Faces of Peachtree Corners
Faces of Peachtree Corners 2024
This year’s Faces of Peachtree Corners list includes students, entrepreneurs, community volunteers, leaders and everyday people who we think make our city a better place.
Through hard work, kindness and a commitment to their neighbors and the community at large, each one of them is a shining example of the heart and community-minded spirit that makes Peachtree Corners an incredible place to live and work.
Analy Navarro — Founder of BA HERO
When Analy Navarro‘s oldest daughter, Julia, was diagnosed with an extremely rare liver disease called biliary atresia (BA) at 4 months old, she did the most remarkable thing a human can do; she saved Julia’s life.
Immediately following the diagnosis, the family was added to the pediatric organ waiting list in hopes of finding a donor.
“We never received ‘the call’ that patients dream about,” said Navarro, “but we had a backup plan. At only 7 months old, Julia received her life-saving liver transplant from me, her living donor.”
By giving a portion of her own liver in a successful transplant procedure, Navarro’s daughter is now thriving — enjoying time with her family and friends, jumping around at the Town Green playground with her younger sister, Elena, and dancing, baking and making art at their Peachtree Corners home.
Seeing the need to save more lives, Navarro founded the non-profit organization, BA HERO, with the goal of offering hope, education and research funds that would benefit others facing biliary atresia.
Today, BA HERO hosts fundraising events in the community and works with neonatal nephrologists at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to identify and fund critical studies in an effort to better understand how and why biliary atresia presents in newborns.
“Having a child born with a rare disease … was life changing and then becoming part of the transplant community was also a transformative experience,” Navarro shared. “I like to think that it’s situations like this that bring the best out in us by giving us a unique perspective that we can use for the good of others.”
The family shares their story to help raise awareness about biliary atresia and organ donation but, most importantly, to inspire hope. They want other families in the rare disease community to know that even though it’s terrifying to hear those words, “there is hope and there are many of us out here.”
“Analy is a beautiful, kind and generous soul who embodies the vibrant spirit of Peachtree Corners,” said James Taylor, one of the people who nominated Navarro for this list. “She IS the change we all want to see in this world.”
While those that know her are quick to share that Navarro is an inspiration, she has an inspiration of her own. “Every day, I’m inspired by Julia, her journey and her love for others. She has touched so many lives and I hope that [people reading this profile] will be [among] them and decide to become organ donors in honor of her.”
Bridget Salter — Student at Greater Atlanta Christian School
Bridget Salter, Peachtree Corners resident and senior at Greater Atlanta Christian School, has built a high school career characterized by leadership, hard work and genuine enthusiasm.
A committed athlete, she was selected by her coaches for the IDEALS Leadership Training Program, representing GAC among student-athletes across Gwinnett County. This role not only enhanced her leadership and communication skills but also showed her the importance of serving and supporting others.
“I’m glad I’ve cheered other Spartans on as they’ve enjoyed their top moments,” she reflected. “I’ve learned to not only push myself but to celebrate my friends’ wins too.”
As a student with dyslexia and dysgraphia, Bridget has learned to overcome obstacles that other students may not have faced. But, rather than viewing her challenges as hindrances, she dedicated herself to her studies, developing a detailed calendar and weekly planning routine to stay on top of both schoolwork and extracurricular activities.
Her commitment to seizing every opportunity is evident in her involvement across GAC and within her community. She has demonstrated this by attending missions trips, joining various sports teams, showing incredible school spirit and holding ministry leadership positions.
As a senior, Bridget embraces her role in GAC’s community, using her leadership abilities to uplift those around her, especially younger students.
On the field, she co-captains both GAC’s varsity lacrosse team and the school’s new varsity flag football team, where she has been pivotal in helping get the sport up and running. Off the field, she promotes school spirit through GAC’s Red Zone spirit organization and connects with younger students through the Young Life ministry.
“I really love being part of Young Life Club,” she said, “connecting with the younger students at my school and creating relationships with them.”
As she prepares to close this chapter of high school, it’s clear that Bridget will carry her enthusiasm, leadership abilities, strong work ethic and more out into the world and onto all that is in front of her.
Chrissy Strohmeyer and Gabrielle Mills — Co-founders of Sourced.
Mother and daughter team, Chrissy Strohmeyer and Gabrielle Mills, are the co-founders of the Peachtree Corners-based small business, Sourced. The duo launched the company in 2016, offering fractional, back-office services such as marketing, HR, talent acquisition, accounting and administrative support to the Peachtree Corners community as well as to companies across the country.
“We wanted to help business owners have a better life, with more balance … and have a team,” said Mills, the company’s president.
Though originally unsure of the exact form their business would take, they knew they wanted to keep the company in Gwinnett, and Peachtree Corners, particularly, offered a centralized proximity to Atlanta and surrounding cities.
