Heather Bates - Director of Communications & Marketing
A little about me:
I love what I do! I feel very blessed to have such a great team and to also work with a truly great group of people at the City of Temple!
What we do matters so much. The City of Temple is such a gem and to be on the team that helps make that gem really shine, is pretty great!
I am married to a fantastic husband (Matt) who is originally from England. We met in Abilene, Texas while attending college. We have two AMAZING sons, Matthew and Callum!
What would you be doing if you went another direction in your career?
Meteorology
When you are not working, what are you doing?When I am not at work, I enjoy hanging out with my family. Usually we are having a nerf war or at a youth sporting event! I also enjoy "Amazon Priming" - gotta love that 'buy it now' button!
Brenda Aponte - Senior Marketing Assistant
A little about me:
A few years ago, I started working with the City in the Public Works Department. This experience has given me a deep appreciation for how the City seeks to improve the quality of life for our citizens, one program at a time. I’m excited to work with such an amazing team in Marketing and Communications, and I look forward to being a part of the great things happening within the City of Temple.
Best piece of advice?"Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning." - Bill Gates
Favorite inspirational quote?"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." - John Quincy Adams
Arielle Delery - Creative Services Manager/Graphic Designer
A little about me:
I was born and raised in New Orleans, and educated at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, GA. I spent several years as a freelance designer in Georgia before relocating to Texas as a graphic designer for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. I loved my time at the Symphony, but the big city lifestyle is not for me, so I decided to make Temple my home.
Favorite Insta or blog? @JackieHillPerry on Instagram
Hidden/special talents? I like to practice different accents. My favorite is Australian, but I can also do British, French, Russian, and Southern Belle.
Why I love Temple? It’s Texas, what’s not to love? Temple is charming and historic and small enough to see people you know out and about and big enough to have its own Buc-ees.
What would you do if you werent making a career in marketing/graphic design? Librarian |
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Sydney Johnston - Graphic Design Specialist
A little about me:
I grew up a Hoosier from Northwest Indiana, a part of the greater Chicagoland area. From a very young age, I spent a lot of my free time drawing or teaching myself via free tutorials (#internetblessings) how to code, take photographs or use the old Photoshop 7.0 program for fun (thanks to my dad's employer sharing access). By high school, I was pretty sure of the direction I wanted to go vocationally.
I moved to Utah for college and graduated from Brigham Young University with a B.A. in Design. Throughout my studying years, I worked in various positions: volunteer photographer, print publishing T.A., university athletics designer, and marketing design intern for a localization tech company.
After college, I moved to Hawaii for a year and a half to complete a post-grad internship in design brand management. Then I was lucky enough to find my way here to Texas to work for the City of Temple. I am so grateful for the opportunity to help strengthen the local community and look forward to all the interesting design projects that our department will be working on in the future.
Fun Fact about you I picked up conversational Spanish while living and serving in Mexico and Chile for 18 months….also, I’ve been struck by lightning and (spoiler) I lived.
Any hidden or special talents?
I can toss a flag around while dancing…I was on my university’s color guard team.
When you aren’t working, what are you doing?
I like to get together with friends to play volleyball, go dancing, play board games, go hiking and camping or just about anything outdoors. I also enjoy reading a good book or playing the occasional video game.
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Vacant - Multi-Media Specialist (Videographer/Photographer)
Lindsay Francis - Marketing & Digital Media Division Director
A little about me:
I grew up in a small town outside of San Antonio and moved to West Texas to attend Texas Tech (Wreck 'Em.) I graduated with a degree in Agricultural Communications and started my marketing career in Lubbock as the Communications Director for Texas Peanut Producers (yes, it's a real thing!) After eating my weight in peanuts, I relocated to Austin to work for a marketing agency.
It didn't take long for me to want to escape the horrific traffic of the city and start a new adventure! So here I am, making the transition into a slower-paced life as a Templite...Templonian...Templeton??
Why Marketing?I love storytelling. I enjoy getting to dive into what makes an organization special and sharing that with everyone. I also love to sprinkle in a little humor into my stories to keep readers on their toes and make sure they are paying attention.
