelor’s degree in political communication and journalism from Emerson College and her master’s degree in strategic communication from American University. When not advocating for Downtown, Rebecca can be found supporting our local restaurants or exploring San Diego’s hiking trails with her dog.

Bio

Kathryn Newstead

Membership Development &

Programs Manager

Bio

As the Downtown Partnership’s Membership Development and Programs Manager, Kathryn manages all aspects of the organization's member events and programs. She is also responsible for supporting the Downtown Partnership's membership recruitment and retention efforts. Kathryn is a San Diego native and has spent the majority of her career in the hospitality and event industry in Downtown. She loves that her work provides the opportunity to work creatively to deliver memorable experiences. Kathryn received her bachelor’s degree in communication from the University of California, San Diego. Outside of work, she enjoys going to concerts, practicing yoga, spending time with friends and family, and trying out different restaurants around San Diego.

Bio

Rio Sison

Accounting Manager

Bio

Rio currently serves as the Accounting Manager for the Downtown San Diego Partnership. She graduated San Diego State University in 2014 with a Bachelors in Accounting and is currently working towards obtaining her CPA license. Prior to joining the DSDP team, she has had over 7 years of experience in the tax & accounting industry and connected with many small business employers to assist in providing bookkeeping and payroll services. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her baby blue nose pitbull, rock climbing, and practicing yoga.

Bio

Tyler Duncan

Human Resource Manager

Bio

As the Downtown San Diego Partnership’s Human Resources Manager, Tyler oversees the organization's employee relations, recruiting, performance management, code of compliance, and health & safety programs. Originally from Los Angeles, Tyler received his degree in Biological Psychology with a minor in Peace and Justice Studies from Pace University. Tyler is a highly effective and committed leader in the Human Resources Sector, working nationally in the private and nonprofit sector as a certified professional with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-CP) and the Human Resource Certification Institute (PHR). Tyler is honored to be a part of an organization that serves as the principal voice and driving force for the economic prosperity and cultural vitality of Downtown San Diego. You may also see him serving on the Human Relations Commission for the city of San Diego or as a member of the San Diego Branch of the NAACP. In his free time, Tyler enjoys relaxing on the beach and immersing himself in the wide variety of arts and culture that San Diego has to offer.

Bio

Regina Nolte-Ware

Operations Manager

Clean & Safe

Bio

Regina started working for Clean & Safe as a maintenance ambassador in 2005. Now, after having served as both an assistant supervisor and a supervisor, Regina manages the operations of financial functions for the program in her role as Finance and Operations Specialist. Regina received her A.A. in Behavioral Sciences and a Certificate in Mental Health from San Diego City College in 2013. She also received her B.A. in Liberal Arts (with an emphasis on Social Work – Gerontology) in 2019, and plans to return to SDSU for a Masters in Social Work.  When not in the office, Regina enjoys traveling, going to the movies, and spending time with her family. She volunteers for the City of San Diego’s Therapeutic Services where she works at events hosted for mentally challenged adults, as well as at the Neighborhood House Adult Day Health Center. working with the seniors.

Bio

Danielle Cobb

Marketing & Communications

Manager

Sam Ramirez

Marketing Designer

Carolyn Perkins

Executive Assistant & Board

Liaison

Bio

Carolyn serves as the Executive Assistant and Board Liaison for the Partnership. She is responsible for keeping up with the CEO’s “chock-full” calendar and prepares for the Officers, Executive Committee, and Board of Directors meetings, happily assisting in all Partnership events. Prior to joining the Partnership, Carolyn served on staff for City Council District 2. Carolyn grew up in beautiful Claremont, California and received a B.S. in Environmental Design from San Diego State University. Her passion for San Diego started in a class entitled “Geography of Cities,” and she has worked for several civil engineering, architecture, and landscape architecture firms in San Diego. Carolyn thoroughly appreciates being part of the team helping to keep San Diego “America’s Finest City.” In her spare time, she enjoys her three young-adult kids, puttering around in her yard, and spending time at the beach - especially when the ocean is warm.