They also knew they wanted to have a positive impact and give back to the community. So, from the beginning, they’ve been committed to dedicating time and money to various charities and donating 10% of the business’ profits every quarter.
Sourced. team members come together each year to nominate charities close to their hearts, and from those nominations, the leadership team selects up to three to support. In 2024, Sourced. supported two worthy causes, including one local to Gwinnett County — The Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries. In addition to the two organizations, Sourced. also provides in-kind services to a local non-profit.
That philanthropic spirit extends beyond professional endeavors. Strohmeyer, a former Gwinnett County foster parent of 11 years and the CEO of Sourced., has adopted three children and actively serves on boards supporting adoptive and foster families.
Mills, a new mother to two babies, uses her public speaking platform to inspire other women and mothers in business. She is involved in several local Chambers of Commerce, including the Gwinnett Chamber, and participates in various events each year. She has been invited to speak at local events on multiple occasions for companies who are looking for guidance on growth, outsourcing and scaling their business.
Mills and her husband, Derick, bought her first home and moved to Peachtree Corners in 2018. They were drawn to the emerging community, especially with the expansion of The Forum, and the community of young families in the city. The proximity to the business — already located in Peachtree Corners — was a bonus, as well.
Since starting their lives here, the Mills have welcomed two children to the world and enjoy many of the local shops and amenities around the city, including the Town Center playground, which is a favorite.
While Strohmeyer doesn’t currently reside in Peachtree Corners, she does own real estate here that she rents out to one of her other daughters.
“I really love Peachtree Corners,” Mills shared. “I would love to continue to raise my family here and stay as long as possible … Even my friends are starting to see just how awesome [the city] is and want to move here, which would be amazing.”
“I’d love to live in Peachtree Corners as well, although [it’s] not currently possible,” said Strohmeyer. “But I do love to support local businesses personally and professionally when I can. I love seeing the economic growth that is happening here. It’s just a great place to be.”
David Apetrei — Graduate of Norcross High School, Currently at West Point
David Apetrei, the eldest son of Stefan and Simona Apetrei of Peachtree Corners, grew up here with his family. He’s a former student of Norcross High School, where he graduated with honors and an International Baccalaureate Diploma in 2023.
After graduation, Apetrei entered the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York — one of only ten Gwinnett students to accept an appointment to one of the nation’s military service academies that year.
During high school, Apetrei was a member of the JROTC program, where he served as the Battalion Command Sergeant Major. A strong athlete, he was also on Norcross High School’s varsity wrestling team. And, he was actively involved in Scouting for years, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout prior to graduation.
In addition to academics, JROTC, Scouting and sports, Apetrei has also always been committed to giving back to the Peachtree Corners community. Much of his ongoing service included volunteering at local Veterans Day events and assisting older veterans. But he also helped make and deliver sandwiches to homeless shelters and volunteered regularly to clean and help out at his church whenever he was needed.
His strong work ethic, friendly outgoing personality and drive to have a positive impact on his community was — and is — an inspiration to everyone who knows him.
Today, Apetrei is a sophomore at West Point. When he graduates in 2026, he will be commissioned as a lieutenant and will serve for at least five years in the U.S. Army.
Dr. Clinton Bothwell and Dr. Janet Bentley-Ewers — Chief of Staff and Director of Creative Arts at The Father’s House Church
Dr. Clinton Bothwell and Dr. Janet Bentley-Ewers are community advocates not only for The Father’s House Church (where he serves as chief of staff and she as director of creative arts), but also for all of the Peachtree Corners community.
They regularly seek to foster partnerships, alliances and relationships, both professionally and personally, that assist those who live in and around the area.
Though they are residents of the nearby communities of Johns Creek and Duluth, the two have worked together at The Fathers House and within the city of Peachtree Corners for six years.
The Peachtree Corners Fall Festival, the church’s Community Resources Back to School event and its annual Harvest Festival are just three of the special programs they are actively involved with.
“As leaders at The Father’s House, we are deeply connected to this wonderful community,” said Dr. Bentley-Ewers. “We coordinated an event [in PTC] over the summer, bringing together other neighborhood nonprofits and resources to support underserved populations in the area. And we coordinate the annual TFH HarvestFest in October as a fun, family-outreach opportunity. Last year’s turnout was over 500 and we anticipate more of the same for next year.”
In addition to their work and outreach through the church, Dr. Bothwell and Dr. Bentley-Ewers are both active members of the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce — another way they can connect and serve the community.
As members of SWGC, they’ve become familiar with local officials as well as the issues that concern residents of Peachtree Corners and surrounding areas.
