New Board Chair
Emily Deaton
Emily Deaton is the Chief Executive Officer of jetAVIVA, one of the world’s largest private jet sales organizations by total annual transaction volume. Since joining jetAVIVA in 2019, she has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth, first as Vice President of Sales and then as Chief Operating Officer before assuming the role of CEO.
Deaton began her aviation career with Embraer, gaining deep industry expertise before transitioning to jet sales leadership. She holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations from the University of Florida and brings a dynamic, client-focused approach to the business aviation sector.
Beyond her leadership at jetAVIVA, Deaton is Chairman of the Board for Angel Flight West, supporting critical access to medical transportation through volunteer aviation. She also serves as a Board Member for IADA’s Aircraft Exchange, contributing to the advancement of ethical and transparent aircraft transactions within the industry. Most importantly, Emily and her husband Kevin are the proud parents of a busy, blended family of seven kids—keeping life as exciting at home as it is in the skies.
Emily says, “It’s an honor to serve as the new Board Chair for Angel Flight West. Our mission of delivering health and hope through donated flights is more vital than ever, and I look forward to working alongside our incredible team and Board to expand our reach, strengthen partnerships, and enhance the resources that allow us to serve even more passengers in need.”
Emily has been an AFW Board Member since 2023, and we’re thrilled to have her serve in this leadership role.
New Board Members
Rich Conti
Richard T. Conti is a private equity operating partner and community service professional. He splits his professional time between advisory work with San Francisco Equity Partners, and law enforcement work as a Deputy Sheriff (Reserve) in the patrol division of the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office. In addition to law enforcement work, Rich’s community service has included multiple board terms with Angel Flight West, a volunteer compassionate aviation organization. Rich is also an active volunteer pilot with Angel Flight West. His aviation experience includes twenty years of Command Pilot service in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, the uniformed volunteer component of Coast Guard forces.
Rich’s aviation credentials include a Commercial Pilot certificate with single-engine, multi-engine, and instrument ratings as well as an SIC type-rating in the North American B-24 bomber. In connection with his law enforcement work, Rich recently qualified for a Part 107 sUAV (small drone) license.
Rich says, “Angel Flight West has been an important part of my life for almost thirty years. Our mission is exceptionally compelling, and it is so gratifying to be part of the volunteer team that delivers help and hope through free flights for those in need. I am delighted to extend my service to Angel Flight West by rejoining the board of directors. This is a dedicated and committed group of people offering essential resources and support to the mission, and I’m honored to be selected to serve with them.”
Welcome back to the board, Rich!
Chris Little
Chris Little is the Chief Marketing Officer of Desert Jet Group, LLC, a premier full-service business aviation company in Palm Springs, CA. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Long Beach. Chris is a member of the board of directors for both the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce and the Coachella Chamber of Commerce, where she collaborates with elected city officials to support local businesses and residents. Additionally, she has been a passionate volunteer for more than six years with AFW, effectively raising funds, promoting awareness, and fostering valuable partnerships for the organization.
Chris says, “I am truly honored and excited to join the board of directors for Angel Flight West. This role will enable me to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals who urgently need access to vital medical care and essential services. Being part of an organization dedicated to compassion and community support aligns with my passion for making a difference, and my skills can contribute to expanding its mission. I look forward to collaborating with like-minded and passionate individuals who share this commitment to improving the lives of those in need.”
We’re excited to have Chris’ ongoing support in this new capacity.
Thank You to Our Former Board Members
AFW extends its heartfelt gratitude to former board members Trevor Moody, Zachary Spear and Mark Wolper (previous board chair) for their service. Their unwavering dedication to the gift of flight has enabled AFW to reach new heights, and we’re grateful for their guidance and commitment to our cause.
