Board of Directors

Deanna Rice, Board Chair

Originally from Philadelphia, Deanna grew up in Georgia and graduated from Kennesaw State University with a BA in Marketing. Her three boys, husband, and nine year old Chocolate Labrador keep her plenty busy! When she's not in Mommy mode, she also works as a full-time wardrobe stylist and is the owner of Elva Mae Boutique. 

Deanna was connected to Presencia through meeting Ruthie and Ian at church. It was after she had a chance to get to know some of the Presencia kids by escorting them to and from church that she fell in love with Presencia and became invested in the community.

Rob Lee

Rob was born and raised in Virginia but moved to Atlanta to pursue his undergraduate and graduate studies. He obtained his CPA license in Georgia while beginning a career in corporate tax. Rob was introduced to Ian and Ruthie, and their work in Presencia, through Open Table Community, the church that they attended together. Through his continued friendship with the North family and support for the work of Presencia, Rob now has the privilege of serving as the board treasurer.

Outside of the working life, Rob enjoys travelling to new places, is a musician at heart, and loves playing sports.

Ruth Evans

Ruth comes with 21 years of experience in Community Development and Nonprofit leadership. Ruth is the Executive Director of Unite - An organization that helps churches deeply know their community and collaborate with their neighbors to catalyze flourishing locally. Prior to her role at Unite, she was the co-founder and Executive Director of 2nd Mile, a holistic community development ministry.  

Ruth consults, speaks, and trains on topics of reconciliation, culture, and community development.

Dalex Sullivan

Having grown up in Gwinnett County in Georgia, Dalex developed an appreciation of cultural diversity and a heart for children. As she pursued her education at Kennesaw State University she worked in various childcare settings and often volunteered with local outreach ministries. 

She then went on to work in consulting as a Software Analyst and corporate Event Coordinator. She's since made her way back to what she's passionate about, children, and has made a career change to Preschool Director. She came to serve with Presencia first as a supporter wanting to help during the pandemic and has since developed a deeper love for Presencia's mission leading her to serve more.

She's got her hands full chasing her 1 year old son, but loves trying new recipes, reading romance novels, and roping her husband into many DIY projects around their home.

Kimberly Perez

Finding Presencia felt like coming home to Kimberly. As the child of Hispanic immigrants, she was looking for a place where she could speak Spanish, grow in her faith, and bring her family along. Kimberly, her husband, and their two children love connecting and serving together with the rest of the Presencia family. 

Kimberly currently directs operations for Presencia Goods, volunteers at our after-school program, and serves on our board of directors. 

Ryan Metzler

Ryan moved to Atlanta in 2012, and started working with Presencia in the neighborhood almost immediately. Because of a close friendship with Ian and Ruthie, he knew about the work they were doing and immersed himself in the community where they serve.
In Atlanta, Ryan built a career as a software engineer, eventually working as a CTO at a tech startup. He also served on the Board of Directors of Mass Collective, a local maker space and arts center.

In addition to his service on our board, Ryan has mentored young adults with Presencia, tutored students, and traveled with Presencia to various events.