“The Father’s House Church has been part of Peachtree Corners for over twelve years,” said Dr. Bentley-Ewers. “About five years ago, we decided to deepen our engagement with the local community and saw the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber as an excellent platform to connect with other business leaders, local officials and non-profits.”
During a recent chamber non-profit meeting, they met Captain Mesa of the City Marshal’s Office. Dr. Bentley-Ewers shared that she and Dr. Bothwell had been discussing ways to expand their community outreach, and Captain Mesa’s vision to introduce the new office to the community aligned perfectly with their mission.
They collaborated with Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries and other partners, including Walgreens and the American Red Cross, to host a successful event with over 250 attendees. With such a successful start, they now plan to make it an annual event and expand its reach to include even more community partners.
As they look to the future, Dr. Bentley-Ewers, Dr. Bothwell and other members of the church’s leadership team hope to continue to be a resource for servicing people within the community with food, supplies and most importantly, prayer.
“Peachtree Corners is strategically located and offers a diverse community, an open door for entertainment, worship and community building,” said Dr. Bentley-Ewers. “This aligns perfectly with the vision of The Father’s House to be a spiritual beacon and a resource for the community.”
Elizabeth Kay Pinder — Real Estate Agent
Elizabeth Pinder is an Atlanta native who has lived in Peachtree Corners with her family for 27 years. After graduating from UNC Greensboro with a BA in English, she had a successful five-year career in the publishing industry before making the decision to homeschool her sons. Their education became her focus for 26 years as her husband, Howard, worked as an electrical engineer.
As her boys were growing up, Pinder worked with the local YMCA to create a homeschool P.E. class and recruited other area homeschoolers to participate; created a year-long tech study course for her youngest that included books, films, physical science kits and online exploration (he’s now a student at GA Tech, getting a degree in computer engineering); and handled the daily responsibilities that go into homeschooling three growing boys through to graduation.
When her youngest began preparing to head to college, Pinder was ready for her next chapter and knew she wanted a meaningful way to spend her time.
“I decided to pursue my real estate license,” she said,” because I wanted to be out and about in our city, interacting with a variety of people, and I’d always had an interest in the real estate industry in Atlanta.”
So, she signed up for an online pre-license class in 2020 and took her final real estate exam in January 2021.
“I was as surprised as anyone that I stepped into a new career at 54,” Pinder shared. “I thought I would have a rough time adjusting to being back in the workforce after the 26 years I spent homeschooling my sons. But the opposite turned out to be true.”
In fact, she said that skills she developed while leading her children through their education — negotiation, creativity, research, problem-solving and positivity — have been the ones she relies on daily as a real estate professional.
Today, she’s an award-winning agent, having been a member of Harry Norman’s elite Success Circle for the last 3 years and in the top 10 producers of her Atlanta Perimeter office in 2023. She also serves on the Harry Norman, REALTORS® Impact Council.
In addition to her new-found career, Pinder volunteers as president of her neighborhood’s HOA, using her strong work ethic and positive attitude to help organize community events throughout the year that provide opportunities for neighbors to enrich friendships and strengthen connections.
Ethan James — Student at Greater Atlanta Christian School
Ethan James, Peachtree Corners resident and a junior at Greater Atlanta Christian School, stands out for his achievements, resilience and leadership. A dedicated athlete, Ethan has qualified multiple times for the Southeastern Sectionals Swim Championships and has represented both his club and high school teams at the state level in swimming.
As a valuable member of the GAC football team, he’s also playing a crucial role in preparing the Spartans for a playoff run. Academically, even with the focus and time commitment required to compete in multiple sports, Ethan is a consistent honor roll student and an active Beta Club member.
To give back to his community and share what he’s learned both in the water and on the field, Ethan enjoys mentoring younger athletes — teaching swim lessons at GAC’s summer camp and refereeing youth flag football this fall.
“Working with younger athletes is incredibly rewarding,” he shared, as he enjoys helping them grow, fostering excitement for sports and modeling good sportsmanship.
In early 2024, Ethan faced a major setback when a hip flexor strain led to a three-month recovery period.
“It was tough to be out, but I focused on small steps,” he reflected, and was grateful for the support of GAC’s athletic trainers, strength coaches and team coaches.
This experience reinforced his commitment to his goals: potentially competing in collegiate sports and studying business.
Ethan credits GAC for broadening his perspective through leadership programs like Young Life and impactful experiences on the football team, particularly Coach Hardy’s “Spartan For Life” sessions.
“These experiences have shaped me for life,” he said.
With a solid foundation in academics, sports and Christian leadership, Ethan is prepared to carry forward the values he’s learned from his school — and from giving back to the community — as he pursues his future goals.
Isiah and LaShandia Hill — Teachers at Wesleyan School
Isiah and LaShandia Hill are not only happily married, they also work together, teaching and serving as advisors at Wesleyan School.
