GET TO KNOW US

A native of Athens, GA, where he still resides today, James graduated from the University of Georgia with a BLA in Land Planning with a focus on Urban Design. James has expanded his real estate endeavors with Old Edwards Reserve at Lake Keowee, a family community in upstate South Carolina, and Rivet House, a boutique hotel in Athens, GA,  Southern Mill development which brings new life to the historic building.

Since 2003, James Whitley has been involved in the orchestration, design, development, construction, and management of over $13 Billion worth of student housing projects across the country. As Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Landmark Properties, James is responsible for all operational aspects associated with the company’s real estate portfolio. James has built a team of industry-leading professionals and has helped guide Landmark Properties to the forefront of the student housing industry, where they consistently rank as the most active student housing developer and the largest student housing general contractor in the country.

James serves on the UGA Real Estate Foundation. He was also appointed by Governor Kemp to Co-Chair the Georgians First Commission, served as the Board Chairman of the Athens Boys and Girls Club, and served on the University of Georgia’s Student Affairs Advisory Board. He is an active real estate broker in Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina, and is a member of the Athens Area Homebuilders Association and Athens Chamber of Commerce.

General Manager of Old Edwards Reserve at Lake Keowee, Tim Boeve brings over 20 years of hospitality expertise honed at renowned establishments like The Sea Island Company and The Wade Hampton Golf Club. He has led The Reserve since 2019, fostering a welcoming environment and elevating the guest experience through refined operations and a strong culture of connection. Tim champions team member development and community building, ensuring both guests and staff feel valued. A University of Minnesota graduate, he is also an active member of the Club Management Association of America (CMAA) and the PGA of America, demonstrating his commitment to advancing hospitality standards. His leadership and commitment to excellence continue to distinguish The Reserve as a premier destination. Tim resides in nearby Cashiers, NC with his wife and two sons.

Glenda Lance has over 15 years of club accounting experience, including nine years at The Reserve. She now leads the Membership Department, overseeing accounts and member services. A former business manager for her family's construction company, Glenda brings a strong background in finance and design. She lives in Transylvania County, North Carolina with her husband and is active in her community and at Biltmore Church in Brevard.

Since 2021, Dionne Fersner has led Human Resources at the Old Edwards Reserve at Lake Keowee, focusing on cultivating strong employee-leadership relationships and reinforcing a culture of collaboration, accountability, and growth. With a passion for fostering engaged, high-performing teams, Dionne plays a key role in aligning HR practices with the club’s mission and values. She currently resides in Easley, South Carolina.

Amy Choplin joined The Reserve in 2021 as a PEAK Leader in Training and quickly became a dynamic presence within the community. After serving as Member and Team Member Satisfaction Coordinator, she was promoted to Director of Family Programming in 2023. In this role, she launched the successful Wake Chaser program and continues to enhance the member experience with thoughtful initiatives. Amy also supports marketing and membership efforts, reflecting her versatility and commitment. She holds a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management from Clemson University and resides in Central, South Carolina.

A Spartanburg, South Carolina native, Sherami Harris holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in voice from Converse College and is a proud member of Delta Omicron music fraternity. She began her journey at The Reserve in 2021, returning in 2023, and brings a wide range of talents including food service experience, voice instruction, and event facilitation. Sherami is also a certified yoga instructor as of 2025, reflecting her continued pursuit of personal and professional growth.

Jeremiah Graham has led golf operations at The Reserve since 2018, following leadership roles at Wade Hampton Golf Club and Sea Island Golf Club. A Campbell University graduate and PGA of America member, he has elevated golf programming, merchandising, and player development, while overseeing major course renovations. Jeremiah is an avid fly fisherman and resides in Clemson with his wife and their dog. He is a proud native of Upstate New York and a lifelong Syracuse Orange and Buffalo Bills fan.

Originally from Casablanca, Morocco, Fathya came to the U.S. on a tennis scholarship and earned her business degree from Brenau University. A former national champion, she has competed in the FedCup, ITF, WTA, and African Championships. She has coached ALTA and USTA teams and developed junior and adult programs at several Atlanta-area clubs. Her passion is helping others grow to love tennis as she does.

