Ryan joined the staff of the City Center in 2011 as the Operations Manager before taking over as Executive Director in 2017. Before moving to Saratoga Springs he spent twelve years in New York City working as a Broadway and off-Broadway Production Manager as the Director of the Times Center. Over his career, Ryan has emphasized developing less seasoned staff members and providing opportunities for advancement. He understands the important economic development role that City Center plays in Saratoga Springs and looks forward to continuing its tradition of excellence.   When not at work Ryan enjoys spending time with his wife Colleen and their young daughters and traveling as a family.

Favorite Quote: “All the adversity I’ve had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles have strengthened me… You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.” – Walt Disney

An experienced hospitality industry professional, Shelby has been part of the City Center team since 2009. Shelby’s favorite movie, Rocky inspires how he approaches his personal and work life- believe in yourself and never give up. Shelby’s persistence and work ethic resulted in a promotion to City Center Operations Manager in 2017. Shelby takes the lead to inspire and guide a team of 10 employees that are responsible to supervise, set-up and maintain the City Center. When not ensuring an impeccable experience for our guests Shelby enjoys traveling, fishing and having fun with his family.

Favorite Quote: “Don’t count the days, Make the days count” – Muhammad Ali

Donna joined the Saratoga City Center staff as accounting manager in 2004 and was named Finance Officer in 2007. Prior to her career with the City Center, Donna worked for the NY Mets and CitiBank. When not keeping the City Center’s finances in order Donna likes to travel, take care of her pets and spend time with family.

Favorite Quote: “Stay positive and happy, work hard and don’t give up hope. Be open to criticism and keep learning; surround yourself with happy, warm and genuine people” – Tena Desae

Derek joined the City Center in 2023 after running the call center for the Siena College Research Institute, overseeing 200 employees.  They have embraced their many responsibilities, including Human Resources, Sales Department support, and parking structure details, and are the head of our corporate morale!  When Derek is not brightening our day, they enjoy reading & writing, currently working on a collection of essays called “I am in the wrong shoes for this”, as well as twirling to a good record, attending any live performance, and spending time in nature with their husband.

Favorite Quote:  “No matter who you are, no matter what you did, no matter where you came from, you can always change, become a better version of yourself.” – Madonna

An over 30 year industry Veteran, Susan began her career at the Desmond Hotel. During her 8 years there she developed a passion for all aspects of the hospitality industry.   Susan spent over 20 years working for Mazzone Hospitality, starting as off-premise catering sales manager and lastly holding the position of Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Susan holds an associate degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology, a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management from Nyack College and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Marist College. Susan is responsible for leading the City Center sales efforts including prospecting for new business and maintaining long-standing relationships. In addition, she is a liaison between the Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau and our Saratoga partner hotels working to encourage Saratoga as a destination for conventions and events. When not working to make a client’s convention or event come to fruition Susan enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, son, daughter-in-law and grand daughter.

Favorite Quote: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Lauren was literally born to be in the event industry! As a little girl Lauren worked with her father managing the Saratoga County Fair. This experience has helped shape Lauren’s passion for event planning. She approaches each day with the goal of making her client’s events come to a successful reality. Lauren plans convention and corporate events but has a special penchant for weddings and social events. In addition to providing sales reporting for the City Center Authority she is a Saratoga Chamber Ambassador- receiving the Ambassador of the year award in 2016. When Lauren is not making dreams come true she is a voracious reader and enjoys watching sports, cooking and spending time with family and friends.

Favorite Quote: “Books let us into their souls and lay open to us the secrets of our own.” – William Hazlitt

After earning a degree in Travel & Tourism Rebecca decided to make Saratoga her home. In 2004, once her 3 beautiful children were in school, she joined the City Center team. Rebecca was born to be an event planner; her combination of impeccable organizational skills and a desire to connect with people endear her to clients immediately. In addition to corporate, convention and social event organizing Rebecca has a special skill in assisting gate shows with their planning. A little known fact is that Rebecca is accomplished at playing the tambourine. When she is not at the City Center or practicing her tambourine, to be ready to go on the road with Twiddle, she enjoys spending time with her family & friends, outdoor activities, and going to concerts.

Favorite Quote: “Music gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything” – Plato

When you enter the City Center lobby, Terri will be the first smiling face to greet you!  Terri comes to us from previously working for the Village of Ballston Spa running the front office for the mayor.  Her experience and friendly disposition are a perfect fit as our Welcome Center associate, who is responsible for answering our phones, providing sales department support, providing finance department support, and distributing toys to our young guests who visit from her toy box in her office!  When Terri has free time, you’ll find her spending time with her family, cheering on her granddaughters at their events, and finding the best bargains at garage sales and thrift shops!

Favorite Quote: “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” – Maya Angelo

In 2022 we were lucky enough to have Matt join our team with 22 years of experience in the special event business!  His expertise in supervising set-ups allows him to guide our staff, and work smoothly with our decorating, catering, and audio-visual partners to make sure every event is successful!  Matt’s dynamic attitude may have begun at the age of 5 when he started racing dirt bikes!  He enjoys spending time with friends & family and attending concerts and sporting events.

Favorite Quote: “You gotta keep on keepin on.  Life’s a garden, dig it.  You make it work for you!” – Joe Dirt