2024 Dancing Stars of Columbus

What a thrill and honor to be part of the 2024 Dance with the Stars event to raise needed dollars for continued advancements in eradicating Alzheimer’s! As I watch one of my dearest friends grieve the premature cognitive and physical decline of her father and see the unspeakable impacts this disease has on its victims and those who love them, it adds so much weight and importance to my opportunity to take action in this fight.

A native of the best small town in America, LaGrange, Georgia; a proud graduate of Auburn University; and a now long-time resident of Columbus – relocating here to serve in both radio and television news back in 1989 – experiencing strong community and seeing outreach in action is all I have ever known. Getting involved and caring for others are core for me, driven by my deep faith in Jesus Christ and His command to love and serve others and in obedience to Luke 12:48: “…When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.

I have certainly been blessed with much: my husband Ralph, who has dedicated 34 years and counting serving on the front lines of the Columbus Police Department, protecting and serving this community; my oldest daughter Olivia and son-in-law Tyler, residents of Marietta, one who cares for babies in dire need as a nurse in the CHOA/Egleston NICU, and the other in construction engineering for a large travel station company; and with my youngest Laura Beth, who loves her city of Jacksonville and serves in wealth management for Citibank. In addition to my incredible family, I have had the absolute privilege of being part of the Synovus Bank family for now 28 years, working alongside the best people in the best culture of any workplace in the world. Synovus has helped me become a better person, not just a better employee.

My dance skills…well, they’ve aged not as well over the years. But putting myself out there for this great cause is worth any risk of embarrassing all who love me. I attended my first DWTS event this past year to cheer on everyone, especially my awesome colleague Troy Jackson, and was just amazed at the passion and skill of all who performed with purpose. I am praying I’ll channel some of my 13 years of tap and ballet dancing and that my rusty rhythm will somehow find its way back to my feet and legs. Mostly, I look forward to fun, fellowship and making an impact in an area of great need.

So, let’s get this party started – and, of course, I humbly ask for your contributions to my efforts to defeat this awful disease.