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Hi, I’m Sarena Kelley. Oakwood became home for my family in 2015, when my husband transitioned out of the U.S. Air Force. Like many families who choose Oakwood, we were drawn to its sense of community, walkable streets, historic homes, and excellent schools. It’s here that we’ve built our lives, raised our children, and grown deep roots.

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Life Before Oakwood

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My journey to Oakwood was shaped by unique experiences as a military spouse. Living all over the world gave me a chance to connect with people from many different walks of life. At one of our most challenging duty stations — an extremely remote base in the Australian outback — I served as Key Spouse, working closely with military leadership to support families in an isolated environment.

This role required long hours, empathy, and resilience. I learned how to listen carefully, give validity to different perspectives, and bring people together even in stressful circumstances. Those lessons still guide me today.

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Falling in Love with Old Homes

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One of my passions has always been historic preservation and restoration. In Oakwood, I’ve spent years bringing run-down or foreclosed homes back to life — not simply to renovate them, but to restore them so they can last for another hundred years.

This work is rarely the most profitable path, but it is deeply rewarding. It allows me to combine my love of design, sustainability, and history into something tangible: homes that honor Oakwood’s charm while remaining functional for modern families.

 

 

A Love for Sustainability & Design

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My background includes training in permaculture and sustainable landscape design in Australia, where I studied water conservation, soil health, and regenerative practices in challenging environments. Today, I continue that passion locally through garden design and my involvement with groups like the Garden Club of Dayton and the Oakwood Beautification Committee.

 

I see homes, gardens, and communities as living systems — all of which thrive when they are nurtured, balanced, and cared for thoughtfully.

 

 

Education & Growth

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• Began my studies at the U.S. Air Force Academy in 2009. Although life took a different direction when I became a mother, the experience instilled discipline, grit, and a deep appreciation for service.

• Continued my education in engineering and business at Penn State, Sinclair, and the University of Dayton.

• Currently pursuing a degree in landscape design through the British Academy of Garden Design.

 

As an adult learner balancing school, family, and community work, I’ve learned that education isn’t a straight line — it’s a lifelong commitment to growth.

 

 

Family & Community

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Most of all, I am a mother, a wife, and a neighbor. My family and I chose Oakwood because we wanted a place where community mattered — where people know and support one another. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed volunteering with local schools, community events, and nonprofit groups.

 

Whether it’s gardening, restoring homes, or sharing coffee with neighbors, I find joy in being part of a community that values both tradition and togetherness.

 

 

What Drives Me

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At the heart of everything I do is a simple belief: strong communities are built by listening, caring, and working together. My experiences — from military life, to restoring homes, to raising a family here — have taught me the importance of resilience, creativity, and service.

Oakwood is more than where I live. It’s the place I am proud to call home, and the community I am grateful to be part of every day.