Vesta Republic is a group of passionate, creative leaders who help shape the experiences, connections, and traditions that make us unique. From volunteer events and celebrations to company-wide initiatives, they exist to make sure every employee feels valued, heard, and inspired.
It’s not about bake-offs and team-building alone (though we love those too). It’s about purpose, about building a culture that reflects who we are as a company and the values we share. Every Republic initiative is thoughtfully planned to strengthen our community, support our teams, and contribute to the greater good. Members of Vesta Republic work closely with leadership to design meaningful programs, coordinate volunteer opportunities, and ensure that the “Vesta spirit” shines across every property and department. Because at Vesta, culture isn’t just something we talk about — it’s something we live.
If Vesta Republic had a heartbeat, it would sound a lot like Alicia’s energy, passionate, people-focused, and a little bit unstoppable.
Nearly nine years into her journey with Vesta, Alicia has worn many hats, but her proudest creation might just be Vesta Republic, the culture-building heartbeat of the company. She launched it in 2023 with one clear vision: to bring people together, make sure every voice feels heard, and remind everyone that they’re part of something bigger than themselves.
“There’s so much that happens in our industry, and it’s constantly changing,” she says. “I wanted to create a space where our teams feel supported, connected, and celebrated, while also giving back to the communities that surround us.”
Her favorite Republic memory goes back to that very beginning. She admits she was nervous when she first announced the program, unsure if anyone would want to join. “The amount of support and applications I received blew me away,” she recalls. “It’s something I’ll never forget.”
Alicia’s volunteering superpower is all about making sure the behind-the-scenes details run flawlessly (though her signature enthusiasm tends to steal the spotlight anyway). She brings the energy, the organization, and the soundtrack (usually “Put On” by Young Jeezy and Kanye West) to every event.
She’s the type to show up with water in hand, a plan in motion, and a crowd-ready smile. Even she’s surprised sometimes by how social she’s become: “I didn’t realize how much I love connecting with our teams until Vesta Republic started!”
If she could plan her dream Republic event, it’d be the ultimate one, a massive, all-hands celebration bringing together every single one of Vesta’s 400+ employees. (“It’d be a lot, but worth it!” she laughs.)
Her heart, though, belongs to community causes like the Tulsa Day Center and Ronald McDonald House Charities, organizations that embody the spirit of compassion and care she brings to Vesta every day.
When Mario walks into a room, the energy shifts (usually to the rhythm of Rick Ross or 2 Chainz). As Vesta’s Director of Media and PR, he’s the storyteller behind the brand, the steady voice in the room, and the person who can somehow turn any camera-shy team into a confident crew.
Mario joined Vesta three years ago and was personally invited by Alicia to lend his creative touch, and he’s been shaping how the world sees Vesta ever since. Whether it’s capturing moments, building narratives, or helping teams tell their own stories, Mario brings both vision and heart to everything he does.
Joining the Republic was an easy yes. “Alicia graciously asked, and how could I say no?” he laughs. But for Mario, it’s about more than a title, it’s about connection. He loves watching Vesta’s kindness shine through at events like the Vestival, where generosity and joy take center stage. “It warms my heart to see how our teams show up for one another,” he says.
When it comes to volunteering, Mario’s superpower is his ability to see people, to meet them where they are and talk them through the moment. He’s focused, grounded, and always intent on making sure Vesta is represented with pride. And if there’s a mic nearby, don’t be surprised if he ends up MC’ing, it’s kind of his thing.
If he could plan his dream Republic event, it would be something deeply meaningful: volunteering at the tiny homes for veterans in Kansas City again, or visiting a nursing home to bring laughter and light to seniors. He’s also passionate about cancer prevention and research, a cause close to his heart after losing both his father and friends to the disease.
Outside of work, Mario’s creative spark shines just as brightly — he’s been making music for more than half his life, and his motto says it all: “Dreams are just realities waiting to happen.”
If there’s a crisis, a clipboard, or a corporate retreat on the horizon, Ashton is already five steps ahead (probably with a Diet Dr Pepper in hand and a backup plan printed in triplicate).
Ashton joined Vesta in March 2020 as Marc’s assistant and receptionist, but within days, her knack for keeping things running smoothly earned her a spot in HR. From there, she helped build the Talent Acquisition department before taking on her current role as Ben’s Executive Assistant, where she keeps operations on track.
For Ashton, Vesta isn’t just a job. It’s home. “It gave me belonging, purpose, and people who feel like family,” she says. “That same heart I first saw in 2020 is still here.” Joining the Republic was her way of helping protect that heart, and making sure every employee feels that same sense of pride and connection.
