Board Members
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Lynn L. Pennington
President and Co-Chair Secret Garden Tour
Education has been the mainstay of Lynn’s career, with 40 plus years in the field. She’s held a number of professional positions including those with school districts and universities, and as an independent educational consultant. She recently retired as the executive director of the Student Support Team Association for Georgia Educators (SSTAGE), a non-profit professional association she helped create in 2007. Lynn has also served as the president of the Newtown Park Community Foundation and the Centennial High School Foundation for the Fine Arts. She chaired the Parks and Recreation study group for the Committee for Johns Creek. Currently, she is a board member of the Cultural Arts Alliance at Johns Creek and is a member of the Johns Creek Historical Society.
Education has been the mainstay of Lynn’s career, with 40 plus years in the field. She’s held a number of professional positions including those with school districts and universities, and as an independent educational consultant. She recently retired as the executive director of the Student Support Team Association for Georgia Educators (SSTAGE), a non-profit professional association she helped create in 2007. Lynn has also served as the president of the Newtown Park Community Foundation and the Centennial High School Foundation for the Fine Arts. She chaired the Parks and Recreation study group for the Committee for Johns Creek. Currently, she is a board member of the Cultural Arts Alliance at Johns Creek and is a member of the Johns Creek Historical Society.
Marilyn Davis
Treasurer and Daffodils4Hope Chair
Marilyn Davis has served Johns Creek Beautification on the Board as Treasurer since 2016, as a member of the Secret Garden Tour Committee since its inception in 2018, and founded the Daffodils4Hope program in 2018. Marilyn has lived in the Johns Creek/Alpharetta area since 1986 and has served on numerous boards and volunteer positions in the arts, education, and worship space in the local community. Driving fundraising and financial good health has been her main service focus in her not-for-profit tenure.
Marilyn brings over 35 years of financial experience to JCB. Marilyn is an owner of Davis & Langford CPA firm, is ex Big4 with KPMG, worked over a decade at Coca-Cola, including the Coca-Cola Foundation in Atlanta, served as acting controller for the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation in Kansas City with over 2 billion in assets, and has held financial positions with businesses across the country. She holds CPA licenses in Georgia and Florida and an MBA and Bachelors degree in Accounting. Marilyn is a member of the Georgia and Florida Society of CPAs and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
In her personal life, Marilyn is a Georgia Master Gardener, mother of 5 children all of whom are Eagle and Gold Award Scout recipients, was an avid volunteer in Boy Scouts and was a Girl Scout leader for over 12 years. She continues as a choir member at JC Presbyterian since 1997 and sits on the Preschool Board there. Marilyn and her husband Cliff enjoyed opening their property as a recent Secret Gardens Tour stop and delight in teaching volunteers to plant tens of thousands of daffodils across our fair city.
Marilyn Davis has served Johns Creek Beautification on the Board as Treasurer since 2016, as a member of the Secret Garden Tour Committee since its inception in 2018, and founded the Daffodils4Hope program in 2018. Marilyn has lived in the Johns Creek/Alpharetta area since 1986 and has served on numerous boards and volunteer positions in the arts, education, and worship space in the local community. Driving fundraising and financial good health has been her main service focus in her not-for-profit tenure.
Marilyn brings over 35 years of financial experience to JCB. Marilyn is an owner of Davis & Langford CPA firm, is ex Big4 with KPMG, worked over a decade at Coca-Cola, including the Coca-Cola Foundation in Atlanta, served as acting controller for the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation in Kansas City with over 2 billion in assets, and has held financial positions with businesses across the country. She holds CPA licenses in Georgia and Florida and an MBA and Bachelors degree in Accounting. Marilyn is a member of the Georgia and Florida Society of CPAs and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
In her personal life, Marilyn is a Georgia Master Gardener, mother of 5 children all of whom are Eagle and Gold Award Scout recipients, was an avid volunteer in Boy Scouts and was a Girl Scout leader for over 12 years. She continues as a choir member at JC Presbyterian since 1997 and sits on the Preschool Board there. Marilyn and her husband Cliff enjoyed opening their property as a recent Secret Gardens Tour stop and delight in teaching volunteers to plant tens of thousands of daffodils across our fair city.
Jennifer Schau
Secretary and Co-Chair Secret Garden Tour
After working in both South Carolina and Georgia as a school psychologist for more than 28 years, Jennifer recently retired from Forsyth County Schools. Throughout her career she was trained in crisis response, child abuse prevention, and mediation. Jennifer's career has been focused on child advocacy for the needs of students and parents, as well as providing professional learning for the schools and communities she served. In the past she has been the president and regional representative on the board of a non-profit educational organization. At the community level Jennifer has been a Girl Scout leader for a cadet troop.