Bio

Charity Jones

Office Coordinator

Clean & Safe

Bio

As the Downtown Partnership’s Membership Development and Programs Manager, Kathryn manages all aspects of the organization's member events and programs. She is also responsible for supporting the Downtown Partnership's membership recruitment and retention efforts. Kathryn is a San Diego native and has spent the majority of her career in the hospitality and event industry in Downtown. She loves that her work provides the opportunity to work creatively to deliver memorable experiences. Kathryn received her bachelor’s degree in communication from the University of California, San Diego. Outside of work, she enjoys going to concerts, practicing yoga, spending time with friends and family, and trying out different restaurants around San Diego.

Bio

Carlos Escalante

Placemaking Coordinator

Clean & Safe

Rose Harris

Program Manager of

Outreach Services

Bio

Rose joins the Downtown San Diego Partnership with years of diverse experience in the social services field as both a volunteer and as an employee. Her most recent work includes service as a Supervisor of Residential Care at Father Joe's Villages. In that role, she oversaw 324 male beds all in one large hall. Rose’s past experience also includes work as an IT and Operations Analyst at a county organization, work for nonprofits, marketing agencies, and fundraising organizations, and even time teaching meditation techniques at Los Colinas Women's Reentry Facility. Rose loves to paint, box, rock climb, go solo backpacking and paddle board. She was born and raised in San Diego. 

Bio

Jocelyn Johnson-Wilson

Homeless Outreach Lead

Coordinator

Bio

Jocelyn comes to the Downtown San Diego Partnership with 14 years of experience working with people experiencing homelessness. Prior to joining the Downtown Partnership team, Jocelyn was a Case Manager III for Lutheran Social Services of Southwest out of Phoenix, Arizona. During her time at Lutheran Social Services of Southwest, she oversaw the women’s shelter in Mesa, Arizona and the men and women’s shelter in Surprise, Arizona. Jocelyn brings a great deal of compassion, dignity, respect and experience to her work with the less fortunate. During her time out of the office, she enjoys traveling and exploring new things! 

Bio

Marlene Ayala

Homeless Outreach

Coordinator

Bio

Bio

Keturah Jackson

Homeless Outreach

Coordinator 

Bio

Keturah manages daily data maintenance and tracking and follow-up communication with individuals served through the Family Reunification Program. Keturah joined the Homeless Outreach Team from Father Joe’s Villages, where, for seven years, she was the Guest Services Supervisor and Residential Specialist for the singles and family living center. She graduated from California College San Diego. In her free time, Keturah likes to play softball and a variety of other sports. She enjoys doing lots of outdoor activities in San Diego – especially hiking along Mission Trails. Last, but certainly not least, Keturah is a huge Pittsburg Steelers’ fan!

Bio

Megan Fowler

Homeless Outreach

Coordinator

Bio

Megan joins the Downtown San Diego Partnership team with her most recent experience as both a resource and then an outreach specialist with Father Joe’s. Megan enjoys playing soccer and computer games, and spending time with her two cats. She is proud to have been born and raised here in San Diego.  

Bio

Sabrina Washington

Travel Coordinator

Bio

Sabrina joined the homeless outreach team in September of 2019 as the Travel Coordinator. Before her journey to the Partnership, she worked as a college advisor through UC San Diego’s TRiO Outreach Program, where she guided and advised first generation, low income high school students in their pursuit of higher education. Sabrina graduated from UC San Diego in 2018 with a B.A. in Ethnic Studies, which led to her interests in community and outreach work. She has always been passionate about changing her community in a positive way and helping others be the best version of themselves. Since working in Downtown, Sabrina has learned there is always something new to see, but most of all, she loves being able to help a community that people often ignore or shame. In the future, she hopes to pursue a PhD in clinical psychology with a focus on black trauma and PTSD. When Sabrina is not at work she loves to read, paint, and learn new skills.

Bio

Roger Flores

Homeless Outreach Data

Entry Coordinator

Cesar Lara

Operations Supervisor

Clean & Safe

Mark Springer

Operations Supervisor

Clean & Safe

John Bolin

Operations Supervisor

Clean & Safe

Peter Hernandez

Operations Supervisor

Clean & Safe

Johnnie Long

Operations Supervisor

Clean & Safe

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