Meet the Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is made up of passionate, experienced and dedicated individuals who are committed to supporting local artists and bringing the best arts experiences to our community. We believe that the arts can bring people together, foster connection and make a lasting impact.
President
Libby Everett
Libby is the founding member of the Petal Arts Council. She is a retired Administrative
Assistant for the Petal School District in the Special Education Department. Libby has been passionately encouraging and supporting the arts for many years, and is dedicated to creating an accessible and vibrant cultural landscape for all to enjoy.
Vice President
Jodie Brickson
Jodie, a professional artist with a BFA in Design Communication and Illustration. Jodie is dedicated to advancing art in the community through fundraising projects and arts programming. She also manages the innovative Petal Arts Trail. Jodie specializes in 2D Art and Jewelry Design.
Secretary
Debbie Elliott
Debbie is the Secretary of the Petal Arts Council and a paralegal at a local law firm and brings her legal expertise to her role in the Council. Debbie has a background in directing Children’s Choirs and has performed with local community choirs and Meistersingers. She brings her passion for the arts and music to her role in the Council, and is committed to helping the organization reach its goals.
Treasurer
David Pylate
David serves as the Treasurer and brings over 43 years of experience in hospital accounting as well as a passion for the performing arts. He is an accomplished pianist and has participated in numerous community choirs, Meistersingers, and the Georgia Symphony Chorus. Additionally, David has performed in several plays and musicals through local theater guilds.
Media Relations Director
Bethany Sharp
Bethany is responsible for media relations and helping to ensure the organization is communicating effectively. Bethany has a wealth of experience, serving as a receptionist at Hattiesburg Clinic for 35 years and having been involved with local theater for 38 years. In her spare time, she enjoys photography and singing. Her vast experience makes her an invaluable asset to the board.
Petal Community Choir Liason
Sheri Reid
Sheri is the Petal Community Choir Liaison. She majored in Art and has extensive experience teaching Art to students in grades 1-12. She has also served as a past director of the Boy Scouts. Sheri is passionate about the arts and enjoys 3D art, pottery, painting, and singing in the community choir. She is a great asset to the Arts Council and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Board.
Digital Strategy Director
Brent Rasberry
Brent is the Digital Strategy Director and has an appreciation of the creative arts and a strong understanding of the industry. He has 13 years of experience in audio engineering and music production. As an accomplished guitarist and active-duty military officer, Brent brings unique organizational and leadership skills to the board, Additionally, Brent is a local business of Blackbird Creations, specializing in laser engraving and design.
Board Member
Don Hill
Don is a free-lance photographer and Graphic Art and Imaging Technology Instructor at Presbyterian Christian School. He studied Art, Photography, and Journalism at University of Southern Mississippi. He is also a gifted performance musician on the hammered dulcimer. Don brings his diverse skills and experience to the Board of Directors and is passionate about making a difference in the community.