After working in both South Carolina and Georgia as a school psychologist for more than 28 years, Jennifer recently retired from Forsyth County Schools. Throughout her career she was trained in crisis response, child abuse prevention, and mediation. Jennifer's career has been focused on child advocacy for the needs of students and parents, as well as providing professional learning for the schools and communities she served. In the past she has been the president and regional representative on the board of a non-profit educational organization. At the community level Jennifer has been a Girl Scout leader for a cadet troop.
Mic (Michele) Bishop
Director
Mic Bishop is an accomplished freelance graphic designer with over 25 years of experience. Holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Michigan State University, Mic's interest lies in creating captivating visual experiences. She made her mark in 2022 as a key member of the Secret Garden Committee, leading the redesign of the Secret Garden Logo and promotional materials for the highly anticipated 2023 Secret Garden Tour. Mic’s artistic flair extends beyond her professional pursuits, with a lengthy history of volunteering with school organizations like the PTSA, and contributing her skills to crafting intricate costumes, hats, and set pieces for various school theater productions. When she's not designing, Mic enjoys gardening, tennis, yoga, and baking. Since 2002, Mic has been an active part of the Johns Creek community alongside her husband, two teenagers, and two silly dogs.
Mic Bishop is an accomplished freelance graphic designer with over 25 years of experience. Holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Michigan State University, Mic's interest lies in creating captivating visual experiences. She made her mark in 2022 as a key member of the Secret Garden Committee, leading the redesign of the Secret Garden Logo and promotional materials for the highly anticipated 2023 Secret Garden Tour. Mic’s artistic flair extends beyond her professional pursuits, with a lengthy history of volunteering with school organizations like the PTSA, and contributing her skills to crafting intricate costumes, hats, and set pieces for various school theater productions. When she's not designing, Mic enjoys gardening, tennis, yoga, and baking. Since 2002, Mic has been an active part of the Johns Creek community alongside her husband, two teenagers, and two silly dogs.
Liliana Brenner
Director
Liliana has served as a member of the Secret Garden Tour Committee since 2018. She has provided technical and creative support for Johns Creek Beautification's website and online presence for several years. As an independent Web designer and IT Consultant, with a Bachelor's degree in Science Technology, Liliana has been volunteering her time promoting Environmental Education in our community since her move here from Germany in 2005. She helped develop a hands-on, elementary school science program for the Teaching Museum North and served on the North Fulton Council PTA board as the VP of Environmental Education and as President of the organization.
Liliana has served as a member of the Secret Garden Tour Committee since 2018. She has provided technical and creative support for Johns Creek Beautification's website and online presence for several years. As an independent Web designer and IT Consultant, with a Bachelor's degree in Science Technology, Liliana has been volunteering her time promoting Environmental Education in our community since her move here from Germany in 2005. She helped develop a hands-on, elementary school science program for the Teaching Museum North and served on the North Fulton Council PTA board as the VP of Environmental Education and as President of the organization.
Lynn Canty
Director and ArtSpot Chair
Lynn is the Director of Operations for the Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology of the American Psychological Association and serves as a class trustee for the University of Virginia. She is the former Executive Director of Leadership Johns Creek and served as co-chair of the Leadership Class that proposed the Public Art Master Plan for the City of Johns Creek. Lynn is a theatrical costume hobbyist and an honorary member of the International Thespian Society. As a community volunteer Lynn has served as the Cultural Arts Committee chair, Boy Scout leader, ALTA Vice President, Hands-On and Keep Johns Creek Beautiful Coordinator.
Lynn is the Director of Operations for the Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology of the American Psychological Association and serves as a class trustee for the University of Virginia. She is the former Executive Director of Leadership Johns Creek and served as co-chair of the Leadership Class that proposed the Public Art Master Plan for the City of Johns Creek. Lynn is a theatrical costume hobbyist and an honorary member of the International Thespian Society. As a community volunteer Lynn has served as the Cultural Arts Committee chair, Boy Scout leader, ALTA Vice President, Hands-On and Keep Johns Creek Beautiful Coordinator.
