Four States Living Magazine September 2025

THE WAY I SEE IT ...

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Robin Rogers, Ed.D.

There are words in the English language that are polite, pleasant, and perfectly fine. Words like “nice,” “good,” and “adequate” are still adjectives. But let’s be honest: none of us grew up dreaming of being called “adequate.”

Nobody’s grandmother ever leaned over at the Sunday dinner table and whispered, “Darlin’, I just know you’re destined to be adequate ”

No, the word we want, the word we deserve, is fabulous.

Fabulous has a little drama to it, a little shimmer, a little jazz-hands energy. It’s the kind of word that doesn’t just walk into a room—it makes an entrance, hair blowing in the wind that no one else can feel. Fabulous is champagne in a red Solo cup, sporting diamonds at the Dairy Queen, and attending high school football on a Friday night, with nowhere else you’d rather be. To me, fabulous is self-confidence multiplied by drive. You don’t have to be beautiful, rich, or naturally talented (although there are some fabulous people in this issue who may be those things). I believe that, with enough effort, drive, and commitment, anybody can be fabulous. Sadly, many people seem to settle for mediocrity. Mediocre is for flat Diet Cokes and off-brand potato chips, not for people.

I guess that’s why the “Fabulous 40 & Under” issue is one of my favorite projects of the year. We celebrate people who are striving to be more than mediocre, people who aren’t content just to take up space but also bring sparkle, grit, and fresh energy to our world.

And the best part? The people in these pages didn’t nominate themselves. No awkward pick-me resumes show up in my email. Every single person featured in this issue was put forward by someone else who thought, “You know what? This person is just too awesome not to be noticed.” And in my book, that’s the best compliment you can get. Think about it: being nominated means that the folks who see you every day—the coworkers who watch you juggle ten things at once, the neighbors who see you volunteering after-hours, the boss who knows you’re the reason the office hasn’t burned down—actually stopped and sent an email to my office saying, “This one. This person is fabulous.” It’s like getting a standing ovation while you’re still mid-performance.

PUBLISHER

Dr. Robin Rogers

EDITOR

Ellen Orr

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

Shane Darby

Now, fabulousness looks different depending on the lens you’re looking through. To a college professor, fabulous is keeping 30 young adults awake and engaged during an 8 a.m. government class and even managing to inspire them. To an entrepreneur, fabulous is turning a late-night idea scribbled on a napkin into a thriving business that makes Richmond Road traffic a little more bearable (looking at you, 7 Brew). To a nurse, fabulous is handling twelve-hour shifts with grace and zero tolerance for nonsense. To the third-grade soccer coach, fabulous is convincing kids to keep running in the fourth quarter, even as the humidity they are slogging through feels like soup.

That’s what makes this issue so much fun. Fabulous isn’t one-size-fits-all: it’s personal, it’s quirky, and it’s unexpected. One year, someone nominated their friend because she ran a business, led a nonprofit, and regularly baked the best coconut cake in Bowie County, all while pregnant with twins. And honestly? Sounds pretty fabulous to me.

The four states area is full of these people—people who lift this place up, who make our community smarter, stronger, and more vibrant. They aren’t doing it for applause, but when the applause comes, they sure as heck deserve it. And believe me, choosing only forty people is not for the faint of heart. Every year, when the nominations pour in, I’m tempted to simply say, “Forget it! Let’s just do the ‘Fabulous 400 & Under.’” Narrowing the nominations down is really tough. To start, we receive hundreds of nominations. Then, some people have multiple nominations. One person selected this year received 37 nominations from different people! Thirtyseven! That’s incredible.

Here’s the other thing I want you to remember as you flip through these pages: fabulous isn’t about being flashy or famous. It’s about impact. It’s about showing up, making things better, and sprinkling a little extra magic while you do it. So let’s say it together. Out loud. “Fabulous.” Doesn’t it feel good? Doesn’t it make you sit up a little straighter, toss your hair, and think, “Yes, I am fabulous; thank you for noticing”? That’s the kind of energy this issue celebrates.

For almost 35 years, Four States Living Magazine has been telling Texarkana’s stories—serious ones, funny ones, heartfelt ones. But our “Fabulous 40 & Under” issue? It’s a yearly love letter to the movers, shakers, coconut-cake bakers, and risk takers who make this community so much fun to live in.

So to our 2025 honorees: congratulations! You’ve been noticed. You’ve been celebrated. You’ve been declared fabulous—and not by me, but by the people who see you doing your thing every single day.

And to everyone else reading this issue: don’t just admire fabulousness from afar. Spread it. Be it. Nominate someone next year. Clap for your coworkers. Compliment your neighbors. Tell your friends they’re more than fine, more than good, and more than nice. Because the truth is, fabulous isn’t just for the 40 people in this issue. Fabulous is for all of us, and Texarkana has plenty to go around.

So here’s to the word itself, to the people who embody it, and to a community that keeps producing exceptional people year after year. Fabulous isn’t just a label; it’s a lifestyle—and dear readers, Texarkanians wear fabulous well. As always, thanks for reading FSLM

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Victoria Herman

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Phoebe Warren

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ellen Orr

Phoebe Warren

Do You Have a Story or a Photo?

We welcome information regarding topics of interest for future publications. If you have a story or photos that in some way depicts living or visiting in the Four States area and would be of interest to our readers, we want to hear from you. Call 903-792 -2262 or write: Editorial Department, Four States Living Magazine, 4104 Summerhill Square, Texarkana, Texas 75503. Comments are also welcome at our e-mail address: info@fourstatesliving.com

Want to Advertise?

Advertising rates may be obtained by contacting the Sales Department at 903-792-2262, writing to Four States Living Magazine, 4104 Summerhill Square, Texarkana, Texas 75503, visiting our website www.fourstatesliving.com or emailing our Sales Department at info@fourstatesliving.com

VOLUME 32 • ISSUE 9 • SEPTEMBER 2025

ON THE COVER

The annual Four States Living Magazine Fabulous 40 & Under issue has been a staple of the community for 19 years. Each September, 40 young people from Texarkana and the surrounding area are recognized for their outstanding achievements and community service, and this year is no exception. The 2025 honorees are innovative entrepreneurs, dedicated professionals, selfless public servants, and volunteers extraordinaire. Their stories of perseverance, hard work, and creativity serve to inspire readers of all ages.

See this year’s Fabulous 40 & Under starting on page 15

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

The Way I See It—An op-ed piece from the publisher 6

Exquisite Interiors: Contemporary Chalet 68 Scene About Town 11, 30, 48

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

HARVEST REGIONAL FOOD BANK, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE TEXARKANA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, HOSTED A “BUSINESS AFTER HOURS” EVENT ON SATURDAY, JULY 26TH.

Clayton Wisdom and David Ramsey Manny Western, Jimmy Anderson, and Toney Livingston

Sylvia and Mike Ingram and Jamye DeHaan Andi Darby and Callie Buckley

George Carpenter and Steven Harvey

Emily Curry, Hillary Cloud, and Justin Sutton

Camille Wrinkle, Jimmy Anderson, and Julie Furlow

Dermatology Associates LLP is Partnering with Epiphany Dermatology

Texarkana’s trusted skin care provider Dermatology Associates LLP is proud to announce its new name: Epiphany Dermatology. While the name has changed, patients will continue receiving the same high-quality dermatologic care from Dr. Jeff P. Young, the board-certified dermatologist whom they’ve trusted for over 25 years to treat conditions such as acne, psoriasis, keratosis, cysts, scarring, aging skin, sun damage, and skin cancer detection and removal.

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Epiphany Dermatology is a rapidly expanding dermatology company driven by a passion to improve access to high-quality dermatologic care in a valuesbased manner. This exciting partnership brings added benefits for patients in Bowie County and the surrounding areas. With 109 locations across 17 states, Epiphany is expanding services while keeping care local, personal, and accessible. Epiphany raises the standard of dermatology care by making clinical excellence promptly accessible to all patients in a warm and inviting environment.

Through this partnership, patients will enjoy expanded services, including advanced surgical options like Mohs micrographic surgery—which is considered the most effective technique for treating many basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), the two most common types of skin cancer. In addition, the administrative change enables broader insurance acceptance, including Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), while retaining the practice’s longstanding commitment to compassionate, community-focused care.

The clinic’s location and phone number remain the same, ensuring a seamless experience for new and returning patients. Behind the scenes, Epiphany will support the Texarkana practice with operational resources—including marketing, compliance, recruiting, and more—so the clinic team can focus on what matters most: your skin health.

To learn more, visit www.epiphanydermatology.com.

Garrett Camp, FNP-C and Jeff Young, M.D.

