Meet the Team Behind Ballston
Our dedicated staff works every day to make Ballston a vibrant, connected, and thriving community.
Danette Nguyen | Chief Executive Officer
Danette Nguyen brings expertise in economic development, community engagement, and business innovation to the Ballston Business Improvement District (BID). She holds a B.S. in Marketing and Management Information Systems from George Mason University, blending strategic and technical skills.
Her experience includes roles at the Maryland Women’s Business Center, supporting small business growth, and Fairfax City’s Economic Development Office, fostering local business success and community engagement. She has developed programs like retail incubators, entrepreneurship support initiatives, and marketing campaigns that promote local businesses and attractions. Her strategic vision and collaboration have made her a leader in urban development and public-private partnerships.
Danette served on the board of the Association of Women’s Business Centers, advancing resources for women entrepreneurs. She is a graduate of the Emerging Leaders Program from the International Downtown Association and Leadership Maryland, and is also a member of the Lead Class of 2026 with the Leadership Center of Arlington—reflecting her dedication to professional and regional development.
In her free time, she enjoys cooking, exploring new cities, and spending time with her family.
Danette can be reached at danette@ballstonbid.com
Pinky Advani | Business and Community Engagement Director
Pinky is originally from Mumbai, India, and moved to Arlington, VA, over 20 years ago for love. A long-time Ballston resident, she proudly refers to herself as the “Queen of Ballston”. Outside of work, she enjoys watching mafia films and web series, following Bollywood news, and is an avid fan of Anthony Bourdain.
Before joining the Ballston BID, Pinky spent 12 years with Arlington Transportation Partners, part of the Destination Sales and Marketing Group. In that role, she managed the employer transportation demand management program for key Arlington neighborhoods, including Clarendon, Virginia Square, and Ballston.
At the BID, Pinky leverages her deep experience in account management to engage stakeholders and communicate the value of BID programs, events, and initiatives. She serves as a key liaison and ambassador for the Ballston business community. Pinky is also a member of the 2026 Ignite Class with the Leadership Center of Arlington, further demonstrating her commitment to leadership and community engagement.
Pinky can be reached at pinky@ballstonbid.com
Jackie Nnaji | Marketing and Communications Manager
Jackie Nnaji brings a dynamic background in marketing, content creation, and strategic communications to the Ballston BID. A Northern Virginia native and graduate of George Mason University with a degree in Business Management, Jackie is passionate about elevating brands and creating meaningful community engagement through storytelling.
Prior to joining the BID, Jackie held marketing roles in the hospitality and franchising industries, most recently managing national campaigns for multiple franchise brands under Neighborly. She also served as Site and Marketing Manager at Hilton in Washington, D.C., where she led creative content to procure high-profile events and helped drive over $54 million in business revenue. Her expertise includes short-form video production, social media management, and data-driven campaign strategies.
Having grown up near Ballston, Jackie is excited to contribute to the neighborhood’s continued success. She looks forward to highlighting the people and places that make Ballston a vibrant and innovative destination.
Jackie can be reached at jackie@ballstonbid.com
Francisco Cartagena | Operations Manager
Francisco Cartagena brings a multidisciplinary background in government, economic development, and project management to his role as Operations Manager at the Ballston Business Improvement District (BID). Originally from El Salvador, he holds a B.A. in Political Science and a Master’s in Cybersecurity from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC).
At the BID, Francisco leads core operational efforts, including the Ballston Farmers Market and public realm initiatives that enhance neighborhood vibrancy. He also provides logistical support to the CEO and collaborates cross-functionally to ensure programs are executed efficiently.
Fluent in English, Spanish, and French, Francisco combines strong technical skills with a collaborative, solutions-driven approach. Outside of work, he is an avid cyclist and chronicles his riding journey through his blog. He also enjoys dancing to Latin music and exploring history through books and documentaries
Francisco can be reached at francisco@ballstonbid.com