Ask the Experts: Big Ideas for Big Anniversaries

Robin Hinesley previously worked in the private sector in advertising and public relations and joined Gwinnett County as a part-time Resources and Marketing Specialist for Parks & Recreation in 2012. She then spent two years at Bogan Park Community Recreation Center, learning the ropes as a Recreation Program Leader. In the years since, she has marketed thousands of events, created countless flyers and forms, crafted signage big and small, written hundreds of newsletters and even more award submissions, edited manuals, orchestrated special projects, and installed cable-sign systems at about 60 facilities -- among other job duties and responsibilities; and she graduated from the LEAD (Leadership, Education, and Development) Academy. In January, Robin stepped into the new role of Engagement & Collaboration Division Director, overseeing marketing needs for both Community Services and Parks & Recreation with her eight-person team. A proud mom to two grown children, Robin enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading, kayaking and hiking, cooking, and watching crime drama!

Elizabeth Russell, TMP, currently serves as the In-Market Strategist for the Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau (TCVB). In this role, she manages visitor experience, engages with community partners to develop unique tourism products and experiences, and collaborates with industry partners to encourage deeper engagement with the Tupelo community for travelers visiting the city. Elizabeth joined the TCVB in 2016 after serving as the Marketing and Public Relations Director with the Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association (DTMA). Prior to her work in Main Street, Elizabeth spent 10 years with the Marketing and Public Relations Department at North Mississippi Health Services, headquartered in Tupelo, Mississippi. A graduate of the Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College, Elizabeth is also the recipient of the 2021 Southeast Tourism Society Rising Star Award. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Southeast Festivals and Events Association and is a member of the Mississippi Tourism Association and Southeast Tourism Society. A cum laude graduate of the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Elizabeth is the mother of two boys, Walker and Lewis, and resides in Tupelo, Mississippi.

With more than eight years of municipal service and a strong foundation in administration, public engagement, and volunteer leadership, Jacona Hester brings a deep understanding of how to weave tradition, storytelling, and community pride into every celebration. As Events Coordinator for the Town of Fort Mill, Jacona is passionate about creating experiences that are both memorable and meaningful—events that reflect the Town’s unique culture and community spirit while bringing people together in joyful, authentic ways. Her background in administration and communications has shaped her into a trusted leader known for her organization, creativity, and ability to connect with the public. From concept to execution, she brings energy, heart, and attention to detail to every Town event. Jacona leads the planning and production of Fort Mill’s signature events, including the beloved South Carolina Strawberry Festival, Independence Day Celebrations, Fall Festival, Scarecrow Crawl, and Holiday events. She also manages milestone commemorations, concerts, the Town’s Farmers Market, and a variety of family-friendly gatherings that make Fort Mill a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. Outside of her role, Jacona remains an active member of the community and a passionate advocate for civic engagement. Whether behind the scenes or front and center, she takes pride in helping Fort Mill shine. Her work is rooted in honoring the past and building lasting connections among residents, businesses, and visitors. From historic recognitions to full-scale festivals, Jacona ensures every milestone is celebrated with purpose and heart.