BAKER

MASTER SOCIAL WORKER | BOWIE COUNTY SATF WOMEN’S CENTER

Professionally, Sacoyle Baker helps women recover from substance abuse disorders. Employed at the Bowie County Substance Abuse Treatment Facility (SATF) Women’s Center, she said that she wants her clients to “see that their lives—and the lives of their families—still have meaning.”

A native of Texarkana, Sacoyle attended the University of North Texas and worked for a few years in Dallas-Fort Worth before returning to her hometown to be closer to family. It is here that she “was broken, rebuilt, and called into purpose,” she said.

In the summer of 2020, Sacoyle and her partner were happily raising their baby, Reginald III (now 6), whom Sacoyle described as “energetic, thoughtful, and curious about the world.”

“My son changed everything for me—he made me more grounded, more intentional, and more open to joy,” she shared. “The loss of his father shaped me, too. It cracked me open and showed me who I really was underneath the grief.”

In an instant, a fatal car accident made Sacoyle a solo parent—“the one thing I feared most in life,” she said.

“That grief brought me to my knees,” she shared. “I overcame it by leaning into therapy, my faith, a strong support system, and eventually the belief that I could trust myself again. Healing didn’t happen all at once; it came in waves. But, with time, I was able to turn that pain into something meaningful—both for me and for others.”

Last year, Sacoyle founded the Parenting Through Loss support group, which meets monthly at the Southwest Center. This free support group is open to all parents who are raising children after the death of a co-parent. “I do this work because I’ve lived through it myself,” Sacoyle said. “I understand the grief, the isolation, and the need for community. This group is my ‘heart work.’”

In 2023, Sacoyle graduated with her master’s degree from Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She is a 2025 Wilbur Award Adult Honoree with Leadership Texarkana for exemplary community leadership. She is a member of the Junior League of Texarkana, the Greater Texarkana Branch of the NAACP, and the Women of Texarkana Tea Party.

“What I love most about these organizations is that they embrace me as a mom, too,” Sacoyle said. “My son is always welcomed with open arms—whether we’re volunteering, attending meetings, or showing up to events. That’s the kind of community I value and hope to help build for others.”

Professionally, academically, through service, and through motherhood, Sacoyle continues to prove to herself that, “even in grief, I can still achieve great things,” she shared. Some of those great things are on a large scale—like giving a motivational speech to over 100 women earlier this year. Others may seem small but are actually huge—like Sacoyle’s garden, which she said plays a significant role in her healing.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN? “Trust you, Sacoyle.”

“My son and I started [the garden] this year, and we’ve fed others from it,” Sacoyle said. “That act of growing, harvesting, and giving is symbolic of my own healing process.”

Sacoyle hopes that her story “shows other women that, even in the hardest circumstances, healing is possible,” she said.

—Ms. Barbara Larry, my longtime counselor and one of the most impactful voices in my life

BANNON Kali

39 | MARKETING ASSISTANT | FARMERS BANK & TRUST

As she approaches the one-year mark of her employment with Farmers Bank & Trust, Kali Bannon is reflecting on the transition from small-business owner to corporate marketer.

“While it may not seem earth-shattering, one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced was reentering the traditional workforce after closing my small business,” said Kali, who founded and ran Vinyl Warehouse from 2017 to 2024. “I had been out of the corporate world for nearly a decade, and the thought of starting over was honestly terrifying. I worried that my time as a small-business owner wouldn’t translate, or worse—that no one would even give me a chance.”

During Vinyl Warehouse’s seven-year lifespan, Kali “gained invaluable experience: managing operations behind the scenes, handling my own marketing, building a website from scratch, training and supporting a team, and still showing up for my family,” she said. “[The experience] pushed me out of my comfort zone, forced me to learn on-the-fly, and gave me confidence in my ability to problem-solve, lead, and grow something from the ground up. More than just a retail craft vinyl space, Vinyl Warehouse became part of the fabric of the community.”

When Kali announced online that the craft store was closing its doors, she asked that friends and former customers keep her in mind for job opportunities. “I didn’t expect much,” she recalled, “but when a position at Farmers came up, my inbox and phone lit up with support. Within two weeks, I had a job offer.”

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING?

of This is True by Lisa Jewell

Kali said that she was riddled with anxiety on her first day at Farmers but “was immediately met with kindness and encouragement,” she said. “The team at Farmers welcomed me like family. They saw my value, cheered me on, and made me feel like I belonged. It reminded me that new beginnings can be just as fulfilling as anything you leave behind, and sometimes even better.”

Around the time that she began at Farmers, Kali and her husband, Chris, made another life-changing decision: to open their home to foster-care placements.

“With already busy lives and a full house, some people thought we were a little crazy—but we knew our hearts had room for more,” she said. “We’ve fostered four incredible children so far, and the impact on our family has been profound. It’s taught our [four biological children] firsthand about empathy, compassion, and the importance of helping others. Our home has always been a hub for neighborhood kids, so fostering felt like a natural extension of that love and energy.

“Becoming a foster parent has opened my heart and mind in new ways,” she continued. “It deepened my family’s understanding of compassion and community, and reminded me that we all have something to give, no matter how busy or full life already feels.”

Kali is a new member of Pleasant Grove Education Foundation. When “not working or shuffling kids to activities,” she enjoys hiking and reading fiction.

None

BLAIR Tara

32 | CLINICAL DIRECTOR | TEXARKANA THERAPY CENTER

Tara Blair has been most influenced by her mother, Dorie Pearson. “Watching her build Texarkana Therapy Center from the ground up showed me what it means to lead with strength, compassion, and vision,” Tara said. “She’s not only my mother but my mentor—the one who taught me to serve others with purpose, advocate fiercely for families, and believe in the impact of steady, meaningful work. Working alongside her has shaped the leader I am today and the one I’m still becoming.”

Dorie and Tara are both pediatric occupational therapists by training. Tara in part chose to follow in her mother’s footsteps after experiencing the effects of a rare neurological condition in childhood, which “affected how I processed language and communication,” she shared. “It was a confusing and isolating time—but also one that built resilience and shaped my deep empathy for children facing their own developmental challenges. It’s a big part of why I do the work I do today.”

While she still facilitates therapy directly with children, Tara’s primary role now is that of clinical director at Texarkana Therapy Center. She oversees all services, mentors a team of clinicians, and builds and implements systems that improve outcomes for clients and their families.

Tara and the rest of the team are steadily expanding TTC’s reach, an ongoing accomplishment that means a lot to her. “What I’m most proud of is being an essential part of our company’s growth and impact,” she said. “Last year alone, we provided over 30,000 therapy sessions to the children in our pediatric therapy clinic, which is an incredible testament to our team’s dedication and the lives we are helping shape in our community.”

Tara is involved with Texarkana Oaklawn Rotary Club and sits on the stakeholder board for the new physical therapy program at Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She said that she is also “involved with several missionary programs” and is “currently working with the Bread of Life Program [on] a special-needs school in Cameroon, Africa.”

Along with her husband, Billy, Tara is expecting a child later this year. “We recently found out she will be a girl,” Tara said. “We can’t wait to meet our sweet Blakely.”

Blakely will be born into the ranks of children who are cared for by Tara. “I do this work [of pediatric occupational therapy] for the kids—because every child deserves a chance to thrive and to feel seen, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential,” she said. “But I also do it for the people that stand beside them: for the incredible staff who show up every day with heart and determination, and for the community that grows stronger when we invest in its youngest members. When we lift up a child, we also uplift families, teams, and the future.”

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I have been on and planned many mission trips. I once went on a summer trip to Africa where we camped in tents in Mozambique.

BOHON Robbie

40 | CO-OWNER | BOHON ROOFING

Robbie Bohon carries the legacy of his father, who built Bohon Roofing “on hard work, honesty, and craftsmanship,” Robbie said. “We specialize in high-quality roof replacements and repairs, known for our hand-nailed installs and excellent customer service. I do what I do because I take pride in protecting families and homes. It’s more than a roof; it’s a responsibility. I’ve poured my heart into helping homeowners feel secure under a roof we built with integrity.”

Robbie assumed co-ownership in 2022. He said that, in the years since, he has seen the company grow and his father’s legacy live on. “I was honored to take coownership, and I have continued to create strong relationships, lead with integrity, and create a company culture I’m proud of,” he said.

Growing a business while “remaining present as a husband and father” has been one of Robbie’s greatest challenges, he said. “There have been long days, high stress, and lots of lessons, but I’ve come out stronger and more focused on what matters most.”

Andrea and Robbie Bohon have been married for “13 incredible years,” he shared. “Together, we’ve built a strong foundation—both as partners in life and in business. We are proud parents to three amazing children, who keep us grounded, motivated, and laughing every single day.”

