Our Panel

Donna’s experience includes private and public sector communications, including her role as a Communications Specialist at Kaiser Permanente, where she provided communication support for hospital leadership and managed social media. Executive Director for a Montana non-profit organization that assisted the building and development community. Most recently, Donna is the Group Communications Officer for the Land Use & Environment Group at the County of San Diego where she facilitates stakeholder outreach, coordinate press announcements, and engage with the media.

Investing in communities through digital relationships is a fundamental effort for Ryland Penta. As the Digital Strategies Coordinator for the City of Palm Desert, developing online outreach and engagement methods is his passion and has been key to revolutionizing how individuals communicate and trust government entities.  

A native to the Pacific Northwest, Ryland most recently worked at the United States Congress in Washington DC coordinating a diplomatic exchange program for Members of Congress. He has a Master of Science in International Relations with honors from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Washington in Political Sciences, where he graduated magna cum laude.  

As an avid traveler, he lived in Australia as part of their Working Holiday Visa scheme and took the opportunity to backpack extensively throughout Asia and Europe. Today he enjoys spending time with his labradoodle, Waffles, and volunteering with organizations across the beautiful Coachella Valley.

Laurie Huelga started her local government communications career at the City of Monterey in 2001. Working in web development and content editing, Laurie's passion for digital technology expanded over the years into graphics, user experience, and ADA compliance. As a member of the Emergency Operations PIO Team beginning in 2007, Laurie gained emergency communications and media relations experience and since 2017 has served as the City’s Public Information Officer. One of the roles she most appreciates is engaging with residents and helping build community in her favorite city, Monterey, California. She also enjoys serving as the City’s sister city liaison, supporting connections with seven sister cities throughout the world. In 2019 Laurie earned her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). She is a proud member of California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO).

Michelle is a change agent who passionately believes in the role technology can play in improving our communities and our organizations.  She has held roles that range from city planner to international for-profit developer, including positions in Utah, Colorado, Oregon, and the United Arab Emirates.  She is currently focused on making a difference by sharing her passion for technology and democracy.