PRESIDENT

Kelly Barber currently serves as President of Heart of High Springs, Inc., where he helps lead the organization in its mission to serve and strengthen the local community. Kelly is deeply committed to making a positive and lasting impact in High Springs and the surrounding region. A native of Alachua, Florida, Kelly lives in his hometown with his wife, Christy, and is the proud father of two grown children, Julian and Haley, as well as his first grandchild, Lucy. 

Kelly is also the founder of The Barber Group, where he provides retirement planning and wealth management services through Raymond James. He is an active member of Canvas Church and values faith, service, and community involvement. Outside of his professional and nonprofit leadership roles, Kelly enjoys traveling and spending time with friends and family.

VICE PRESIDENT

Shawn Cowles serves as Vice President of The Heart of High Springs, Inc., supporting the organization’s mission to enrich the quality of life in High Springs through culture, economic growth, tourism, education, historic preservation, and revitalization.

An explorer and television personality, Shawn is known for his work on the Discovery Channel series Treasure Quest, where storytelling, history, and a sense of place were at the heart of the adventure. Locally, he co-owns Home Host Management, LLC with his wife, Adele—a High Springs–based vacation rental management company—and is passionate about responsible tourism and community-led projects that help residents, small businesses, and visitors experience what makes High Springs special.

TREASURER

A resident of High Springs for over twenty-three years Ross has a degree in Theater Arts & Communications and has spent a career working in film and television production.  Over the last decade he has applied his experience to grow a local business and has recently retired.  Ross has been involved in the community, serving over 18 yeas on the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board and most recently as a City Commissioner.  He has volunteered with many local organizations, been a member of the Alachua County Tourist Development council and currently is appointed as the Small Cities representative member of the County Surtax Review Board.

SECRETARY

BOARD MEMBER

BOARD MEMBER