Unsurprisingly, Robbie sees assuming business ownership and becoming a father as the two most pivotal moments in his life. Fatherhood, he said, “gives me purpose and pushes me to be a better man.” Being a business owner has taught him “leadership, resilience, and the value of earning one customer at a time.”

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I have a deep appreciation for quiet moments—whether it’s sitting outside before the world wakes up or reflecting in silence after a long day.

Running a family business comes with extra challenges, but it also comes with extra motivation. “Bohon Roofing isn’t just a business: it’s a legacy,” Robbie said. “Built by family, sustained by hard work, and driven by a commitment to excellence. I believe in doing honest work and leaving every job better than I found it. I’m proud of where we started and even more excited about where we’re headed.”

When he’s not on a roof or at the office, Robbie can likely be found with his family. He is a strong supporter of local schools and youth sports, and he enjoys “teaching my kids the importance of doing things the right way, not the easy way,” he said.

BRIGHT James

39 | GENERAL MANAGER AND EDITOR |

TEXARKANA GAZETTE

“Journalism is hard,” said James Bright, general manager and editor of the Texarkana Gazette “I started in 2006, and it’s become harder every year. I feel like we spend a lot of time trying to convince people why we need to exist. But it also rewards you. It connects people in a way few other mediums can, and when done properly, that connection is authentic. It is my honor to manage a staff of journalists who come to work every day, start at zero, go into our community, and report on the first draft of Texarkana’s history.”

James, who was raised near Dallas, earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Texas A&M University–Commerce. He officially began his career in news in 2011, climbing the ranks in a newspaper publication company for six years. “I worked my way up from weekly editor to regional publisher,” he said. When he was laid off in 2017, he “was shocked that my position was eliminated following a merger,” he said. He spent the next 15 months in various roles: freelancer, lobbyist, marketing specialist. Thankfully, in 2019, the Texarkana Gazette “came calling.”

“I was able to return to the field I love,” he said, “but I’d made some changes. In my year away from the industry, I invested in bettering my understanding of the digital marketing space. I learned proper SEO techniques and took several Google Ads courses. My knowledge of digital marketing is ever-increasing but only truly started because of a life-shifting event.”

James’ educational investment in digital marketing turned out to be more valuable than he could have predicted; in 2020, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, he was “given two days” to transfer the entire staff to remote work. And, in October of that year, he led “the iPad program, where we gave Gazette subscribers an iPad to read the daily paper, while still delivering a print edition to their homes on Sunday,” James explained. “It is not hyperbole to say that changing the delivery mechanism of our publication after 145 years of operation saved

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

“Loyalty is great, but don’t be the a*****e that goes down with the ship.”

—Harry

Bird, former boss

the Gazette. It has allowed us to grow in ways we couldn’t fathom prior to the iPad program, while still focusing on our core mission of serving our subscribers with objective reporting.”

James and his wife, Chelsea, have two children: Jackson (5) and Hayes (2). Becoming a parent “changed me overnight,” James said. “At that point, for 14 years, my greatest identifier and key to my persona was being a journalist. On July 10th, being a father became the most important part of my identity. There’s nothing like it. James served as president of Main Street Texarkana from 2021 to 2023. Since December 2024, he has served on the board for the Greater Texarkana United Way. He also coaches his eldest son’s soccer and baseball teams.

BUSTAMANTE Juana

37 | BILINGUAL TEACHER | PARKS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

When Juana Bustamante immigrated from Mexico to the United States as a young child, she did so without formal support systems.

“My dad was the only one who could come legally, so the rest of us had to cross the border—I still remember my mom holding our hands and praying as we swam across,” Juana shared. “That moment will forever be with me. It’s not something I usually talk about, but it’s a big part of who I am.”

She attended an elementary school without any bilingual programs. “I remember sitting in class on that first day and not understanding a single word,” she said. “It was lonely and scary. But within about three years, I learned the language, and from that moment, I knew I wanted to grow up and be the kind of teacher that made kids feel safe, seen, and supported—especially those who were just like me.”

Juana, who is now a citizen of the US, is an alumna of Texas High School, Texarkana College, and Texas A&M University–Texarkana. She began her career in education as an aide at Nash Elementary School. “From there, I knew I wanted more,” she said. “I wanted my own classroom.” She got it at Highland Park Elementary School: she worked first as a second-grade general education teacher and then moved into a first-grade bilingual position.

“That’s when everything changed,” she recalled. “I fell completely in love with first grade. It is such a foundational year, especially when it comes to building a love for reading, and I knew that’s where my heart belonged.”

Juana currently teaches a first-grade bilingual class at Parks Elementary. “Being part of opening a brand-new school has been one of the biggest blessings in my career,” she said. Members of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Juana and her husband, Juan, have two children: Maddison (10) and Sarah (4).

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING?

The Coffee Bean: A Simple Lesson to Create Positive Change by Jon Gordon

“I [teach] for my students, but also for my daughters,” Juana said. “I want them to look at me and see strength, perseverance, and love. My parents sacrificed everything to give us a better life. I want to make them proud, and I want my girls to know that anything is possible.”

CLOUD Hillary

34 | DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS RETENTION & EXPANSION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT | TEXARKANA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Hillary Cloud was born and raised in Texarkana and is “proud of it,” she shared. She also takes pride in her role at the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce, which she began in March. “I love being a part of strengthening our local economy and workforce because it strongly contributes to improving the quality of life for our community members,” she said.

Hillary attended Mississippi College, where she played on the women’s soccer team. In 2018, she returned to Texarkana to become the head girls soccer coach at Texas High School, where she herself had been a player. Though she stopped professional coaching in 2022, Hillary is still involved with the sport in an important way. In 2023, she brought the national program TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program) to Texarkana. TOPSoccer is a recreational program for children and teens with physical, mental, and/or emotional disabilities. She still leads the program as director.

“I strongly believe that every child should have the opportunity to play sports and be a part of a team,” she said.

Hillary shared that she has also led a summer soccer camp in Homer, Alaska, for three years.

“Soccer has played a huge role in forming who I am, from my time spent playing through my time spent coaching,” she said. “My time at Mississippi College on the women’s soccer team has shaped me and the trajectory of my path in so many positive ways. My time spent coaching soccer full-time was also very impactful, and I have met so many incredible people through the sport.”

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I love to cook but feel like I don’t have the time.

The greatest challenge Hillary has ever faced, she said, was losing her best friend, Trey Varner, in a tragic accident in 2013. “He was such a remarkable person and an incredible friend,” she said. “Losing him was a harsh reminder of how short life is and how important it is to be kind to everyone, live life to the fullest, and be a great friend. He was the best at that.”

Hillary is a 2025 graduate of Leadership Texarkana. She is a board member for both the Literacy Council of Texarkana and the Women of Hope and Courage. She

is also on the committees for the Alzheimer’s Alliance Tri-State Area’s Twice as Fine Texarkana Wine Festival and Temple Memorial Pediatric Center’s Dancing with Our Stars event. She and her husband, Austin, have two children: Fowler (6) and William (4).

DARBY-TILLIS II Jesse

35 | OWNER | HYPECON

Many people in Texarkana first learned of Jesse Darby-Tillis II in the spring of 2022, when he won the inaugural Pitch It Texarkana entrepreneurial contest. Jesse’s pitch was for a video game esports lounge—a project that is still “very much in the works. I’ve been spending the last three years getting the funding together, and I hope soon to make a big announcement regarding it,” he said.

Although the brick-and-mortar lounge he envisioned hasn’t materialized yet, Jesse has continued to promote esports—a form of video game competition—throughout the area. He is most proud of his work with local school districts, many of which have launched official esports programs. Jesse said that he has helped school representatives understand esports and implement the activities as official, competitive extracurriculars. He also “helped create an esports scholarship,” he said.

Professionally, Jesse is an event organizer. Through his company, Hypecon, he hosts various fun and off-beat events, such as Hype & Glory Wrestling, Spring Awakening Viking Festival, Four States Tattoo Expo, and the titular Hypecon comic convention. He said that he is passionate about providing family-friendly entertainment for young people and, to that end, hosts youth-friendly wrestling events and video game tournaments as well. He said that a percentage of all his proceeds are donated to local youthoriented nonprofits.

Jesse’s passion for youth services is reflected in the name of his company; Hype, he said, is an acronym of “helping youth progress every day.”

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

“Don’t over complicate things. You already know what you’re doing.”

