DDP Team

Cristina is an integral part of the fund development team, where she plays a key role in managing membership, giving, and strategic partnerships. With a passion for driving impact, she brings a unique blend of experience and expertise to her work. Cristina earned her undergraduate degree from The College of Wooster and went on to pursue a master’s degree in Nonprofit Management at Johns Hopkins University.

KaTaya is a project manager for the Downtown Detroit Business Improvement Zone (BIZ) Ambassador team, ensuring the Ambassador program runs smoothly. The BIZ creates a clean, safe, and vibrant Downtown through services provided to property owners, businesses, residents and employees.

Soula is a born and raised Detroiter who brings 25 years of experience in sales and events partnerships including eight seasons with the Detroit Tigers. In her role at DDP she leads all fundraising efforts, which include grants, major gifts, legacy giving, general membership, individual donor giving, and corporate partnerships. Soula is passionate about advocating for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as supporting several local animal rescue and adoption organizations.

Laura oversees 1,200+ annual events across DDP’s 18 parks and public spaces like Campus Martius Park, drawing over 4.5 million visitors a year. She collaborates with community partners, small business owners and artists to provide free, diverse programming, including the Detroit Tree Lighting and headline concerts. Laura champions immersive experiences, curating acclaimed installations like Swinging Bells and Horizon at Beacon Park. A Certified Meetings Professional, her extensive career includes experiential campaigns for Chevy and Ford, and event planning for The Henry Ford Museum. Her work reflects her commitment to Detroit’s cultural vibrancy and community development.

Isaac supports the coordination, administration, documentation, and communication of projects within DDP’s Urban Innovation department. Isaac attended Bowling Green State University where he earned his Bachelor’s in Architectural and Environmental Design.

Ryan has been affiliated with the Downtown Detroit Partnership since 2013. He was operations manager for Clean Detroit and has managed the Business Improvement Zone operations since its inception in 2014. Ryan now is working with the Detroit Grand Prix as operations manager.

With over twenty years of experience, James has helped inform citywide policy, infrastructure, transportation, and development planning. His Downtown work includes placemaking and public space improvements to Campus Martius Park, Capitol Park, Grand Circus Park, and the Woodward Esplanade. Previous projects include completion of the 7.2 Sq Mi Report on Greater Downtown Detroit and the Greater Downtown Transit-Oriented Development Strategy. James received his Master of Architecture and Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Michigan. Additionally, James was a key strategist on the Detroit Future City Strategic Framework Plan, and is also the founding principal of Detroit-based urban design practice City Form Detroit.

Alex works with the DDP’s operational staff, overseeing day-to-day efficiency, safety, cleanliness, and aesthetic appeal of all 18 parks and public spaces that the DDP programs and manages. This includes leading and providing direction to key, year-round partners that are essential to public space operations, including: landscaping, maintenance, MEP systems, HVAC, facilities, safety and security, cleaning, ice rink, tenting, restaurants and cafes, fountains, games, public WIFI and telecommunications, historical monuments, among other public or back of house assets.

Previously, Alex served as the general manager of The Rink at Campus Martius Park for 17 years. Additionally, he also brings to his role his expertise from his time as a film, TV, and commercial location manager working with Warner Bros., Paramount Pictures, Amazon Studios, and several other commercial production companies.

Elise holds a bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Michigan State University. She has 15 years of experience working in the non-profit community and economic development sector in Detroit. As Senior Director of Urban Innovation, she provides critical support and management for the DDP BIZ Ambassador and Clean Detroit programs and provides support for capital projects, urban innovation, and other special projects within the organization. Prior to joining the DDP she was the Chief Operating Officer for Midtown Detroit, Inc. (MDI), working directly on operations and program management. She provided direct oversight of the organizations Façade Matching Grant program, Small Business Development & Assistance program, Public Space Maintenance initiatives, Grants, and a number of MDI’s district planning efforts.

Sharon leads the DDP’s marketing, communications, digital and brand recognition strategies; and works with media to share DDP’s story, mission, vision and core values to drive awareness of the role the organization plays in Detroit. Sharon provides leadership to advance the corporate messaging and brand management strategy across all DDP business units. She holds a BA from the School of Communication at San Diego State University, an MA in Social Sciences from University of Chicago, and achieved her APR (Accreditation in Public Relations) in 2011.

Abby Haag is a recent college graduate with a strong commitment to service and global engagement. While completing her degree in political science and communication, she earned Alma College’s top research award in the humanities for work on partisan media. As an active participant in Model United Nations, Abby developed skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and sparked a deeper interest in international cooperation. Motivated by a desire to advance equity and social good, she eagerly contributes her talents to supporting DDP’s mission and core values.

Nicholas Holub is the Program Coordinator for the Business Improvement Zone (BIZ) Ambassador Program, which helps keep Downtown Detroit and nearby districts clean, safe, and welcoming. He helps ensure that Ambassador, landscaping, and urban innovation resources are deployed effectively to serve Downtown residents, workers, and visitors. Prior to this role he was a Project Manager working for the City of Detroit in blight remediation efforts. Nick has a master’s degree in urban planning and public policy from the University of Illinois – Chicago.

Nancy brings a wealth of nonprofit experience to DDP and manages grants, major gifts, individual giving, and legacy giving to support Downtown Detroit Partnership’s fundraising goals. Her role includes securing major funding sources, maintaining foundation relationships, and overseeing donor stewardship efforts. Nancy is a native Detroiter and a proud alumna of Wayne State University. She is an active volunteer and currently serves on several local boards.