The couple make their home in Dacula, but don’t mind the 40-minute commute to be part of the Wesleyan — and Peachtree Corners — community.
Isiah has worked at Wesleyan for eight years as an honors chemistry teacher, sprints coach for the varsity track team, assistant dean of student life, and the high school diversity coordinator.
He was Wesleyan’s Star Teacher in 2022, served on the Professional Standards Commission for the State of Georgia under Governor Nathan Deal and was part of the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) Emerging Leader Institute in 2023.
“In every role he undertakes — whether as a coach, teacher, administrator or colleague — Isiah exemplifies dedication and excellence,” said Joseph Koch, Wesleyan’s high school principal. “His unwavering commitment to nurturing both the academic and spiritual growth of students has profoundly shaped our community.”
LaShandia joined the Wesleyan faculty six years ago and teaches middle school STEM, as well as robotics and computer science. She is also the head sponsor for the middle school’s Technology Students Association (TSA) and the VEX robotics teams.
Like her husband, she is an award-winning (and beloved) instructor and mentor at the school. She was named Middle School TSA Georgia Advisor of the Year in 2023 and 2024 and won the Tommy Pitchford Inspirational Teacher of the Year award this year.
“LaShandia is relentless in her pursuit of excellence and in challenging her students at a high level,” said Joseph Antonio, Wesleyan’s middle school principal. “She has spent countless hours during her planning periods and even over school breaks to make sure she has done everything in her power to build a great STEM program at Wesleyan.”
During her time at the school, she has helped grow the program to a place where their middle school STEM classes are full and has led the after-school TSA team to multiple top 10 finishes on a national level.
“She’s an exceptional teacher and an even more exceptional person who cares about promoting the interests of others way above herself,” Antonio added.
Both LaShandia and Isiah were awarded the distinction of being Master Teachers in 2021 and they continue to participate in the TIED Together program at Wesleyan’s lower school where they spend time reading and sharing with students about being positive members of the community.
Isiah shared that he enjoys using his background in research science to elevate his teaching and expose students to the various fields of chemistry and how chemistry impacts every aspect of their daily lives.
LaShandia has said that she “enjoys exposing students to opportunities in STEM through engaging activities and experiences to encourage them to be future leaders and innovators in STEM-related fields.”
The Hills’ positive impact resonates throughout the school, making it a place of learning, faith and mutual respect, all of which fulfill the Wesleyan mission to be a Christian school of academic excellence, challenging and nurturing the mind, body and spirit.
Jarell Oshodi — Deputy Chief Privacy Officer at CDC
Peachtree Corners resident and cybersecurity expert, Jarell Oshodi, embodies the innovative and community-focused spirit that PTC represents — in both her professional and personal life.
As deputy chief privacy officer at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, she plays a critical role in protecting the privacy of millions.
Her work there — ensuring the security of personal information — aligns perfectly with Peachtree Corners’ vision as a tech-forward and privacy-conscious ‘smart city.’
Oshodi is also a best-selling author, having co-written “Securing Our Future: Embracing the Brilliance and Resilience of Black Women in Cybersecurity.” And she has plans to write more in the future. She’s particularly interested in writing and publishing books that will help kids understand cyber awareness and online safety best practices.
A mother of two boys and supportive wife to her husband, Akinwande (who was recognized on our 2022 Faces of Peachtree Corners list), Oshodi is dedicated to her family and the community and demonstrates that in a variety of important ways.
She serves as a mentor on the board of the Black Girls in Cyber (BGiC) Foundation, where she helps women advance their careers in cybersecurity, an industry where representation is crucial. Her efforts through the foundation have helped numerous women break barriers and thrive in a male-dominated field, advancing diversity in tech.
Oshodi also partners with schools and youth organizations, such as Jack and Jill of America, Sandtown Middle School and the Cobb County Bar Association, to teach cyber safety and awareness to children.
As residents of Peachtree Corners for the last four-and-a-half years, Oshodi and her family are happy to be part of the city. “I love the sense of community [here],” she shared, “[as well as] the parks and outdoor areas for my kids and the proximity to Atlanta.”
Jennifer Bonacci — Assistant Finance Director, City of Peachtree Corners
Originally from Stuart, Florida, Jennifer Bonacci moved to Atlanta in 1991 to attend Oglethorpe University. After graduation, she went to work as an accountant at Georgia Pacific and also worked as a part-time youth minister at Mary Our Queen Catholic Church, where she met her husband, Rich.
The couple began looking for a home that allowed her to commute to her job downtown while Rich commuted to his job in the Perimeter area. Peachtree Corners was the perfect solution.
“My husband grew up in Peachtree Station and graduated from Norcross High School,” Bonacci said, “so he was familiar with the area and the neighborhoods. We bought our house in Peachtree Station in January 2001.”