Favorite inspirational quote? “To be sure of hitting the target, shoot first, and call whatever you hit the target.”
When you aren’t working, what are you doing?You can usually find me hanging with my husband, Jess. We love going out to local restaurants and fun spots around town. I also have a slight addiction to baking contest shows.. and I do enjoy baking although I'm not sure that I'm very good at it. Otherwise, I am traveling any chance I get to see my family across Texas.
Brittney Harris - Marketing Coordinator
A little about me:
I grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico and moved to Texas as fast as I could. I attended Abilene Christian University to play Division 1 Women's Soccer. I graduated with two degrees in Business Administration, Marketing and Management. I have a background in and passion for event planning.
I look forward to starting new adventures and setting down roots here in Temple, Texas.
Why Marketing? I love sharing information with others in a fun and exciting way. Social media and digital marketing have become two of the most popular ways for people to get information. Marketing is an ever-changing field that allows me to continue to learn. Favorite inspirational quote? "If you got a chance, take it, take it while you got a chance. If you got a dream, chase it, 'cause a dream won't chase you back" - Cody Johnson
When you aren’t working, what are you doing? I love sending time with my fiance, my Pug named Goose, and my Boston Terrier named Maverick. You can normally find me rock-crawling in our Jeeps somewhere in the middle of nowhere. I am a big foodie and love trying new restaurants. |
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Garrett Simmons - Marketing Specialist
My life has taken me on quite a journey from San Angelo to the bustling DFW area. Yet, amidst the city's chaos, I realized it wasn't where I or my family belonged. So, six years ago, I followed my heart and moved to Central Texas, where I found my passion as a self-taught graphic designer and social media manager.
I began my marketing career selling light bulbs but soon discovered my true fulfillment in creating vibrant communities and fostering a love for local living. Central Texas has become my canvas, and telling its stories has been amazing!
What would you be doing if you went in another direction in your career? Honestly, I would have tried my hand at interior design or being a florist.
When you are not working, what are you doing? When I am not at work, I am visiting every local business I can find. You will also find me and my family exploring the outdoors, camping, and fishing!
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Alexis Valencia - Marketing Specialist
Ambrie Dunn - Talent Marketing/Internal Communications Specialist
A little about me: - Copy (2).jpg)
I was born and raised right here in Temple, TX so I guess that makes me a true Temple native! I earned my degree in Mass Communications with concentrations in Public Relations, Advertisement, and Social Media from Stephen F. Austin State University. AXE’EM! While at SFA, I found my passion for digital media and modern communications strategy. I worked as a Social Media Manager in the retail realm for a while and loved it, but I obviously could not wait to make my return home because shortly after graduating I landed this job with The City of Temple. I am so grateful to be back in the town that raised me and serving my community alongside the best team!
What would you be doing if you went another direction in your career?
I would want to own my own women’s clothing boutique!
Favorite inspirational quote?
“Fall in love with the process of becoming the best version of yourself.” – Unknown
When you aren't working, what are you doing?
You can usually find me snuggled up with my puppy, Murphy, watching a crime show. I definitely consume way too much true crime content! I also enjoy cooking, being active and spending time with my friends.
Nohely Mackowiak - Communications & Public Relations Division Director
A little about me:

I was born and raised in sunny San Diego, California, and knew at a young age I had a passion for storytelling and information. I graduated from San Diego State University with a major in Journalism and Media Studies and a minor in Television, Film and New Media. This allowed me to explore all mediums, from working at a community newspaper to writing for a fashion magazine and finally stepping into the world of broadcast news.
My broadcast journey began at a cable news channel, and after five years there, I finally decided to explore local television. My first local TV station flew me to Temple, Texas, I stayed there for a year before exploring new opportunities at a competing news station. There, I grew as a a multi-media journalist, news anchor, producer, and lifestyle show host. After five years of reporting on Central Texas news, it was time to change gears and explore the world of Public Relations.