—Linda K. Nolen, mother

EPPINETTE Ethan

25 | LEAD ESTIMATOR AND PROJECT MANAGER | EPPINETTE CONSTRUCTION

Ethan Eppinette is a family man through and through. He works for his father, Jason, at Eppinette Construction, which was founded in 2008. “I do this because it is what I grew up around, and it allows me to work with my family,” Ethan said. He has climbed the ranks and gained self-assurance through hard work. “I am most proud of the first job that I estimated sold, ran, and completed on my own,” he shared. “While not very big, it gave me confidence in my abilities in the business.”

Ethan was homeschooled as a minor and then attended Abilene Christian University and Dallas Baptist University, studying communication from 2018 to 2022. He also played Division I golf and had “a short stint as a professional golfer,” he said. However, Ethan sustained injuries that “made me give up the dream of making a career out of professional golf,” he shared. “I just did not

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

“Be transparent, and get ahead of problems. Do not hide them from your clients.”

—Jason Eppinette, father

have the game after these injuries.” In the last few years, Ethan has accepted that this was for the best. “I am blessed and realize that I am exactly where God has planned for me to be,” he said.

In January of 2023, Ethan married his high school sweetheart, Hannah. The two are expecting a child, Camden, due this fall.

In 2024, Ethan was elected as the District 3 Justice of the Peace (JP) for Miller County. JPs set county tax rates, determine the county budget, and pass county laws. He also teaches a Bible class for teenage boys through an area Christian cooperative. “Nothing I have accomplished would be possible without my faith in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” he said.

In his free time, Ethan loves “to hunt, fish, golf, and eat great food,” he said, “all with my family.”

Michelle

FORGY, DNP

40 | PROFESSOR OF NURSING | TEXARKANA COLLEGE

OWNER | THE CRAFTY NOOK

As a child, Michelle Forgy often watched the television show ER with her grandmother, and from there she discovered her dream of becoming a doctor. “I always thought I would be an ER doctor, just like Dr. Greene,” she said. “Instead, I am an ER nurse with my doctorate.”

Michelle first became an EMT and then a CNA. She went on to become an RN through Texarkana College. Her time as a TC student was “overwhelmingly positive,” she said, but one negative instructor marred the experience.

“I unfortunately had an instructor who talked me into quitting and told me I would never be a good nurse, even though I was an A student,” Michelle recalled. “I think there was something about me that she just didn’t care for. I dropped at her suggestion but came back the very next year. I worked hard and graduated with high honors.”

After becoming an RN, Michelle spent her “whole bedside career” in the emergency room, all the while pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing education. “I decided that education was going to be my path,” she said. “I wanted to be a safe place for nursing students to land. I want the next generation of nurses to know kindness in the classroom. Once I got my master’s, I applied at TC and have been there ever since. I owe who I am now to them.”

Becoming a nurse radically changed Michelle’s life. Upon becoming an RN, “I was able to move out of government housing,” she said. “I stopped worrying about how I was going to feed my kids, how I would get to work. I stopped overanalyzing every noise my car made. It was my actual fresh start.”

Michelle’s childhood was defined by instability. “My home was abusive and often had drugs and drug users in and out of it,” she shared. “When I was in high school, everyone was meeting with the guidance counselor and figuring out how to get into college. I am a first-generation college graduate; I had no idea how to navigate the world of college. When I went to ask about the process, I was told that people like me don’t go to college. I also tried to navigate it on my own but needed my mom’s income for the FAFSA, and she told me it was none of my business how much money she made.”

Michelle was undeterred and later pursued college as a nontraditional student. “I waited until I was old enough not to need [my mom’s] income,” she said. “Now I have

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

A Panda Express fortune cookie once told me that there were multiple paths up the mountain, but the view is the same. To me, that means that just because you don’t do something the same as everyone else doesn’t mean that you are less. We all have our own path up the mountain. Make sure to stay focused on yours.

four college degrees and couldn’t be prouder of how far I have come. It’s a big accomplishment for ‘people like me.’”

Michelle earned a doctorate of nursing practice in 2024 from The University of Texas–Tyler. Her doctoral project focused on incivility in nursing education.

In addition to her role at TC, Michelle is also the owner of The Crafty Nook, a new public craft space and store located downtown. “I love to craft so much. There is something so satisfying about making things with your own hands,” she said. “I like to memorykeep in a journal or scrapbook. I like having those memories to look back on. I don’t have much from my childhood, so I want my kids to have something when they are my age.”

Michelle and her wife have two children: Tyler (19) and Dakota (17).

FREEMAN

31 | TEACHER | PLEASANT GROVE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL

For the 2023–2024 school year, Summer Freeman was named Teacher of the Year for her campus, Pleasant Grove Intermediate School. The next year, she was named Elementary Teacher of the Year for the entire district. Only six years into her teaching career, she brings energy, warmth, and high expectations to her classroom and community.

In addition to teaching the third grade, Summer is the lead teacher for her grade level and leader of the Sunshine Committee, which “spreads cheer and positivity throughout campus,” she explained. “Along with the fun and sweet kiddos, I love my third grade team, campus, and district. I strive to put smiles on others’ faces daily and help support them in any way needed. My school is my home away from home and another family to me—teachers, admin, and students included. I love what I do as an educator and leader in my district.”

In the future, Summer will likely be looking toward other leadership positions within the district: she recently finished the principal certification program at Texas A&M University–Texarkana and will graduate with a master’s of education in educational leadership next May. “I am thrilled to add another degree to my belt and have more opportunities in education become available to me,” she said.

Teaching is not Summer’s only gig; she also works as the marketing coordinator for Freeman Landscape, a job she has done for almost 10 years. “Working with our family is a huge blessing,” she said, “and I am proud that I am able to do this job remotely while being a teacher full-time.”

Artistically gifted, Summer also supports her family through her sign- and banner-making business, Signed by Summer. “I enjoy bringing joy to others and helping create special projects and decorations for their events and special days,” she said. “This started one summer a few years ago while school was out, but it didn’t stop when school started back up, and the rest is history.”

Summer and her husband, Marshall, have two children: Wesley (9) and Madeline (4). Motherhood took on extra importance to Summer in 2020, when her own mother died.

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I joined the United States Marine Corps when I turned 18 years old.

“Losing my mom at a young age really took a toll on my life in different ways,” she reflected. “I miss her every day and wish my kids could have her as a grandmother. I continue on by remembering the great memories we shared and the positive ways she impacted my life growing up. My kids will always know their Nana, even though she may not be here with us. Losing my mom also helped me appreciate the strong women I have in my life even more so. I am incredibly grateful for the women in my corner, and the way they show up in my life means more than they probably realize.”

Summer herself is a strong woman who shows up for others— namely, her students.

“I treat my students like they are my own children,” she said, “by loving and supporting them and doing my best to ensure they learn at high levels in all aspects—academics, responsibility, and how to treat others.”

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

A “DRAWDOWN & CASINO NIGHT” EVENT BENEFITING TEMPLE MEMORIAL PEDIATRIC CENTER WAS HELD AT THE ARKANSAS-SIDE ELKS LODGE ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 7TH.

Sandy Varner and Gina Parish

Rob and Lisa Sitterley

Melanie and Charles Eaves

Bertha Shipp and Ida Alexander

Kelli Mayo and Taylor Ledford

Daniela and Samuel Tirrito with Temple Memorial’s “Kid of the Year,” Clara Tirrito, and Sam Tirrito

Holly Jones, Taylor Jones, Hunter Cannon, Angela Shepherd, Ashton Cannon, and Jason Shepherd

Ariel Edwards, Carol Pearcy, and Debbie Ibrahim

Amanda Talbot, Amy Mattasolio, and Renay and Josh McNatt

Carson Corbell and Alex Harrison with Guinevere Harrison

Chris and Kim Garner

Susan and Jeff Addison

Allison Ray and Melissa Reddin

Dennis and Vanessa Schoen with Denise and Leonard Ratley

GILLION Chelsey

39 | COORDINATOR OF BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION

TEXARKANA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

“Every child deserves at least one adult who refuses to give up on them,” said Chelsey Gillion. “I’ve chosen to be that adult.” As the coordinator of behavioral intervention at Texarkana Independent School District, Chelsey cares for struggling students throughout the district.

“Behind every outburst is a story; behind every act of defiance is a need,” she said. “I see children doing the best they can with the tools they have. I believe in teaching, not just reacting. I believe in giving children the skills they need to cope, to communicate, and to connect.”

Chelsey has worked in mental and behavioral health for over 15 years, but her first exposure to the field was even earlier: her mother, Tyna Nix, spent over 20 years as the administrator of a juvenile detention center. “Her life’s work revolved around guiding young people who had been written off by many, and doing so with firm expectations and unwavering compassion,” Chelsey explained. “Watching her lead in such a high-stakes environment taught me that, even in the toughest circumstances, love, structure, and belief in a child’s potential can make a lasting difference.”

