Meet the Team
Your Community Life team is here to bring the life-changing power of community to Alamar. Find out more about the people keeping things running behind the scenes.
Shay Thomas
Executive director
Shay serves as part strategist, part problem-solver, and part community cheerleader. With a passion for building strong neighborhoods and an eye for operational excellence, Shay leads with the belief that a well-managed community is the foundation for residents to truly thrive.
Shay oversees everything from financial stewardship and vendor partnerships to long-range planning alongside the Board of Directors and Community Life team.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, four dogs, and a cat — showing she’s just as dedicated at home as she is to the community she serves.
Melissa Villalobos
Operations manager
Melissa brings heart, organization, and steady leadership to Alamar. She is passionate about creating strong systems, supporting her team, and helping residents feel connected to their community. Melissa thrives on keeping things moving forward while building meaningful relationships along the way.
Melissa loves spending time with her family — especially her granddaughter. As a proud mom of five boys, life has always been full and lively. At home, she and her husband enjoy life with their two dogs and enjoy making the most of everyday moments together.
Navy Aska
Engagement and communications manager
Navy is a creator and a connector who found her calling in building spaces in places to cultivate community — turning ideas into experiences that bring people together whether it’s planning events, building relationships, or supporting residents.
In her spare time, you’ll find her spending time with her husband, three children, and a feline named Io. Navy also loves seeing new sights, discovering new eateries, diving into craft and DIY projects, and connecting with people on the pickleball courts. She believes in leaving footprints of impact and making every space she enters just a little bit better than it was.
Vinnie Guerra
Community assets manager
Vinnie brings a strong commitment to service, safety, and teamwork to Alamar. Inspired by the spirit of ‘Ohana — the Hawaiian value of family and community — he takes pride in creating a welcoming environment where community assets are maintained with attention to detail and residents feel cared for.
Vinnie enjoys staying active through MMA and rugby, restoring classic cars, riding with the Patriot Guard Riders, and spending time with his church community.
Risa Ellison
Community operations coordinator
Originally from Des Plaines, Illinois — Risa mostly grew up in the Avondale area. She joined the Alamar team in February 2022 — when the community was still small and growing. Known for her bright smile that lights up every room, Risa is fondly recognized as the girl with the pink hair. She takes great pride in her work and the role she plays in the community.
When she’s not working, Risa enjoys crocheting and spending time playing Stardew Valley.
Ambassadors
Christopher Williams
Borned and raised in Phoenix, Chris now proudly calls Alamar home and have been part of the community since the beginning. Christopher genuinely enjoys living in Alamar and take great pride in contributing to its continued growth and success.
Christopher enjoys listening to music and spending quality time with friends — exploring new activities and experiences together.
Hazel Rucobo
At work, Hazel enjoys contributing to events to create fun, meaningful experiences that helps strengthen the community. She strives to foster a supportive and approachable environment where both residents and the team feel comfortable turning to her with questions or for a helping hand.
In her spare time, Hazel enjoys cozy days at home with a good book or spending time crafting.
Mya Aska
Originally from Long Beach, California — Mya has been part of the Alamar team since 2023. As both resident and ambassador, she loves creating a welcoming and fun environment for children and families while sharing her enthusiasm for the community. Friendly and approachable, Mya enjoys helping neighbors feel right at home.
Outside of work, Mya loves shopping and getting lost in a good book.
Tash Robinson
Originally from Phoenix — Tash brings a positive attitude and people-first approach to the Alamar team. She enjoys building meaningful connections with residents and takes pride in helping make every experience at Alamar a positive one.
Tash enjoys staying active through sports and exercise, discovering great food, and diving into a great book.
Brianna Lopez Baez
Brianna brings a fun outgoing personality, and a passion for people. She considers herself an extrovert and enjoys connecting with everyone from children to adults.
Brianna is studying to become an elementary school teacher and enjoys learning new skills. She’s also a proud collector of rubber ducks and is always looking to share a laugh with those around her.