A native Detroiter, Cliff attended Michigan State University but returned to Detroit to become a police officer. He pivoted again in 2003 to join the Detroit Event Team L.L.C. as an operations manager. In 2015, he joined the DDP in 2015 as operations field manager. Cliff says, “It is an honor to work for a company that has assisted with transforming the Downtown into a vibrate, diverse, and inclusive area.”

Krissy oversees accounting practices such as general cost accounting, preparing and maintaining financial records to track the organization’s assets, liabilities, profit and loss, tax liabilities, and other related financial activities. She has been working with the DDP since 2016.

Jessica’s 15 years of accounting experience with a focus on construction accounting and tracking support her work at the DDP. In addition to her work with DDP, she is a property accountant for Community Capital Consulting, LLC. Jessica is an alumnus of Jackson Community College, and she enjoys working to help connect people, places, and parks.

Josh works closely with the City of Detroit, Downtown developers, and business owners to track building development, develop growth metrics, manage special projects, and calculate special assessments. Josh received a master’s degree in Urban Planning from the University of Michigan and has worked in the public sector, private sector consulting, and nonprofit data worlds.

Whitney supports the DDP team by providing financial and operational support across a range of initiatives, working with both internal teams and external partners. With over seven years of experience in finance, Whitney has held roles supporting organizations from early-stage startups to large corporations, bringing a well-rounded and adaptable approach to financial management. A born and raised Detroiter, Whitney is proud to contribute to an organization that invests in the growth and vitality of the city. Whitney earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on financial support from Liberty University and is excited to be part of the DDP team and its mission to drive impactful development in Downtown Detroit.

Rory supports the Senior Events Manager with event planning, promotions, and execution of all DDP events, including DDP signature events, Downtown Detroit BIZ events, Parks and Public Spaces events, and park rentals. Rory began her time with DDP in 2022 as a Small Business and Events Intern before transitioning to her current, full-time role as Event Coordinator in 2024. Rory holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Supervisory Management from Western Connecticut State University.

Elisa role supports the DDP team, working closely with the Parks and Public Spaces team. She previously worked in Grand Rapids as an accountant for a family office. Over the past few years, she has developed a passion for local art and music, and she is glad to be part of an organization that furthers development within the city. Elisa attended Grand Valley State University for her undergraduate degree.

Bekah plays a key role in supporting DDP’s CFO, managing scheduling, day-to-day operations, and correspondence with a high level of organization and professionalism. She works closely across multiple teams, including Accounting and Finance, Urban Innovation, and Small Business, helping to ensure seamless coordination and efficiency across the organization. A skilled administrative professional and graduate of Western Michigan University, Bekah brings a thoughtful and detail-oriented approach to her work and takes great pride in advancing DDP’s mission and values through her contributions.

As a key member of the Parks and Public Spaces team, Bri helps bring 1,200+ annual events to life across DDP’s 18 Parks and Public Spaces. She works closely with the DDP team and community partners to coordinate diverse, free programming that attracts millions of visitors to Downtown Detroit every year.

Bri previously worked for the Detroit Grand Prix as an Event Services Coordinator, where she assisted the Event Director and Volunteer Services Manager with the operation and administration of their 1,500-member volunteer organization with the Detroit Grand Prix Association (DGPA). Additionally, Bri served as the Beverage & Special Projects Manager at Jonathan Witz & Associates in Royal Oak for four years.

Chelsea is dedicated to delivering exceptional service to partners, ensuring they have a rewarding experience with DDP. With over eight years of experience in sponsorship sales, activations, event and vendor management, she has successfully organized a diverse range of events and innovative sponsor engagements.

Escarleth is a data-driven urban planner with a background in architecture, visual communication, and urban research. In her role, she leverages her expertise in data analysis and tools like ArcGIS to drive strategic decision-making and enhance marketing initiatives. With experience managing urban planning projects related to housing, mobility, and land use, Escarleth is committed to fostering inclusive, equitable cities through community engagement and innovative solutions. She holds a Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning from Michigan State University.

Melissa is responsible for managing the daily facilities, amenities, maintenance, and operational activity of Downtown’s 18 Parks and Public Spaces. Having more than five years of leadership experience, she also brings operational skills to her role. Melissa is OSHA certified with certificates in HVAC and electricity. She inspires team members and creates a culture of fun, care, and accountability.

Anjana leads the marketing and communications efforts for the Downtown Detroit Business Improvement Zone, including the BIZ Ambassadors. Additionally, Anjana supports enterprise-wide efforts and DDP initiatives, including Small Business, Data, Safety, Urban Innovation, Parks, and DDP-managed Business Improvement Zones. She has a passion for Detroit, storytelling, and people. Her experience as an Emmy Award-winning television producer sharpened her attention to detail and excellence through strategic decision-making. Anjana has been on the DDP team since October 2017.

Mo provides support to DDP’s executive office handling the day-to-day management of its workspaces and administrative functions. She works closely with leadership, crafting a warm and engaging environment for team members and guests while assisting with business functions such as human resources and database management. Mo is a Detroit native and alumna of Michigan State University with a passion for community engagement and the arts. Prior to joining the DDP she worked in Detroit’s Central Business District for about 13 years. First with Rocket Companies managing the Rocket Tours program while supporting onboarding and orientation, then as an Executive Assistant/ Office Manager at Gensler. After so many years spent in the heart of the city, she is excited to continue playing a role in cultivating Detroit’s legacy.

Sarah oversees and manages all DDP, BIZ, and Parks and Public Spaces events including DDP’s signature events, BIZ Connects, and special Parks and Public Spaces programming.