After 12 years in clinical mental health, Chelsey changed career paths. “The classroom, particularly for students with behavioral challenges, became my purpose,” she said. “Education also runs in my family. My sister, Tiffany Studebaker, is also a teacher, and I’m constantly inspired by her heart and commitment to her students. Together, we often exchange stories, ideas, and encouragement, knowing the work we do has a ripple effect far beyond the classroom.”

Chelsey recently earned a master’s degree in special education with a concentration in behavioral analysis from Texas Tech University—an achievement that “nearly broke me,” she said. “But I stayed the course. Balancing motherhood, work, school, and a social life felt nearly impossible at times. In the end, I graduated with honors, a moment I’ll forever cherish—not just because I earned a degree, but because I proved to myself, and to my daughter [10-year-old Charleigh Rose], that we can do hard things.”

This fall, Chelsey will join the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana. “As someone devoted to making a

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

The best advice I’ve ever received came from my father, Mike Studebaker. I remember being in my early adulthood, coming to him overwhelmed by something I thought was monumental. He listened and then calmly responded, “So what?” He was reminding me that fear and doubt didn’t get to dictate my story.

difference in the lives of children and families, this opportunity is both an honor and a natural extension of my personal and professional mission,” she said.

Though concrete service is critical to Chelsey’s success as an educator, she emphasized that the intangibles are equally important.

“One of the most meaningful moments in my career was when a child said to me, ‘Thank you for always loving me,’” she recalled. “That moment is etched in my heart. For many of the students I serve, especially those who come from hard places, unconditional love and consistent support aren’t always guaranteed. Being that steady person for them is the most important work I’ll ever do.”

GRAVES Aaron

33 | FLIGHT PARAMEDIC | LIFENET AIR

Aaron Graves joined the LifeNet team in 2015, at 23 years old. “By sheer luck and the grace of God, I fell into a job as a dispatcher,” he said. “I immediately fell in love with the company and the work we did. Growing up, I was always interested in the medical field but had never considered a job in EMS.”

Aaron climbed the ranks, moving from dispatcher to ambulance EMT in 2016. By 2018, he’d earned his paramedic licensure and an associate’s degree in emergency medical services. He worked for three years as an ambulance paramedic, as required by law, before he could apply for a helicopter position—his ultimate goal. In the meantime, he obtained instructor-level certification in several disciplines. These allowed (and continue to allow) him to train new LifeNet employees as well as other community members in important skills.

“It is a love of mine to share this education with others through teaching, whether that’s in a classroom setting or teaching one-on-one while on the job,” he said. “The world of medicine is an ever-evolving field, so it is paramount that we in the field never stop learning and growing. Through the world of continuous education, we are able to stay up-to-date on all the newest and best practices.”

In 2021, Aaron’s career lifted off: he applied and was hired to work as a flight paramedic.

Only two years later, his peers nominated him for the national Star of Life Award, which celebrates “ambulance professionals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in service to their communities or the EMS profession,” as per the American Ambulance Association. Aaron was recognized in Washington, D.C., where he met with Texas lawmakers as well as other EMS providers from across the country.

“I would argue that nobody in my field does this job for recognition or accolades, but it was a great honor of mine to have this title,” Aaron said. “The best feeling of accomplishment, however, comes from every time I’m able to comfort those in the midst of their emergency.”

Aaron shares this experience of fulfillment with his wife, Brittany, who is an ER nurse. They have “two wonderful and free-spirited children,” Ellis (6) and Merrit (2).

Aaron said that working in the field of emergency medicine with his wife has been “a wonderful thing. We both understand the stressors and difficult experiences.”

Brittany is one of many emergency medicine providers whom Aaron admires. “Through my time in EMS, I have been partnered with and mentored by some wonderful and very knowledgeable people,” he said. He listed fellow paramedics, the “excellent nurses” whom he works alongside in the air, and local ER physicians who give “invaluable feedback and encouragement.”

“I believe that the people we surround ourselves with day in and day out help form who we become,” he said. “Their skill and drive motivate me to want to be the best version of myself.”

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

In 2023, I was actually able to deliver my daughter in the hospital. And since we did not find out her gender until she was born, I was the first person to know and the first one to ever hold her.

Megan

36 | EDUCATION DIRECTOR

TEXARKANA REGIONAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES COUNCIL

In her role at Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council (TRAHC), Megan Griffin works hard “advocating for our teachers, students, and schools in order to provide the best arts education and experiences for our region,” she said.

Prior to stepping into the role of TRAHC’s education director, Megan taught primary school as a classroom teacher, art teacher, and music teacher. She left that career “in order to have a more flexible position and be more present for my children,” she said. “It was a hard decision for me to make, as I loved being a teacher and felt very passionate about it. I do miss teaching at times, but I am so appreciative I am able to still contribute to education in the Texarkana area in a different way.”

Megan was born and raised in Texarkana. She attended Wake Village Elementary School, where her mother was a teacher, “which made for many fun memories,” Megan said. She shared that the teachers at Wake Village greatly influenced her, through “fostering a love of reading and learning” and “encouraging [her] strengths in a positive manner.”

Megan graduated from the University of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in communication disorders. She completed a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction at Texas A&M University–Texarkana.

Megan is married to Tyler Griffin and has two children: Turner (5) and Mills (16 months). She is a member of First Methodist Church, a Junior League of Texarkana Sustainer, and on the Walking for Williams committee.

Looking to the future, Megan is excited to see how TRAHC’s newly opened second location, called the ArtSpace, will influence the community. “It will enable us to continue to expand our reach and mission,” she said.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

My life verse from the Bible: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

HAAK Madeline

25 | DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT

WE ARE WASHINGTON

Madeline Haak works as the director of community outreach and engagement for We Are Washington. “We Are Washington provides free programs and enrichment for firstthrough seventh-grade students,” she said. They also house “eight other nonprofits rentfree, to create a collaborative hub that empowers youth and strengthens families across the Texarkana area.”

A career in nonprofits was perhaps not what Madeline had in mind when she was acquiring a bachelor’s in biology at the University of Central Arkansas, but she has found that the work is sustaining and enriching.

“Each time I coordinate an opportunity for our kids to experience something for the first time, share an encouraging word with them, or witness their personal growth, I feel a great sense of achievement and fulfillment,” she said. “The kids at We Are Washington have transformed my perspectives, strengthened my spiritual life, and given me such happy memories that I will cling to for the rest of my existence.”

Madeline is also a devoted volunteer: she is the treasurer-elect of the Junior League of Texarkana, an ambassador for the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce, and a 2025 graduate of Leadership Texarkana. She is also on the Partnership for the Pathway committee. Through these endeavors, Madeline has forged new friendships in her hometown.

“Connecting with others and forming lasting relationships based on mutual care and concern for this town and its people has been something I’ve found to be so heartwarming and fulfilling,” she shared. “It is encouraging to witness the passion of others, and it gives me the push I need to stay the course and remember why I do what I do.”

Madeline, who holds a master’s degree in communication, also connects with likeminded people through managing The Texarkana Odyssey, a for-profit social media endeavor she undertook with friend Jasmine Cree in 2024.

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I worked on a dairy farm milking cows while I was in college.

“The Texarkana Odyssey was made to highlight places to enjoy food, fun, shopping, and adventure in the Texarkana area and bolster local support for small businesses,” she said. “We have used our platforms on Facebook and Instagram to make so many new connections with wonderful people who are investing in our community by making sure it has lots to offer.”

Madeline sustains herself through faith, therapy, and fitness. “Exercise has been a savior to me through the most turbulent of times,” she said, alluding to the tragic loss of her mother, Stephanie, to metastatic breast cancer seven years ago. After living with cancer for eight years, Stephanie died in August 2018. Madeline was 18.

“My mom was the strongest person I’ve ever known, a true warrior,” she said. “I headed off to college a little over a week after she died, and it was so difficult to leave behind a grieving family and move in with strangers who had no idea of my circumstances. I honestly think I am still navigating this loss, as it took me until two years after her death to begin processing my grief.”

Stephanie’s legacy inspires Madeline to seize every day. “I routinely remind myself of the way [my mom] fought to live and spend extra days, minutes, and seconds with us,” Madeline said. “I ask myself the question, ‘How would she want you to live?’”

Madeline has also been blessed with a “second mother”—Shawn Edmonds, who was Madeline’s English teacher in high school. “She is the shoulder I cry on, the woman I can depend on to give me great advice and lead me as she would her own child,” Madeline shared. “She is my guardian angel on this Earth.”

