CVA Proudly Welcomes Two More Community Leaders to Its Board of Directors

The Carlsbad Village Association (CVA) is honored to welcome two new members to its volunteer Board of Directors, Tess Sangster and Aaron Williams. Their deep ties to Carlsbad, extensive professional experience, and shared commitment to a vibrant and thriving Village will bring valuable perspectives to the organization.

Earlier this year, CVA welcomed Cory Orcutt and Abby Snyder to the Board of Directors, continuing to strengthen a group of dedicated community leaders who share a passion for supporting Carlsbad Village. We are excited to build on that momentum with the addition of Tess and Aaron.

Tess Sangster is a Carlsbad native and currently serves as the City of Carlsbad’s Economic Development Director. With nearly two decades of experience advancing economic development initiatives throughout North County, Tess brings a strong background in strategic planning, partnership development, fundraising, and community engagement.

Her career has included work with the City of San Marcos as well as serving as Executive Director of the Cardiff 101 Main Street Association, where she developed strong partnerships among local businesses, community organizations, and civic stakeholders. A graduate of Claremont McKenna College, Tess is passionate about strengthening local businesses, fostering vibrant communities, and creating opportunities for residents and visitors to connect and thrive.

With both professional expertise and a lifelong connection to Carlsbad, Tess looks forward to helping support the continued vitality of the Village while preserving the character and community spirit that make it such a special place.

Aaron Williams, owner of Kona Craft Café, brings more than 35 years of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry, including 27 years working right here in Carlsbad Village. His many years in the Village have given him a firsthand understanding of the local business community and a deep appreciation for the people and places that make downtown Carlsbad unique.

As a local business owner, Aaron is invested in the continued success of the Village and passionate about strengthening connections among businesses, residents, and the broader community. He looks forward to helping preserve the character of the Village while supporting its thoughtful growth and evolution.

Outside of work, Aaron enjoys traveling, hiking, and watersports and appreciates the coastal lifestyle that is such an important part of the Carlsbad community.

CVA is grateful to welcome Tess and Aaron to the Board of Directors and looks forward to the experience, insight, and community-minded perspective they will bring. Together with our current board members, they will help guide CVA’s continued work to support local businesses, strengthen community connections, and ensure Carlsbad Village remains a vibrant and welcoming place to live, work, and visit.

Please join us in warmly welcoming Tess Sangster and Aaron Williams to the CVA Board of Directors.