Over the next 25 years, Bonacci and her husband settled into their home and raised four children. Twins Victoria and Anthony graduated from Norcross High School in 2021. Christina graduated from NHS last year. And youngest, Alyssa, is currently a freshman there.
“As our family grew, the community grew,” said Bonacci. “Our kids spent hours riding their bikes to their friends’ houses and to the neighborhood pool. They played football in the cul-de-sac and tennis at the swim tennis club. Peachtree Corners was and continues to be a wonderful place to raise a family.”
Bonacci started working at the City of Peachtree Corners almost a year ago and has already made a big impression.
“Jennifer is one of those people … who doesn’t seek attention but is toiling behind the scenes to make Peachtree Corners a better place,” said City Councilman Alex Wright.
He shared that Bonacci was the one who introduced the idea of building the Peachtree Corners playground at Town Center. She is also part of the organizing committee that plans and executes the Peachtree Corners Decathlon, and volunteers with the Peachtree Corners Veterans Association as treasurer and helping with events.
Bonacci has also long been active in the community in other ways: as manager of the Peachtree Station swim team; Girl Scout troop leader; fitness instructor at the Fowler YMCA; and as co-director for the PTC Memorial Day Challenge.
“As a resident, I’m concerned with all the happenings within and around the city. As an employee, I enjoy helping to make a difference in the decisions … [that] guide the city,” Bonacci said. “I enjoy watching how the community has grown and getting to know the younger families in the area. We look out for each other, share advice on raising families and learn from one another how to appreciate our differences as well as our similarities.”
Jennifer Julius — Teacher at Cornerstone Christian Academy
Jennifer Julius has lived in and taught in Peachtree Corners for over 30 years, having relocated to the city from Maryland in 1991. She shared that she and her husband originally chose this area because her parents were here, and they wanted to live near them. But they’ve stayed for three decades because they love the community.
Julius was first hired at Simpson Elementary in 1993 where she taught several different grade levels, was a gifted teacher and served as technology coordinator. She also helped start the school’s student council in its first year and then, in the third year, started a student-run school supply store.
She is currently in her eighth year at Cornerstone Christian Academy, teaching middle school science classes as well as a woodshop elective. She came to Cornerstone in 2017 as a 5th grade integrated science tand 6th grade earth science teacher as well as teaching a technology elective.
“I love the supportive caring environment that we have here [at Cornerstone],” she said. “You are part of a team of parents and teachers who value developing their children’s faith and academics and finding ways to enable students to serve others in and around the community.”
In addition to her work, Julius is actively involved in her church, Christ the King Lutheran, where she volunteers in the sound booth, creates playlists for their traditional and contemporary services and assists with grounds clean up and beautification projects, often inviting her students to get involved as well.
Of her life here in Peachtree Corners, she said that she loves that “when I go anywhere, I will run into current and former students and their parents as well as friends” and that Town Center and The Forum have made the city a fun community to live and work in.
“My husband and I enjoy going to the festivals, car shows and visiting the Town Center area for tasty food. We enjoy early morning walks to Manhattan Bagel for breakfast. I have done Light Up the Corners a few times. And one of our favorite leisure activities is kayaking down the Chattahoochee from the park on 141 to a take-out that’s nestled in the back of our neighborhood.”
“When we first moved here there was only a BP Gas Station on the corner of Medlock Bridge Road and 141,” she continued, “the rest was mostly farmland or forest. I like that I don’t have to go far now to do things or help others. The longer I live here the more places I find that need volunteers to help those in need, and I want to help.”
Jill Tew — Author
Jill Tew was born and raised just minutes from Peachtree Corners in the Dunwoody/Sandy Springs area. After growing up there, she went on to graduate from an Ivy League school and enjoyed a successful career in business, technology and education. But, in 2020, during the first year of the pandemic, she felt called to do some soul-searching to figure out what a truly fulfilling future would look like for herself and her family.
The answer was a major pivot: Tew and her husband moved from Denver, where they’d been living for nine years, back home to the north Atlanta area to be closer to Jill’s mother. During the house-hunting process, they fell in love with Peachtree Corners immediately, and were lucky to find a home in Amberfield.
At the same time, Tew’s professional interests were also shifting. She’d begun taking her side hobby of writing more seriously over the course of the pandemic, and by the end of 2021, she had her very first book deal with Penguin Random House.
Her debut novel, The Dividing Sky, came out on October 8, 2024 from Joy Revolution, an imprint of Penguin Random House overseen by New York Times Bestselling authors Nicola Yoon and David Yoon.
Since its release, The Dividing Sky has received critical acclaim, earning highly-coveted starred reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly and School Library Journal, who have compared the novel to the works of Octavia Butler. Publishers Weekly also named it one of the best books of 2024.