HARDIE

31 | IT FACULTY | UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS HOPE-TEXARKANA

Brittni Hardie, a born problem-solver, fell in love with IT and cybersecurity after working in IT at a credit union as a young adult. She went on to work at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana as a computer support technician. However, Brittni quickly realized that she wasn’t content just fixing other people’s problems; she wanted to empower others to prevent issues and fix things themselves.

At UAHT, a mentor encouraged Brittni to become a teacher at the college. “That support meant everything,” she reflected. “Having someone in your corner who sees your potential before you do—that kind of influence lasts forever. I try to be that person for my students now.”

Brittni launched the college’s cybersecurity program in 2022. Through that program, students can earn certificates of proficiency in cybersecurity, which can help them find employment as cybersecurity professionals.

“Watching [the program] grow and seeing students walk across the stage and into their new careers has been one of the most fulfilling chapters of my life,” Brittni said.

Another major way that Brittni has empowered local students is through spearheading the first GenCyber Summer Camp in the region this past summer. “Over two weeks, nearly 30 middle- and high-school students from our local area came together to learn about cybersecurity through hands-on labs, team challenges, and guided instruction,” she explained. “Many had never considered a career in technology before, but by the end, several told me they wanted to pursue IT after the experience. That’s what it’s all about: opening doors, sparking curiosity, and helping young people see that they can thrive in this field. Our region is full of talented kids with a natural gift for tech. They just need the opportunity to explore it.”

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I once entered an archery competition at the last minute and ended up beating my husband. He’s still not over it and tells me that if it had lasted longer, he would have beaten me.

In addition to her full-time faculty role at UAHT, Brittni also adjuncts at UA Cossatot. Independently, she offers graphic design services and cybersecurity training to organizations in D.C., Baltimore, and Cleveland; this work “keeps me creative and connected beyond the classroom,” she said.

In 2022, Brittni was selected by Governor Asa Hutchinson to serve as the Southwest Arkansas representative for the Data Science and Computing Ecosystem (ArDSCE). “We host meetings with local business leaders and educators to help close the gap between workforce needs and academic programs,” she explained. “It’s important to me to be a part of building stronger bridges between education and opportunity in our region.”

Brittni knows firsthand the value of education; she obtained her bachelor’s and master’s degrees as a young mother, while working full-time, in order to pursue the career she desired.

“I believe that success isn’t about having the perfect path; it’s about perseverance,” she said. “I didn’t grow up with everything handed to me, and I didn’t always know what direction to take. But I showed up, asked questions, leaned on mentors, and kept moving forward. I want to continue creating opportunities for others to do the same.”

Brittni is married to Cody Hardie. Her son, Bentley is 10. For the past two years, she has served as the president of VIPS (Volunteers in Public Schools) at Waggoner Creek Elementary.

HARDY, PMHNP

38 | PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER SOUTHWEST ARKANSAS COUNSELING AND MENTAL HEALTH CENTER

“There’s a verse in Psalms that speaks about weeping in the night, but joy comes in the morning,” said Claire Hardy, a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Southwest Arkansas Counseling and Mental Health Center (SWACMHC). “There is no guarantee of avoiding sorrow, but the Lord promises that there will be joy again.”

Claire knows this firsthand, as she suffered the death of her husband, Matthew, in 2022. “Our families, friends, and this community were a major reason I was able to endure this hardship,” she said. “There were so many beautiful blessings woven throughout the strife. God continued to demonstrate his mercy, love, and grace.”

This lived experience helps Claire in her work in psychiatric medicine. “I love the complexity of the field,” she said. “I enjoy aiding clients in fostering autonomy. The mental health challenges that my clients face can be extraordinarily isolating. I work with them to identify and obtain goals, provide solutions, and improve outcomes. Everyone is touched by mental health in some way, and I’m honored to be able to be a part of my clients’ healthcare journey.”

Claire holds two bachelor’s degrees (one in health science education, one in nursing) and a master’s degree in nursing, all from the University of Arkansas System. She said that her greatest professional accomplishment was earning her graduate degree and becoming board-certified as a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner.

Nursing is a family profession for Claire: her mother and both of her sisters are also nurses. “Through their enormous breadth of experience, I have had the privilege of watching them impact countless lives,” she said.

Her paternal grandmother, Mary Ulmer, was also a huge influence. “She lost three

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I swam with great white sharks in South Africa.

children and still managed to exhibit love, joy, goodness, and an unshakeable faith in the Lord,” Claire shared. “She was the definition of resilience. She is my ‘why’ for my work with the Alzheimer’s Alliance.”

Claire serves on the committee for the Alzheimer’s Alliance Tri-State Area’s Annual Twice as Fine Wine Festival. She is also a sustaining member of the Junior League of Texarkana.

Along with her partner, Josh McWilliams, Claire has one “bonus son,” Hudson (10), and an infant, Wright. “I wasn’t sure if children were in the cards for me,” she said. “They are such a gift.”

L.J.

38 | SCOUT EXECUTIVE AND CEO | BSA CADDO AREA COUNCIL

Born and raised in Central Arkansas, L.J. Henson is new to Texarkana. He moved here in 2023 to step into his role as scout executive for the BSA Caddo Area Council.

“When I started the job in 2023, there was obviously a lot to learn, especially my first time being in the CEO role,” he said. “Our council president at the time, James Henry Russell, was probably the best thing to happen to me. He taught me a lot about being in the seat and all the things that come with it, good and bad. I believe the development over my first two years with him is the most important training and development I could have.”

This mentorship has been especially significant for L.J., who lost his father in 2018.

“One of my biggest obstacles has been growing and developing in the [BSA] organization without having my dad there,” he said. “My dad began working at 13 years old and never stopped. No matter the health problems that he endured, he was always working. Growing up, I didn’t really appreciate him constantly being on me about working. As I have gone through this journey, I haven’t had him there to give advice or be proud of me during my career. I have had to surround myself with great people that have been able to push me to who I am today.”

Perhaps the most important of these great people is L.J.’s wife, Jessica. Together, the couple has three children: Grayson (18), and twins Tate and Tilly Grace (4).

L.J. is a past board member for Leadership Texarkana. He is a member of the Wilbur Smith Rotary Club and serves as an usher at Williams Memorial United Methodist Church.

“I have always been one to want to make an impact in the community,” he said. “That can look different of course, but I think the opportunity is daily. Every day we can make a positive impact on our community.”

In his free time, he enjoys cooking, playing golf, and watching the Arkansas Razorbacks.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

My first scout executive, John Carmen, [taught me] that if you had good employees, you make sure you take care of them. He did a lot for my family, and you don’t realize it at the time. But now as a scout executive, I see the need to make sure you take care of your employees, and they feel appreciated.

HERNANDEZ, FNP Alaina

27 | FOUNDER | MI CLÍNICA HISPANA

Alaina Hernandez opened Mi Clínica Hispana in February 2025, after recognizing a constellation of unmet patient needs in Texarkana.

“With the invaluable support of my supervising physician, Dr. John Baugh, my family, and many mentors, I was able to establish a clinic that addresses a critical healthcare gap in the Hispanic community,” she said.

Originally from Shreveport and raised in Atlanta, Texas, Alaina completed her bachelor’s in nursing at Texas A&M Univeristy–Texarkana and has “called [Texarkana] home ever since,” she said. Last year, through Chamberlain University, she earned a master’s degree and became a family nurse practitioner.

“I genuinely love helping people take care of their health,” she said. “Being a source of support for my patients brings me immense joy, and I thrive on the opportunity to continue learning every day.”

WHAT IS SOMETHING

MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I’m a fraternal twin (I’m the shorter one!).

Alaina was raised speaking English; she taught herself Spanish as a teenager, while working at a Mexican restaurant. “I became fascinated by the language,” she said. “I dedicated my summer to studying and became conversationally fluent in just six months.”

This fluency is invaluable in Alaina’s daily work at Mi Clínica Hispana. “I believe I’ve been given the gifts of language and healing for a reason,” she shared. “I’ve always dreamed of owning a clinic, and I trust that God’s plan is unfolding.”

Alaina’s faith sustains her through the significant challenges of running a new clinic. “Learning to manage operations, navigate insurance credentialing, develop policies, and build patient trust has been an incredible learning curve,” she said. “There are days when no patients walk through the door, despite all the hard work.” She credited her resilience to her mother and father.

“My parents, who became teen parents at 16, have been my greatest influences,” she said. “They instilled perseverance and realism in me. Despite the odds, they raised four successful children: a dentist, a physical therapist, a nurse practitioner (me), and a professional working in the cryptocurrency industry.”