Donna Heinzelmann
Director and Co-Chair Secret Garden Tour
Donna has balanced her career in the dental field with her passion for gardening over her 32 years of residency in our area. She’s served on neighborhood committees and has joined state and national gardening organizations, including the American Orchid Society, the American Horticulture Society, the American Hydrangea Society and the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Donna designed, planted and maintains her own beautiful garden, which was featured on the Secret Garden Tour in 2019 and 2021. Her garden will be showcased on the 2022 American Hydrangea Garden Tour. Recently, she added a greenhouse to her garden to grow orchids. Donna brings enthusiasm and knowledge to the JCB Board and wants to keep Johns Creek a beautiful place to live
Donna has balanced her career in the dental field with her passion for gardening over her 32 years of residency in our area. She’s served on neighborhood committees and has joined state and national gardening organizations, including the American Orchid Society, the American Horticulture Society, the American Hydrangea Society and the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Donna designed, planted and maintains her own beautiful garden, which was featured on the Secret Garden Tour in 2019 and 2021. Her garden will be showcased on the 2022 American Hydrangea Garden Tour. Recently, she added a greenhouse to her garden to grow orchids. Donna brings enthusiasm and knowledge to the JCB Board and wants to keep Johns Creek a beautiful place to live
Cassandra Littlejohn
Director
Cassandra Littlejohn is a seasoned consultant, entrepreneur, and grassroots organizer. She made history in 2005 as the first African American elected to the At-Large position on the DeKalb County School Board in Georgia and later served as chair for consecutive terms. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies, is a Certified Personal Development Coach, and an ordained Church Elder. Cassandra has excelled as a program director, political consultant, and community leader in San Antonio, TX, and later returned to Georgia in 2020. She is a proud Leadership Johns Creek alumnus, co-chair of the Daffodils for Hope project at Johns Creek Beautification, and serves on various boards and civic initiatives. Cassandra attends Eagles Nest Church in Roswell, GA, alongside her husband Kevin Littlejohn.While she finds fulfillment in her political and community roles, Cassandra's greatest joys stem from her family, including children, grandchildren, and her miniature poodle, Ace.
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Cassandra Littlejohn is a seasoned consultant, entrepreneur, and grassroots organizer. She made history in 2005 as the first African American elected to the At-Large position on the DeKalb County School Board in Georgia and later served as chair for consecutive terms. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies, is a Certified Personal Development Coach, and an ordained Church Elder. Cassandra has excelled as a program director, political consultant, and community leader in San Antonio, TX, and later returned to Georgia in 2020. She is a proud Leadership Johns Creek alumnus, co-chair of the Daffodils for Hope project at Johns Creek Beautification, and serves on various boards and civic initiatives. Cassandra attends Eagles Nest Church in Roswell, GA, alongside her husband Kevin Littlejohn.While she finds fulfillment in her political and community roles, Cassandra's greatest joys stem from her family, including children, grandchildren, and her miniature poodle, Ace.
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Matt Nunez
Director
Matt Nunez has dedicated 13 years to public service in Charlotte Water, focusing on water quality and environmental management programs. During this time, he also embraced the role of a stay-at-home dad, witnessing his three children's growth from toddlers to ten years old. Matt's passion for the outdoors ignited during his participation in the Master Gardeners Program in St. Augustine, FL, which fueled a fascination and addiction to native plants.
Armed with a B.A. degree in Environmental Studies from UNC-Wilmington (UNCW), he always envisioned playing an active part in environmental protection. For Matt, the journey to improve our local environments begins at home, where he works diligently to restore diverse life forms on his property. Beyond his property endeavors, Matt serves as a Naturalist at Elachee Nature Science Center in Gainesville, GA, where he educates local students about their incredibly rich environment. Matt's deep love for soccer seamlessly weaves into every aspect of his life. He actively plays in a men's league and coaches his kids' soccer teams, bringing a wealth of experience to the field.
In addition to his busy schedule, Matt and his wife, Christina, care for two beloved family pets, filling their remaining moments with joy and companionship.
Matt Nunez has dedicated 13 years to public service in Charlotte Water, focusing on water quality and environmental management programs. During this time, he also embraced the role of a stay-at-home dad, witnessing his three children's growth from toddlers to ten years old. Matt's passion for the outdoors ignited during his participation in the Master Gardeners Program in St. Augustine, FL, which fueled a fascination and addiction to native plants.
Armed with a B.A. degree in Environmental Studies from UNC-Wilmington (UNCW), he always envisioned playing an active part in environmental protection. For Matt, the journey to improve our local environments begins at home, where he works diligently to restore diverse life forms on his property. Beyond his property endeavors, Matt serves as a Naturalist at Elachee Nature Science Center in Gainesville, GA, where he educates local students about their incredibly rich environment. Matt's deep love for soccer seamlessly weaves into every aspect of his life. He actively plays in a men's league and coaches his kids' soccer teams, bringing a wealth of experience to the field.
In addition to his busy schedule, Matt and his wife, Christina, care for two beloved family pets, filling their remaining moments with joy and companionship.
Marty Thomas
Director
Marty Thomas brings decades of community dedication and a wealth of experience to our cause. Having been an integral part of our community for decades, Marty's journey in John's Creek is a testament to her unwavering dedication. Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Marty relocated to John's Creek in 1991, where she has since made her mark as a devoted educator, nurturing young minds in elementary schools for years. Marty's involvement in various aspects of community life extends far beyond the classroom. She has been a cherished volunteer docent for our John's Creek garden tours, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for horticulture with all who attend. This longstanding commitment exemplifies her dedication to our community's beautification.