Her favorite Republic memory? The corporate retreat Happy Hour, when all the details finally came together, and she got to pause and take in the joy she helped create. “It filled my heart with so much happiness,” she says.
Known for her ability to organize chaos, Ashton thrives in fast-paced environments (“I didn’t earn ‘Chaos Coordinator’ when the seas were calm”). She’s always the first to volunteer, the first to laugh, and the first to pull out extra copies of the event schedule… just in case.
If she could plan her dream Republic event, it would be a volunteer day at the veteran center where she once worked as a CNA simply to sit, listen, and share stories with residents who deserve to feel remembered.
When she’s not keeping Vesta’s world spinning, Ashton can be found speeding (safely-ish) to “Life in the Fast Lane,” snacking on Nerd Gummy Clusters, and proving that sometimes the fastest driver in corporate is also the one with the biggest heart.
If there’s an event in motion, chances are Jamie’s already three steps ahead planning, organizing, and quietly making sure everything runs flawlessly behind the scenes.
Jamie joined Vesta in September 2023, and from her very first interview, she knew she wanted to be part of something bigger. “From the banner in the lobby to hearing Ben talk about the Republic during training, I was immediately sold,” she says. “I knew right away this was something I wanted to be a part of, and it hasn’t disappointed.”
Her favorite Republic memory so far is the Summer Vestival, where all the planning and hard work came together in one big celebration. “Seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces and knowing we helped make that happen, it was incredibly rewarding,” she says.
Jamie’s volunteer superpower is her behind-the-scenes magic. She thrives on coordination, logistics, and all the little details that keep the day flowing. She brings boundless energy (and a can-do attitude that’s probably fueled by a Monster and Reese’s combo) to every event, ready to jump in wherever she’s needed.
Her most surprising skill? Pure strength. “After the Vestival, I realized I’d used my muscles more than my brain,” she laughs. “I was sore for weeks!”
If she could plan her dream Republic event, it would definitely involve animals. Partnering with the American Therapeutic Riding Center, helping both the horses and the individuals who benefit from the program, would be a dream come true. She’s passionate about animal welfare, rescue, and making sure every pet finds a loving home.
Jamie lives by a simple but powerful motto: “Leave things better than you found them.”
And while she might insist she’s “pretty boring outside of work,” everyone knows she’s the quiet force that keeps things moving and makes every event (and team) better than before.
When there’s a lot happening at once (which, let’s be honest, is almost always) Garridy is in his element. With a knack for planning, multitasking, and keeping things running smoothly, he brings order (and style) to the beautiful chaos that is Vesta life.
Garridy joined Vesta nearly two years ago and quickly became known for his “get it done” attitude and thoughtful approach to every project. Joining the Republic was a natural fit. “I love planning,” he says, “and I felt like I had skill sets that could really add value to the team.”
His favorite Republic memory so far? The Summer Vestival, a day full of fun, teamwork, and that unmistakable Vesta energy. It’s the kind of event he thrives on, juggling logistics, problem-solving, and probably helping three people at once without breaking a sweat.
His volunteering superpower is multitasking like a pro, managing several things at once while keeping a positive, hardworking spirit. (And if you hear NFL Films music blasting in the background, he’s probably hyping himself up on the way there.)
A true creative at heart, Garridy has even surprised himself by tapping into his graphic design background during Republic events. He loves bringing an artistic touch to the team’s initiatives, blending precision with creativity.
If he could plan his dream Republic event, it would be a Tulsa vs. OKC Auction Fundraiser, a little friendly competition for a good cause. He’s especially passionate about supporting resources for pregnant mothers, an issue close to his heart.
His motto says it all: “Love is not just the biggest thing, love is the ONLY thing.”
And if you ever need a conversation starter, just ask about him about his nearly 200-hat collection. (Yes, really. And no, he’s not done collecting.)
If calm had a name, it might just be Marie. As one of Vesta’s steady hands and quiet problem-solvers, she brings a sense of balance and focus to everything she touches, even the most chaotic event days.
Marie celebrated her two-year Vesta anniversary this year, and in that time, she’s become known for her cool head, sharp memory, and ability to keep everyone (and everything) on track. When she joined the Republic, it was because she saw something special in the way it cared not just for the community, but for the people who make up Vesta itself. “I love how much the Republic gives back and how it takes care of the culture internally,” she says.
Her favorite memory so far? The Vestival, hands down. “It came together so seamlessly and was such a good time,” she says, which is high praise from someone who notices every detail.
Marie’s volunteering superpower is her calmness — she’s the peacekeeper, the quiet coordinator, and the person you want nearby when things start to get hectic. (She’s also the one you’ll thank later when your phone’s about to die, she always has a portable charger or two on her.)