Alaina and her husband, Hugo, have four children: Evelynn, Santiago, Thomas, and Zoe.

HIGH Jordan

37 | TEACHER | TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL

English teacher Jordan High wants her high school students to understand the power of narrative.

“I believe every student has a story, and every story matters,” she said. “Writing is my personal revolution. I create worlds that reflect both the one I survived and the one I dream of building. Writing and teaching quite literally saved my life.”

Before becoming a teacher, Jordan worked in Dallas as a loan officer, a job in which she “survived multiple shoot-outs, facing life-threatening situations I still can’t fully process,” she said. When she returned to her hometown of Texarkana in 2015, it was to attend to her chronic depression and “rebuild” her life; “I lost myself in Dallas,” Jordan said. “Losing everything financially and emotionally in my 20s gave me the audacity to build a beautiful life in my 30s.”

Through “surrendering to God, reclaiming my voice, and deciding I was worthy of the life I dreamt of,” Jordan turned her life around. She began writing and selfpublishing mystery novels, under the nom de plume Fae James. Then, in 2019, she became a mother. “Everything changed after James was born,” she said. “His light was the turning point.” That year, she also graduated from Texas A&M University–Texarkana with a bachelor’s degree in English. In 2020, she began teaching; launching her career at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic “taught me patience, adaptability, grace, and how to laugh through the chaos,” she said.

In 2021, Jordan faced great loss when her grandfather and father both died within a two-week period. “I found my way back from the emotional trauma through

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING? Atomic Habits by James Clear and A Flicker in the Dark by Stacy Willingham

faith, motherhood, and storytelling,” she said.

Teaching and writing are not the only ways Jordan practices storytelling; she is also a motivational speaker who specializes in teenage suicide prevention. Supporting the wellbeing of young people is a top priority for her.

“My greatest achievement came from a former student who told me, ‘You made me feel like I wasn’t invisible,’” Jordan recounted. “That’s the real paycheck. Guiding a new generation of thinkers and scholars is my proudest accomplishment. I teach to make a difference, to empower my community, and to be the spark that lights up my students’ potential.”

Jordan is actively involved in Texarkana ISD’s Leader in Me Program, as a district co-lead and the high school culture coordinator. She is also a member of the Junior League of Texarkana and Hickory Hill Baptist Church.

HUDSON, MD, MSPH

35 | ASSOCIATE PROGRAM DIRECTOR

UAMS FAMILY MEDICINE RESIDENCY PROGRAM

Dr. Marjorie Ellen Hudson, who goes by Ellen, moved to Texarkana in 2017 to complete her residency training at UAMS Southwest. “I’ve stayed here ever since,” she said.

A family medicine physician, Ellen is now the associate program director for the residency program that trained her. She also has an academic appointment as an assistant professor from the UAMS School of Medicine. “I love helping resident physicians learn how to care for patients and be the best doctors they can be,” she said. “I feel very proud each year at graduation to see the physicians that are graduating our residency program go on to have their own careers.”

Ellen is also passionate about her own medical practice. “For some families, I have provided medical care for multiple generations of a single family, even up to four generations in some cases,” she said. “Because I am a family physician, I see patients from birth through adulthood, so I have the unique ability to take care of families across generations.” She practices at the UAMS Family Medicine Clinic, the Fouke Health and Wellness Center, and CHRISTUS St. Michael Hospital.

Ellen follows in the footsteps of her father, who was a physician himself. “I loved tagging along with him to work and hearing all his stories and looking through all of his medical textbooks,” she said. She earned her undergraduate degree from Tulane University, where she studied biology and public health. She went on to obtain a master’s of public health in tropical medicine, also from Tulane. Afterward, she completed her medical education at the University of Mississippi.

When they moved to Texarkana in 2017, Ellen and her husband, Nick, were expecting their first child. Now, the couple has three: Johnny (8), Cecilia (4), and Lydia (5 months). The Hudsons recently purchased a historic home in Texarkana and are working to restore it.

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I can play the French horn.

JOHNSON Rikia

25 | STUDENT | TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY–TEXARKANA

Rikia Johnson is following in the footsteps of her late great-grandmother, Willie J. Ray, who devotedly served as a local city council member (representing Ward 2 in Texarkana, Texas) for 20 years.

“As a small child, I attended so many city events, council meetings, and groundbreakings with my great-grandmother and little sisters,” Rikia said. “Ever since, I’ve been looking forward to giving back.”

Born and raised in Texarkana, Rikia is a student at Texas A&M University–Texarkana, where she founded the campus Rotaract Club and serves as president. Associated with the Wilbur Smith Rotary Club, the TAMUT Rotaract Club is one of the largest campus organizations. Rikia said that it will serve as the model club for the district.

“Rotaract is like my baby, so for me, this is huge,” she shared. “They will watch everything we do in order to build other successful Rotaract clubs on other college campuses in the district.”

Rikia has been recognized on campus and throughout the community for her leadership skills. In addition to pursuing school full-time and leading Rotaract, she is also the president of the TAMUT Student Veterans Association. These are active commitments.

“I never send either of my organizations out to events without me,” she said. She explained that when either of her clubs partners with other organizations, she is there. “I am present for [everything we do], from small projects like painting for Opportunities to major projects like The Big Event.”

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

This is now my motto, and I will forever live by it. After one of my first formal meetings with my Rotaract team, I stayed behind with my advisor, Dr. Brian Matthews. After expressing my nervousness to him, he said, “They clapped when you walked in. They respect you. Let’s not act like Rikia Johnson is not Rikia Johnson.” Now I walk different.

Rikia also works at Home Depot. Her “most important job,” however, is raising her 3-year-old daughter, Kehlani. She credits her “huge village” with helping her stay afloat. In 2022, the village was especially active in Rikia’s life, as she recovered from a life-changing trauma.

“I had a freak accident,” she said. “I lost a finger from a firework accident on July 4th, 2022. I was so worried because I had an 8-month-old baby at the time and was a single parent, but everybody pitched in to help.” Rikia said that she endured the challenging season with encouragement from loved ones and from her Christian faith, which grew during that time.

Looking ahead, Rikia aims to finish her bachelor’s in criminal science and begin applying to law schools next spring.

“My great-grandma always taught us that people can take anything from you but your education,” she said.

KLINK, RN

38 | CLINICAL SIMULATION COORDINATOR AND LPN FACULTY UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS HOPE-TEXARKANA

Ashton Klink began her medical career as an EMT, and she continues using those skills as a volunteer firefighter and first responder. Her day job, however, is that of nursing instructor at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana, as well as with the Arkansas Rural Nursing Education Consortium. She became a nurse in 2012, after “[experiencing] firsthand the difference between a nurse who truly sees you and one who’s simply clocking in,” she shared. “I do what I do because I’ve been the patient, twice.”

At age 19, during her second semester of college, Ashton found a lump under her left arm and became severely fatigued. She was diagnosed with stage 4 anaplastic large cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. “I was considered terminal,” she said. “The treatment was experimental.” She began chemotherapy, and about 10 weeks later, miraculously, she was declared cancer-free.

“The second time came years later,” Ashton shared. This time, in 2018, a lump appeared under her right arm—and that wasn’t all. “A PET scan—meant for my chest and abdomen—caught the edge of my uterus and revealed a second silent threat: it was endometrial cancer.

“What followed was a battle—not just with my body, but with the healthcare system,” Ashton continued. “I had to assert my right to choose, push back against pressure to undergo chemo again, and demand to be treated on my terms. With help from doctors who listened, and faith in divine guidance, I underwent surgery and was declared cancer-free once more.”

The “battleground” skill os sellf-advocacy that Ashton learned as a patient is one of many experiential skills she tries to teach her students.

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING?

Five Days at Memorial: Life and Death in a Storm-Ravaged Hospital by Sheri Fink

“My mission is to ensure that our students don’t just graduate with knowledge, but with confidence, empathy, and the ability to advocate—for their patients and themselves,” she said. “Cancer taught me empathy that I now pass on to my students.”

Ashton and Darrell are the proud parents of Max (11) and Alena (10). The couple struggled with infertility (likely due to Ashton’s chemotherapy treatments) for four years, but the morning that Ashton was scheduled to begin fertility treatments, she inexplicably tested positive for pregnancy. “That moment— raw, joyful, and surreal—was the beginning of our journey with our son, Max,” she said. “It reminded me that God’s timing is never late, even when it feels unbearably slow.”

Mere months after Max’s arrival, Ashton discovered she was pregnant again, which was “a joyful, unexpected blessing that reminded me once again of God’s perfect timing,” she said.