Originally from Pauline, SC, Caleb Garrett is the Culinary Director at Old Edwards Reserve at Lake Keowee, where he brings a passion for seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a commitment to genuine hospitality. Caleb began his professional culinary journey at 16, gaining diverse experience in high-volume fine dining, events, catering, wine dinners, and private in-home service. Known for cultivating strong relationships with local farmers and ranchers, he crafts dishes that celebrate the region’s rich offerings and seasonal flavors. A player-coach at heart, he leads with humility, gratitude, and a hands-on approach that inspires his team and resonates with members. Outside the kitchen, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and camping with his wife Aubrey and their three children—Colt, Shobal, and Evangeline. For Caleb, hospitality is more than service; it’s the foundation of lasting connection and reputation.

Originally from Tampa, Florida, Michelle Jarrell brings more than 25 years of hospitality experience to The Reserve. She began her career as a line cook and advanced through roles in restaurant management, special events, and ultimately as Director of Food & Beverage at private country clubs across Florida since 2006. A proud graduate of St. Petersburg College and an active member of the Club Management Association of America, Michelle joined The Reserve team in 2022. She is known for cultivating a positive, service-driven workplace culture and thrives in collaborative environments that prioritize continuous improvement. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking—especially to scenic waterfalls—and competitive billiards. She lives in Central, South Carolina with her husband and their five beloved pets.

Brad and his wife Anita currently reside in Greenville, SC. Brad is the father of two children, his son is currently attending Clemson University, and his daughter is attending The College of Charleston.

He is a seasoned real estate professional with over two decades of experience at Old Edwards Reserve at Lake Keowee.

A native of Pickens, South Carolina, he earned a degree in Business Administration from Western Carolina University, where he was also a member of the golf team. His career began in 1999 as a Sales Associate with The Reserve, when his father Dean Ricker, and Dr. Buddy Thompson were the original founders.

In the summer of 2024, Brad rejoined The Reserve as the broker-in-charge of The Reserve Real Estate Group. His extensive knowledge of the local market and commitment to client satisfaction have made him a trusted advisor in the area.

Amanda Setzer brings over nine years of real estate experience, specializing in luxury properties, new construction, and land acquisition. She holds multiple designations, including CRS, ABR, and SRS. Amanda is known for her responsiveness and personalized service. A native of Pendleton, South Carolina, she has two daughters and enjoys cheering them on—whether at Clemson football games or on the soccer field.

A native of Ames, Iowa, Scott Ryerson has lived in Greenville, South Carolina for the past 15 years. A former wide receiver for the University of Nevada, he holds a degree in communications with a minor in journalism. Since 1999, Scott has held roles in beverage, construction, and marine sales, including a standout nine-year tenure at MarineMax, where he was ranked top five nationally. He transitioned into real estate in 2024, quickly surpassing $10 million in sales at The Reserve. An active community member, Scott coaches youth sports and enjoys cycling, wake surfing, and snow skiing.

Becky Gilstrap has been a valued part of The Reserve community for over 17 years, holding various roles before stepping into her current position in 2019. As Executive Director of the Old Edwards Reserve Charitable Foundation and Lifestyle Fund, she leads with purpose and passion, collaborating closely with the board and committees to create impactful events that support the arts, environmental initiatives, and community outreach. A native Californian who made her way to South Carolina via several states, Becky’s adaptability and warmth allow her to connect with people from all walks of life. A UNC-Greensboro graduate, she now calls South Carolina home, enjoying life on the farm, weekends on the lake, and time spent exploring the outdoors with her husband.

Sarah Center moved to Upstate South Carolina to attend Clemson University and decided to stay after graduating. She is newly married with a blended family of four children. Sarah helps support fundraising efforts for the Reserve Foundation and plans events with the Lifestyle Fund. She enjoys cooking, exploring new restaurants by motorcycle, and relaxing with her dog, Spencer.