The City of Temple opened its doors to me and has allowed me to fall in love with a career that encourages my creativity and passion for storytelling in a different way. I never thought I would ever stay in Texas this long, and now I can't imagine leaving it. Temple quickly became a place I love to call home!
The best piece of advice you’ve ever received:
Everything in moderation!
Any hidden or special talents?
I am a self-taught baker and cake decorator, and created a business in San Diego called Nelly Bakes. Making beautiful edible works of art that others can enjoy brings me so much happiness.
When you aren’t working, what are you doing?
When I'm not working, I love spending time with my husband and three adorable children, who definitely keep us on our toes!
Megan Price - Public Relations Coordinator
A little about me:
I grew up in a small town right here in Central Texas and attended college at the
University of Texas in Austin. After graduating with a degree in English,
I wandered my way into Public Relations and loved being able to combine creativity
with communication. I began my PR career at an agency in Austin, and after working there for over a year and a half, I wanted to make a change and move out of the big
city craziness - not to mention the big city traffic! With all the growth and amazing things happening in Temple, I knew it would be the perfect fit for me.
I am so excited to start a new chapter here and so blessed to work in a
great city and be surrounded by great people!
Any hidden or special talents?
I can say the alphabet backward.
When you aren’t working, what are you doing?
You can catch me in the kitchen cooking or baking, spending time with family and friends, or attempting to grow things in my garden. I also love being outdoors and hiking, running, or walking.
Favorite Inspirational Quote?
“Always be ready to adjust, recalibrate and stay after it to become better, somehow.”
- Unknown
Charlese Butler - Public Relations Specialist
A little about me:
I am a native of the captivating state of North Carolina, some like to say "Carolina born, Carolina bred, Carolina dead," a sentiment with which I wholeheartedly agree. However, I embarked on a new chapter by leaving my hometown for college, enrolling at the University of Louisville to play D1 softball.
The four years I spent as a cardinal were transformative, introducing me to various opportunities, including my role on the SCORE board as the Chair of Social Media and Marketing. This experience ignited my passion for the realms of digital marketing and public relations. Additionally, I had the privilege of contributing to the Media Relations team at Randolph County government during my summers at home, affording me a firsthand perspective on the tangible impact one can have on their local community—an experience that significantly influenced my decision to join Temple.
The familiar sense of a close-knit community at Temple resonates with the "small town" ambiance of my upbringing, and I am enthusiastic about becoming a member of this exceptional and proficient team.The anticipation of what lies ahead is met with a sense of eagerness, and I am resolute in my commitment to contribute positively to our shared journey toward a vibrant future.
What would you be doing if you went another direction in your career?
I would be a fashion designer, buying and styling clothes has been always been a passion of mine. I'm what they call...a serial shopper!
Favorite inspirational quote?
“When you are not practicing, remember, someone somewhere is practicing, and when you meet him he will win.” ― Ed Macauley
When you are not working, what are you doing?
Spending time with my family and friends or shopping!
Teresa Anderson - Destination Marketing Division Director
A little about me:
I have been involved in leading destination marketing organizations (DMOs) for over 25 years and have enjoyed working with destination marketing organizations from the east coast (Hilton Head Island) to the west coast (Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, and West Hollywood) and locations between on various projects and programs including strategic and marketing planning, mystery shopping, public relations and accreditation assistance.
I am thrilled to be part of the brilliant Marketing and Communications team. They do amazing work for the City of Temple.
I spent most of my life in southern Indiana and made my way to Texas just 4 years ago. I am really loving that decision.
I am married to an amazing husband who is originally from Canada. He is loving our life in Texas. Our grown son and daughter-in-law live in Las Vegas.
Favorite inspirational quote?
“Your smile is your logo, your personality is your business card, how you leave others feeling after an experience with you becomes your trademark.” Jay Danzie
When you aren’t working, what are you doing?
I am a voracious reader, an avid gardener, a creative cook and enthusiastic boutique shopper.
Sennett Farias - Destination Marketing Coordinator
A little about me
I was born and raised here in Temple, Texas. I am proud to call Temple my home. I have been with the City for almost 10 years working with the Temple Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Discover Downtown and now with the Marketing & Communications Department.