Tew now has other books in the works. In April 2025, Disney Books will publish her first middle grade novel, Kaya Morgan’s Crowning Achievement, about a Black girl growing up in suburban Atlanta.
Of all of the many tasks associated with being a professional author, Tew shared that visiting schools has by far been her favorite. She’s enjoyed connecting with educators and students alike in the Gwinnett County Public School district, encouraging students to pursue their own creative passions.
“I’m thrilled to live in Peachtree Corners,” she said, “and bring north Atlanta to young readers’ shelves through some of my stories.”
Lindsay Schwartz — Founder and CEO of LSCC
Peachtree Corners resident and business owner, Lindsay Schwartz, is a passionate advocate for the PTC community, building both her life and her new company here.
With a background in creative agencies, she took a full-time director role with local company, Music Matters Productions in 2020. But, after several years there, her boss encouraged her to launch her own agency, doing what she did for them for other companies as well.
In 2023, Lindsay Schwartz Consulting + Creative (affectionately known as LSCC) was born. Since then, the agency has grown from a solo operation to a full-time team of five, working with clients across a variety of industries.
Specializing in high-impact creative solutions, Schwartz’s — and LSCC’s — mission is to help businesses find their voice, build meaningful brands and connect authentically with their audience. And, although her current roster includes businesses from around the world, her connection to the PTC community is strong.
“My husband and I moved to Peachtree Corners in 2019, and I established my business [here] in 2023,” said Schwartz. “Before starting the business, the company I worked for full time was also based in Peachtree Corners. And many of the clients I work with now (including my old place of employment) are based in Peachtree Corners as well.”
Schwartz said she and her husband knew nothing about the area when they purchased their home, but “the property value was unbeatable, and it was the closest suburb to the perimeter.” Since settling in the city, they’ve fallen in love with the area.
“The growth, development and investment in the community has been amazing to watch and be a part of, and we absolutely love the proximity to everything we could need,” she said. “Tech Park, in particular, is a crown jewel and something to really be proud of.”
In addition to growing her business, Schwartz actively participates in community initiatives, engaging with several local organizations and giving back to the place she calls home.
“We have deep connections to the folks here who have been helpful in the transition to full-time entrepreneurship,” she said. “Having the ability to be a small part of this thriving professional ecosystem is wonderful.”
“We are huge advocates for PTC and intend to stay here indefinitely,” she continued. “I hope that one day LSCC will have an even larger economic impact on the area and be a point of pride for the community.”
Madeline Dean Austin — Student at Greater Atlanta Christian School
Peachtree Corners resident, Madeline Austin, a junior at Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC), has made the most of her time both at school and within her community.
As a freshman, she was chosen to act as the student guide for GAC’s virtual tour, putting her theater background to use in a new setting and gaining experience in working with a professional film crew.
That same year, she also stepped into a leadership role at Simpsonwood United Methodist Church as a confirmation student leader (or ‘X-Con’). And her leadership journey continued as she became co-captain of both the National Beta Club and the girls cross country team at GAC. She has now actively participated in each since ninth grade.
A committed athlete, Madeline has faced unexpected hurdles. Diagnosed with RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sports), a condition affecting endurance athletes, she realized that athletic performance is about more than race times. Runners with RED-S lack the necessary energy to improve times no matter how hard they train.
“My success comes not from my times, but from my perseverance and my contributions as a teammate,” she shared, crediting her coaches and teammates with keeping her motivated.
Looking forward, Madeline plans to pursue a future in medicine, inspired by her journey as an athlete, guidance from her school’s sports trainers and GAC’s rigorous academic program.
“I have learned so much about the importance of my health and how to take care of myself thanks to the sports medicine trainers at my school and my primary care doctor,” said Madeline. “In turn, I want to help other athletes reach their goals in a healthy way.”
With support from math teachers like GAC’s Mr. Washington and Mr. Beasley, she has excelled in advanced math courses during high school — fueling her curiosity and determination. Madeline’s overall experiences at GAC, both academically and athletically, have shaped her into a thoughtful, service-oriented leader who is prepared to contribute meaningfully to her community and beyond.
Max Morrison — Owner of Georgia Peach Movers
Though he lives in neighboring Johns Creek, Max Morrison is deeply connected to Peachtree Corners. His mother lives here, his children attend Cornerstone Christian Academy and his company, Georgia Peach Movers is located in the city as well.
“The commute is perfect for him,” said his wife, Tiffany. “When he takes the kids to school, he goes directly to work after. Our whole life basically revolves around Peachtree Corners.”
