LISA BRANDES

I started A+ Events in 1994 and have been enjoying every minute of the company's progress since. I love the "magic" of mixing a variety of ideas to create unique experiences for our clients. I get excited about organizational growth and helping groups shape their messages. And, I'm especially pleased that we get to do this every day for organizations that are making a positive difference in the world. Our staff are absolutely the best people to work with and I'm continually astonished by their creativity and enthusiasm. Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, photography, reading, cooking and hiking.

RICH BRANDES

I watched Lisa create A+ Events many years ago, and I am delighted to now be part of this growing company. I started my career in the U.S. Coast Guard, where I served on ships on both coasts and worked closely with the maritime industry. My second career was in the petroleum industry were I managed facilities, and later, an environmental program. I enjoy working in small business, and it is a pleasure meeting and assisting people in the education industry. I enjoy sailing, participating in Rotary and travel.

MICHELLE NOE

As Creative Director, I produce the branding for each event we serve, which translates into web-layout, print-work, logos, graphics and signs. I also provide information design: structuring the visual aspects of our content so that it is easily understood and efficiently organized. I collaborate with other staff members developing concepts and design for any project that calls for it. I hold a BA in Design/Media Arts from UCLA and have over five years of experience as a freelance designer. I am fascinated with almost everything and when I am not reading design and typography books, I'm cooking, digging in the dirt and enjoying the company of my friends.

ALEX BRANDES

As Web Services Director I manage the company's web presence and develop new sites and web applications. I enjoy solving difficult application archictectural problems, and creating effective, useable programs. I have a BA in Environmental Studies and Anthropology from UC Santa Cruz and several years experience working in web development. Outside of work I love traveling, hiking, and working on my own web projects.

NATALIE SERRANO

I am excited to be a part of the talented team of creative individuals that is A+ Events. I grew up on the beautiful Mendocino Coast and have recently returned. I have a degree in History of Art and Visual Culture from UC Santa Cruz where I worked for many years in the administrative field. As an executive assistant here at A+ Events I take pride in providing excellent support to our clients and team members. In addition to my career interests, I also love spending time outdoors, with family, and with friends.

MONICA KEMPER

I've been a member of the A+ Events team since 2009. As Communications Director, I coordinate the overall communications strategy for the company. This includes writing and editing for the website and marketing, as well as ensuring the team provides exceptional customer service. I have a BA in Environmental Studies and have worked in both the environmental and hospitality industries. In 2011, I took a year off from A+ Events to spend at home with my new baby. I'm pleased to have returned to A+ Events and enjoy the challenge of being a working mom. Outside of work I love spending time with my family, hiking with my dog, traveling, and exploring the beautiful coast I call home.

HANNAH MCFARLAND

As Administrative Coordinator, I provide customer service and tie up loose ends- from shipping supplies to assisting with finances. I have a BA in English, and outside of work I enjoy travel, poetry, photography, volunteering with the animal shelter and spending time with friends and family.

Collin Kelley

My job as Vendor Relations Manager is to assist in making sure our conferences and events run smoothly, and that our exhibiting partners remain happy. I have a degree in Business Management from San Francisco State University, and a background in event management. I am delighted to have recently moved to the beautiful Mendocino coast, and to work with such a passionate and dedicated team here at A + Events.

NICK BRANDES

As Media Coordinator I work with the A+Events team to produce high quality web and video content. Before moving to Mendocino I attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, and then spent 5 years as audio engineer at The Brewery Recording Studio in Brooklyn, New York.

BOB HARMON

In June of 2013, I completed 40 years in public education--all in Washington State. A graduate of Pacific Lutheran University, I was first a math and art teacher, then a high school principal and central office administrator in Forks, WA--yes, of Twilight fame! I worked there for 26 years, spending the bulk of my time in federal programs, most notably, Title I. In 1999, I was hired to be the State Title I Director and soon was added to the State Superintendent's Cabinet as an Assistant Superintendent for Special Programs and Federal Accountability. During the 14 years I was at the State Office, I was an active member of NASTID--serving in every position on the Board (except secretary) and twice as President. I am privileged and delighted to now be a part of the great team at A+ Events and still involved with Title I. I don't think it gets any better!

Gina Hurst-Roach

I am proud to be a new addition to the A+ Events team. As Administrative Coordinator, I provide customer service and tie up loose ends. I have a Bachelor's degree in History from The University of California at Santa Cruz, where I worked in the administrative field. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, being outdoors, and traveling.