Her go-to hype music might be Kendrick Lamar, but her vibe leans more chill and centered than chaotic. She’s happiest when everything is running smoothly and everyone feels cared for whether that’s at a volunteer event, a Vestival, or in her daily work at Vesta.
If she could plan her dream Republic event, it would be a laid-back beach or pool day, a chance for the team to relax, recharge, and simply enjoy each other’s company. She’s passionate about supporting causes that uplift children, ensuring every kid has the chance to thrive and build a bright future.
Her favorite quote reflects the way she approaches life and leadership: “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” — Albert Einstein
And while she insists she’s “more boring than people think,” everyone around her knows the truth, Marie’s calm confidence and quiet humor make her one of the most grounding forces in the room.
If you’ve ever met Mickey, you know the energy hits before the handshake. With his trademark grin, upbeat attitude, and a playlist that probably includes AC/DC, Mickey brings life to every project whether he’s greening up a property or rallying the crew for a Republic event.
Mickey joined Vesta a little over a year and a half ago, and it didn’t take long for his enthusiasm and “get-it-done” mindset to make an impression. When asked why he joined the Republic, his answer was simple: “Opportunities to serve, learn, and contribute.”
His favorite Republic moment so far? Vestival 2024, of course, a day that combined teamwork, laughter, and a whole lot of positive energy (which, coincidentally, happens to be Mickey’s superpower). He’s the guy you’ll find handing out high-fives, hauling boxes, and cracking jokes, all while making sure everyone stays hydrated. (“Water and gum, I don’t leave home without them,” he laughs.)
Mickey’s flexibility and optimism shine brightest when plans change, because let’s face it, they always do. “Being adaptable is key,” he says.
If he could plan his dream Republic event, it would be one that gives back to the VA, a cause close to his heart. He’s also passionate about pet adoption, helping animals find homes and humans who need them just as much.
Fueled by Snickers and Mountain Dew (the official combo of unstoppable energy), Mickey lives by a simple motto that sums him up perfectly: “Facta non verba.” — Deeds, not words.
And just when you think you’ve got him figured out, here’s a fun fact: before Vesta, Mickey was a collegiate rugby player, so yes, that high-energy spirit has always been part of the game. Go Hogs!
When there’s an event happening and laughter in the air, chances are Hunter’s somewhere in the middle of it — cracking jokes, keeping spirits high, and making sure everyone’s having a good time while still getting things done.
Hunter has been with Vesta for two years and first joined the culture side of the company as a Vesta Ambassador during its inaugural year. After that experience, joining the Vesta Republic was a natural next step. “It’s given me more opportunities than ever before to give back, both to the community and to our company,” she says.
Her favorite Republic memory so far? The Summer Vestival. “I’ve always had a blast attending,” she says, “but being behind the scenes on the operational side made it even more fun and rewarding.”
Hunter’s superpower at volunteer events is simple but invaluable, she makes people laugh. Whether the team is setting up tables or running on little sleep, she keeps the energy light and positive. She always brings a great attitude, a Starbucks Pink Drink in hand, and usually a song like ‘Rock Me’ by One Direction blasting on the way there.
She’s discovered a few hidden talents along the way too, namely multitasking, which comes in handy when juggling event logistics, timelines, and a dozen last-minute details.
If Hunter could plan her dream Republic event, it would be volunteering at a dog rescue, specifically, a Corgi rescue. (She’s thought this through.) She’s also passionate about raising awareness for Alzheimer’s disease, a cause close to her heart after watching loved ones face it.
Hunter lives by one of the most fitting quotes for her time on the Republic: “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” — Dr. Seuss
And for a fun fact? When she’s not working or volunteering, you might find her in the sky! She’s taken flying lessons with a friend of her dad who’s an airline pilot and hopes to earn her Private Pilot License soon.
The Vesta Republic team volunteered at the Tulsa Botanic Garden to help prepare for their signature annual fundraiser, Feast of the Hunters Moon.
Vesta Republic volunteers spent the day at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, lending a hand to fight hunger across our state.
Our teams in Tulsa and Oklahoma City hosted the 2nd Annual Backpack Drive, providing school supplies and backpacks to Vesta families as they prepared for a new year of learning.
To celebrate Margeaux and spread some midweek cheer, the Vesta Republic team brought the Bondi Bowls food truck to the office!
Vesta Republic volunteers teamed up with the horticulture staff at the Tulsa Botanic Garden for a hands-on day of garden care.
Our leasing teams traded their desks for tool belts to experience what it’s like to walk in our maintenance teams’ shoes for a day.