As founder and owner of the award-winning moving company, Morrison takes pride in the community and in helping others. In fact, it was his strong work ethic and passion for giving back that led him to establish Georgia Peach Movers in 2015. Through hard work and dedication, he transformed his vision into a successful business that not only provides reliable moving services but also prioritizes customer satisfaction.
Under his leadership, the company has grown significantly and garnered multiple awards for exceptional service, including Best of Gwinnett, Best of Peachtree Corners, Best of Johns Creek and Best of Georgia.
Additionally, the company’s — and Morrison’s — reputation has earned them recurring clients, in and around the city, who trust him to handle their moves with care. He was recently awarded a contract with the Atlanta Public School System to handle the relocation of all of their school facilities.
One thing that sets Morrison’s company apart is that he chooses to donate a meal to a food-insecure family after every move. Through Feeding America, he makes a financial donation to help the organization distribute meals through their network of food banks across the country.
This initiative allows Morrison’s clients to be part of something meaningful by simply hiring Georgia Peach Movers for their moving needs, knowing that it will contribute to a larger mission to end hunger.
The idea came about when he started the company. “He wanted to have a purpose,” explained Tiffany.
Beyond the professional accolades, Morrison is deeply committed to being a devoted husband, a loving father and a loyal friend.
One thing that Morrison and Tiffany appreciate about Peachtree Corners is that “it is very family oriented.” They like that the city is home to great parks and green spaces.
“And we love the restaurants at The Forum and Town Center,” they added. “The area’s commitment to innovation and community development make it an exciting and welcoming place.”
Samantha Shelton — Founder and CEO, Furkids
Samantha Shelton founded Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelters in 2002, after finding a hungry cat and three kittens in the front yard of her Atlanta home. Shelton set out to find homes for the cat family on her own, and after successfully placing the cats (adopting one of the kittens herself), she had the idea to continue the work by starting her own rescue organization.
“This was the profound moment that changed my life and the lives of thousands of animals and the people who love them,” Shelton shared on the organization’s website.
Furkids started as a foster home network, but in 2005, after years of success, Shelton opened the largest no-kill cat shelter in Georgia, a mile outside the Peachtree Corners city limits. That was followed a year later by the opening of the organization’s first thrift store in Peachtree Corners, which had started as a fundraising yard sale in Shelton’s back yard.
This store was the first of five retail shops that benefit Furkids’ mission and now bring in a third of the shelter’s annual operating budget. The Peachtree Corners store alone employs seven staff members and utilizes dozens of volunteers, providing the community a place to shop while supporting the organization’s work.
Shelton was nominated for Faces of Peachtree Corners by her daughter, Emily, who shared that her mom is deserving of recognition “because of the many contributions she has made to our Peachtree Corners community and throughout the state of Georgia.”
“She makes our community a better place to live, work and volunteer,” Emily added.
Settling in Peachtree Corners in 2008, when she was pregnant with Emily, Shelton was excited to find a community where she could raise her daughter as a single mom among loving neighbors and friends and where they could thrive as a family.
She’s had a positive impact on the city ever since.
“Every day, she makes sacrifices to save and care for thousands of homeless [dogs and cats] … and to support the people who love and cherish them,” said Emily. “She is happily known as the ‘pet lady’ in our neighborhood and is often called to help lost animals find their way back home.”
In addition to the work with Furkids, Shelton has also volunteered as the secretary of the Peachtree Corners Swim and Racquet Club and served as a community volunteer and cookie mom for six years for the Girl Scouts’ Peachtree Corners Troop #15331.
Dr. Shannon Self-Brown — Distinguished Professor at Georgia State University
A Peachtree Corners resident for over 10 years, Dr. Shannon Self-Brown is a distinguished professor at Georgia State University as well as a research mentor for students at Paul Duke STEM High School.
At GSU, she manages an intensive research program in prevention science that has led to multimillion dollar awards from federal agencies. She has also published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles that contribute significantly to prevention science.
But the work Dr. Self-Brown is most proud of is her engagement within the community.
As a mentor at Paul Duke STEM, she has worked with students completing their AP research course on topics including ‘how child abuse and foster care is associated with delinquent behavior’ and ‘how trauma impacts educational outcomes among youth.’
She first became involved with Paul Duke STEM when her son began attending the school four years ago.
“Early on, I had the opportunity to meet with an incredible teacher at the school, Dr. Bookal, who leads the AP research seminar. She told me that many of her students were interested in conducting psychology projects, but she hadn’t been able to find mentors in that discipline.”
Dr. Self-Brown offered to serve in the role, and since then has supported several students in completing their research projects.
“This work has been one of the most wonderful experiences of my career,” she said. “The students have been highly motivated to learn about psychological and public health research. Their ideas, compassion and commitment fill me with so much hope for this next generation of adults.”