In 2018, she earned the title of Master Gardener, demonstrating her green thumb and commitment to cultivating beauty in our city. Her gardening prowess has also been extended to the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, where her volunteer work has enriched the local ecosystem. Marty is an active member of the National Hydrangea Society, aligning with our mission to nurture the environment. She also contributes to the spiritual well-being of our community through the Women's Ministry at First Redeemer Church, where she also leads engaging Bible study discussion groups.
In her free time, Marty enjoys quality moments with her four lively grandchildren, embodying the essence of family values.
Marty Thomas brings decades of community dedication and a wealth of experience to our cause. Having been an integral part of our community for decades, Marty's journey in John's Creek is a testament to her unwavering dedication. Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Marty relocated to John's Creek in 1991, where she has since made her mark as a devoted educator, nurturing young minds in elementary schools for years. Marty's involvement in various aspects of community life extends far beyond the classroom. She has been a cherished volunteer docent for our John's Creek garden tours, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for horticulture with all who attend. This longstanding commitment exemplifies her dedication to our community's beautification.
In 2018, she earned the title of Master Gardener, demonstrating her green thumb and commitment to cultivating beauty in our city. Her gardening prowess has also been extended to the Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, where her volunteer work has enriched the local ecosystem. Marty is an active member of the National Hydrangea Society, aligning with our mission to nurture the environment. She also contributes to the spiritual well-being of our community through the Women's Ministry at First Redeemer Church, where she also leads engaging Bible study discussion groups.
In her free time, Marty enjoys quality moments with her four lively grandchildren, embodying the essence of family values.
Julie Coco
Director Emeritus
Julie Coco currently serves New South Associates, Inc. as Associate Director of the History Department and Senior Historian. She manages large on-call contracts and history projects and is responsible for tracking history project schedules and performance. As a Senior Historian, Julie conducts archival and oral historical research and reporting, surveys, assessments of effects, and has developed historic preservation plans, management documents, exhibits, and public outreach materials. She has experience in ethnohistory, historic preservation planning, cultural anthropology, historic archaeology, Native American consultation, HABS/HAER documentation, museum exhibit design, public history/outreach, NEPA and Section 106 Compliance, National Register of Historic Places nominations and cemetery studies. For the past 16 years, she has lived in Johns Creek with her husband and their two sons and has been an active volunteer with their Cub Scout and Boy Scout units, River Trail’s band program, Northview’s Fine Arts Association and Wilson Creek’s Science Force Program.
Julie Coco currently serves New South Associates, Inc. as Associate Director of the History Department and Senior Historian. She manages large on-call contracts and history projects and is responsible for tracking history project schedules and performance. As a Senior Historian, Julie conducts archival and oral historical research and reporting, surveys, assessments of effects, and has developed historic preservation plans, management documents, exhibits, and public outreach materials. She has experience in ethnohistory, historic preservation planning, cultural anthropology, historic archaeology, Native American consultation, HABS/HAER documentation, museum exhibit design, public history/outreach, NEPA and Section 106 Compliance, National Register of Historic Places nominations and cemetery studies. For the past 16 years, she has lived in Johns Creek with her husband and their two sons and has been an active volunteer with their Cub Scout and Boy Scout units, River Trail’s band program, Northview’s Fine Arts Association and Wilson Creek’s Science Force Program.
Chuck Wilkinson
Director Emeritus
Chuck has been a Johns Creek Beautification member since 2014. As part of JCB, he was a founding member of the Secret Gardens of Johns Creek tour serving on the Organizing Committee in 2018 and leading it in 2019 as president. Chuck is a Georgia Master Gardener and served as president of the Madison Park Property Owners’ Association from 2012 through early 2020. He was also an active member of the Berkeley Lake Conservancy (former Board Member and Past President) and Berkeley Walk HOA (former Board Member). Chuck has lived in the Atlanta metro area since 1994 including residing in or around the City of Johns Creek, GA since 2010. Professionally, he has spent his entire career in the technology and services industry with much of that leading teams that develop, implement and support enterprise business software.
Chuck has been a Johns Creek Beautification member since 2014. As part of JCB, he was a founding member of the Secret Gardens of Johns Creek tour serving on the Organizing Committee in 2018 and leading it in 2019 as president. Chuck is a Georgia Master Gardener and served as president of the Madison Park Property Owners’ Association from 2012 through early 2020. He was also an active member of the Berkeley Lake Conservancy (former Board Member and Past President) and Berkeley Walk HOA (former Board Member). Chuck has lived in the Atlanta metro area since 1994 including residing in or around the City of Johns Creek, GA since 2010. Professionally, he has spent his entire career in the technology and services industry with much of that leading teams that develop, implement and support enterprise business software.