Favorite inspirational quote?A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.- Herm Albright
“Tweet us on Facebook!” — Johnny Rose
Why Marketing?Temple is my home. This is a great place to live and work and I want others to know all the amazing things Temple has to offer.
When you aren't working, what are you doing?I like to relax by listening to music, cross-stitching, reading, and hanging out with my fur baby, Parker. She is spoiled but super cute, and she knows it. Her favorite activities are napping, car rides, and treats.
Fun Fact Nobody Knows About Me?If I put it on the internet everyone will know and it won't be a secret.
Best Advice You've Been Given?Never let anyone treat you like a yellow starburst. You are a pink starburst.
Favorite Social Media Accounts You Follow? @Theawkwardyeti @Nathanwpylestrangeplanet @misterbubz
Courtney Pierce - Destination Experience Specialist
A Little about me:
I grew up in the dry heat of West Texas in Lubbock AKA the hometown of Buddy Holly and featured in Josh Abbott Band’s “She’s Like Texas.” I attended Texas Tech University, where I began my bachelor’s degree in Architecture before switching to a double major in Marketing and Management at the Rawls College of Business. I graduated with dual degrees in 2019.
In 2019, I released my first young-adult novel. In 2021, I published a poetry collection. Next, I hope to publish another novel that has been a work-in-progress due to the overwhelming number of ideas running through my mind. I find I draw a lot of inspiration for characters from those who have had a big impact on my life or who inspire me.
Though I have only been in Temple for a short while, I love the work I do, the incredible team I get to work with, and the heart of the locals. I have witnessed so much change for the city already and I cannot wait to see what the future has in store.
Favorite inspirational quote?
Little by little, one travels far. – J. R. R. Tolkien
What would you be doing if you didn’t follow a marketing path?
I would be doing something that allows me to put my creativity to good use (most likely dreaming of becoming the Joanna Gaines of Temple, TX), writing full-time, or pursuing a career path involving architecture and cathedral restoration work. I’ve always been very fascinated with the detailing that goes into cathedral design.
When you aren’t working, what are you doing?
You can find me reading or snuggled up with my aussiedoodles Tony Stark -known to the world as Stark- and Millie Marvel. I spend a fair amount of time writing, crafting, and making decorated cookies.
Fun Fact About You?
I have a real estate license in the state of Texas.
Favorite Social Media Accounts You Follow?
@joannagaines @creepy_scrawlers @thegingerwanderlust
Diane Jones - Sales & Marketing Specialist
A Little about me:

After growing up along the humid gulf coast region of Texas and then four years living in Houston, I was very happy to relocate to the dryer climate of Temple in 1982—what a difference three hours makes! My husband and I have been empty nesters for quite a while now, as our son and daughter are young adults who live elsewhere.
I joined the Sales Department of the Temple Convention & Visitors Bureau in 2011. I absolutely love living in Temple and love promoting our destination to people/groups across the state and beyond!
The best piece of advice you’ve ever received: You have only one chance to make a good first impression.
Favorite inspirational quote: “The grass is greener where you water it.” - Neil Barringham
When you aren’t working, what are you doing: While not at the office, I’m often at the gym -- I really enjoy exercising and socializing in my group fitness classes. I also spend an extreme amount of time reading (non-fiction only), love traveling and am always ready to tune in to a scrappy hockey game (like Wayne Gretzky’s grandmother)!
Fun Fact about you: My husband and I are a song……”Jack and Diane” by John Mellencamp
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Emily Betros - Sales & Marketing Specialist
A Little about me:
I am from a small town that isn’t too far from Temple, Texas. I attended Texas A&M.
University – Mays Business School where I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a concentration in Retail Buying and Management. I am so excited to be a part of the Marketing & Communications Department at the City of Temple and love the work that I do. In the short time that I have been here, I have loved every aspect of my career/department and look forward to what is in store for the future.
When you aren't working, what are you doing?
In my free time, I am an avid reader, like being active, and enjoy spending with my husband, Garrett, & our friends and family.
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Dan Kelleher - Main Street Manager