The Self-Brown family settled in Peachtree Corners because they were impressed with the public schools here. They also had a strong friend group in the area that they regularly camped with (the Peachtree Corners Camper Crew), so they were excited to live closer to them. The final factor was that they loved the swim and tennis options in the city.
“Our son was a serious tennis player growing up and Peachtree Corners offered great tennis academy options,” she said.
These days, Dr. Self-Brown has a list of things she loves about the city. “I love the family-friendly community,” she said, “and getting together with friends to watch college football. I enjoy the outdoor activities, including playing pickleball, hiking at Simpsonwood and kayaking on the Chattahoochee. And I appreciate the variety of restaurants and the great shopping at The Forum.”
Sue Storck — General Manager of The Forum
Sue Storck has served as general manager of The Forum since 2019, leading the property through ownership changes and a major redevelopment. During this time, she has become deeply ingrained in the Peachtree Corners community and constantly looks for ways to be involved.
“When I started at The Forum, I immediately fell in love with the property and city,” Storck shared. “I met early on with the city manager and staff to begin building relationships. By getting to know the players who were shaping the city, I was able to understand their vision for growth and how The Forum plays a role in the city’s overall identity. This really helped create a foundation for the strong bond that’s been formed between our teams.”
Storck quickly realized that the elected officials, city team and local residents are passionate about the tight-knit community they’ve built and that they’re all working toward the same goal of making the city a desirable destination for visitors as well as the people who live here. She also recognized that her work at The Forum could play a part in that.
“A key piece of our redevelopment is focused on creating more synergy between The Forum and Town Center,” she said, “The goal is to form a true downtown area that offers access to cool shopping, dining and entertainment in one connected location, keeping people from having to drive to nearby cities for the experiences they’re craving and boosting local economic development.”
“I’ve loved being involved in The Forum’s retrofit and watching my ‘baby’ grow up,” she added. “It’s been fun to see our neighbors enjoy the new amenities and support our tenants — both old and new.”
On top of the responsibilities of her day job, Storck also shared that she is battling cancer. Diagnosed with Stage 1 triple-negative breast cancer in mid-September, she started chemo treatments in October and will continue through mid-March 2025. She’s met this challenge with the same determination and positive attitude she’s known for in her professional life, and simply stated, “I will beat this and come out stronger for it.”
As The Forum — and the Peachtree Corners community — continues to evolve and grow, Storck is happy to be part of it.
“I love the small-town vibe and getting to walk the property, stop and talk to our neighbors and listen to what they have to say. It’s such a wonderful feeling being in a place that brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate special moments. We [at The Forum] are so incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from city council and staff, as well as the community at large, all of whom make what I do worthwhile.”
TJ Dixon — GAC Middle School Principal
As middle school principal at Greater Atlanta Christian School, TJ Dixon has spent nearly two decades shaping students’ lives through education, coaching and leadership. Since moving to Peachtree Corners seven years ago, the Dixon family has become a vital part of the community, enjoying local traditions from friendly cornhole league competitions to the annual “Light Up the Corners” event. The Dixons say they appreciate the area’s unique blend of small-town warmth and big-city convenience.
Though a seasoned educator and coach, Dixon didn’t initially envision moving into administration. Encouragement from colleagues and a deep commitment to impacting students’ lives ultimately led him to accept the role of principal in 2020.
Starting his tenure amid COVID-19, Dixon recalled, “I had to figure out how to build community and support students while we were all six feet apart.”
Now in his fifth year, Dixon has established an environment where middle school students are known, connected and able to thrive academically, socially and spiritually. His goal is to personally know each student and to help them “remember middle school as a positive experience.”
“Middle school years can be tough,” he elaborated, “and I want kids to leave here with great memories and the skills to positively impact their communities.”
Dixon is passionate about fostering service-oriented leaders, regularly organizing mission trips and service projects to encourage students to think beyond themselves. Last year alone, GAC Middle School students participated in eight mission trips across the country. “If they leave here just being able to put others before themselves, the rest will take care of itself,” he said.
A recent policy update at GAC — requiring Yondr pouches to eliminate phone use during school hours — reflects Dixon’s commitment to fostering a focused and engaging environment.
“I think we’re building kids that you would want as your next-door neighbors in Peachtree Corners,” Dixon explained. “They are children who know how to put their phones down, engage meaningfully with those around them and contribute positively to their communities.” He believes that instilling these values early on will create a ripple effect beyond the school, ultimately strengthening the broader community.
Alongside his administrative role, Dixon coaches middle school football as offensive coordinator, varsity girls’ flag football and varsity girls’ lacrosse, often coaching one or more of his five children each season. He deeply values family involvement and building community through education.
Faces of Peachtree Corners 2024 originally ran in the December/January issue of Peachtree Corners Magazine. You can read the full digital edition here.