Ashton is a volunteer firefighter, first responder, and administrator with the Satellite & Garland City Volunteer Fire Department. She is a member of VFW Post 4562 Auxiliary, the Marine Corps League Detachment 1149, and Foundation Baptist Church. She also volunteers for the Young Marines Texarkana.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

A RIBBONCUTTING CEREMONY WAS HELD AT THE NEW LOCATION OF SARAH BERRY, CPA, ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 7TH.

Bradley and Sarah Berry

Hannia Martinez  and Britain Koller

James Bramlett and Derrick McGary

Erin Radford and Erin Blackburn  Davis McDaniel and Jakob Martin Lindsey and Micah Roach

Morgan Pritchett and Sarah Langehennig

Dr. Robin Hickerson, Berkley McKnight, Chloe Wardlaw, and Hillary Cloud

Katie Shuffield, Haylee Heflin, and Colin Barnett

Michelle Seifer and Melissa Rose

LaTisha Nichols, Bailey Willis, and Sallie Alsup

LOEHR

36 | DIRECTOR | MILLER COUNTY OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

“I’m passionate about helping people and problem-solving, and my position allows me to do both,” said Travis Loehr, director of the Miller County Office of Emergency Management. “All I want to do is help people. If someone needs help, I don’t care who they are or what they need; I’ll do my best to help them however I can.”

In his role, Travis acts as the county’s fire service coordinator, floodplain manager, environmental officer, and 911 coordinator. Since assuming the position in 2024, he has modernized county emergency communications with eDispatch, organized a county-wide emergency operations center, expanded the county’s K-9 search capability, and updated around 90% of 911 addresses, sharply reducing response times. These improvements have been forged through teamwork and connecting with others.

“Everyone plays a role in emergency management because emergencies affect everyone, so being able to work with other groups, help meet each other’s needs, and learn from each other is incredibly important,” Travis said. “I’m always trying to make more connections and see how we can all work together to support our community before, during, and after emergencies.”

Travis’ passion for emergency management manifests outside of work hours. He is the leader of the Miller County volunteer dive team and has been a member of the Mandeville Volunteer Fire Department since 2008 (serving as chief from 2019 to 2024). Through these efforts, he has met innumerable friends and had life-affirming experiences. He has also suffered major loss.

“In 2021, I lost my best friend in the line of duty while he was responding to an emergency,” Travis shared. “Lucas Stephenson was the assistant chief of Mandeville VFD, and he was my brother. Losing Lucas pulled the ground out from under me.”

Lucas’ legacy of generosity and bravery lives on in his friend, who strives to honor him every day.

“If I see something that I know Lucas would’ve done, like helping someone, I’ll do it,” Travis said. “I recently deployed with a volunteer organization to aid search and recovery efforts along the Guadalupe River in the Texas Hill Country after the devastating July 4th flooding, and I did so for two reasons: one, because I knew it was the right thing to do, and two, because I knew that Lucas would’ve jumped in the truck to go help without hesitation.”

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING?

The Silent Sea by Clive Cussler and Jack Du Brul

From 2012 to 2022, Travis was in the Marine Corps Reserves. “The Marines put into words the core values that mean everything to me: honor, courage, and commitment,” he said. “These core values are what I live by, and it makes me emotional to talk about them because they’re so important to me.” He is also the Miller County Republican Committee’s district committeeman.

Travis and his wife, Megan, have three children: Jaden (9), Owen (5), and Brooklyn (7 months).

MACKEY Christian

33 | MANAGER | HOPKINS ICEHOUSE

Hopkins Icehouse is a cornerstone of downtown Texarkana. So is its manager, Christian Mackey, who has worked at the locally-owned tavern since 2018.

According to Christian, his position “kind of fell into [his] lap.” After six years of managing retail stores, Christian was approached by Hopkins owners, Dave Jones and George Dobson, about the job. “I said, ‘Let’s do it!’” Christian recalled.

“With the help of my staff, the transition went as smoothly as possible. [The owners] showed me the ropes of business and took a chance on me seven years ago. Ever since then, I have done my best to make Hopkins what it is today and help with the growth of downtown Texarkana.”

Christian is a board member for LNK TXK. “We focus on networking, followed closely by giving back to the community with various nonprofit partnerships,” he said. “We volunteer, help gather supplies, and make financial contributions. In short: we have a good time while giving back.”

Having a good time while giving back is Christian’s speciality, both personally and professionally. Off-the-clock, he regularly helps out with downtown events. At work, he strives to “cultivate an atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome and at-home,” he said.

Working in tandem with Christian’s fun-forward attitude is his work ethic, developed throughout his formative years. “My mother and father instilled all of their greatness into me,” he said. “I have often said, ‘If you ever hear me complain about my parents, understand that I am the problem.’”

Christian also credited his experience in BSA as formative. “I am an Eagle Scout,” he said. “Not very many people know how much time and effort go into becoming one. Much of what I learned in Scouts shaped me into the person I am today.”

While some might overlook the achievement of running a successful restaurant, those in the industry know what it takes to survive. “Being a thriving restaurant in the Texarkana area is a feat in itself,” Christian said. “So many come and go throughout the years, and it’s truly a blessing to continue the level of business we have for so many years. ‘Blessed to be relevant’ is something I like to say.”

When not “slinging beer or running food,” Christian said he most enjoys spending time with his wife, Samantha.

WHAT IS SOMETHING

MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I like anime. Naruto is my favorite. I have [characters] Kakashi and Jiraiya already tattooed on my leg with plans for a full leg sleeve.

MARTIN Casey

26 | OPERATOR | ARTEX DIRTWORKS

YOUTH DIRECTOR FOR THE SOUTH PROSPECTS

ARKANSAS PROSPECTS BASEBALL CLUB

Casey Martin’s primary occupation is “dirt work.” As an operator for ArTex Dirtworks, which provides land-leveling and land-clearing services, Casey finds satisfaction in creating a strong foundation for the future. “There’s a sense of accomplishment when I build a pad or something along those lines,” he said. “It makes me feel good knowing that I just built a foundation for somebody to start their lives on.”

Laying solid foundations is also a key part of Casey’s other job—that of baseball coach and youth director for the Arkansas Prospects, an elite baseball club. Casey himself played for the Prospects before joining the Arkansas Razorbacks in 2018. In 2020, he was selected in the MLB draft by the Philadelphia Phillies. He played for various teams within the Phillies system until 2024, when he was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers, where he competed as a Biloxi Shucker.

Casey’s transition out of his professional athletic career has been challenging. “I spent my entire life being on the road for nine to 10 months out of the year playing a game we call baseball,” he said. “When I retired, it was hard making the transition from being on a pedestal to being a normal person with a normal job. There really isn’t much that can prepare you for a normal life when you lived so long in a certain routine.”

Despite the growing pains, Casey does not regret his decision, which he made in service of his family: his wife, Kamryn, and their toddler daughter, Evie Paige. He has also loved giving back to the Prospects, an organization that supported him from age 12 to 18. He coaches the 11U majors team. “My goal is to give kids the opportunities that I had growing up and share the knowledge I learned,” he said. “I think what makes me most proud is being able to share what I know about the game of baseball and watch what I’ve passed along help transform players into well-mannered, respectable young men. That’s the ultimate goal I try to instill into all the kids I work with.”

Casey said that the biggest influences in his life are his parents and brother. “My family gave up everything to make sure I had what I needed to succeed, and that’ll never be forgotten,” he said. In addition to his biological family, he also gives credit to Prospects owner Andy Menard. “He is like another father to me,” Casey said. “He took me under his wing. My parents couldn’t really afford [the costs associated with competitive youth baseball], but he saw something in me and paid for all my stuff through the summers. I traveled the world with him playing baseball while my parents had to stay home and work to pay the bills. I really owe him everything, but he’d never take anything. He’s always looking to help people and a strong man of faith.”

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I’m pretty musically talented. I can play the guitar, drums, and piano.

MATTHEWS JR.

| TEXAS STATE TROOPER

“Most people are surprised to find out that I’m a goofy, down-to-earth guy,” shared Timothy Mathews Jr., who goes by “T2” to his close friends and family and Tim to everyone else. “I might look serious on the outside, but I love to laugh.”

Tim is a native of Cary, Mississippi, a small town with a population of 225. He graduated from Jackson State University in 2017 and then moved to Austin to attend the Texas Highway Patrol Academy. “I left everything familiar—my daughter, family, and hometown—to attend the Highway Patrol Academy,” he said. “I was one of the few cadets who couldn’t go home on weekends because I lived over nine hours away. That was tough.”

Later that year, upon graduating the program, he was assigned to work in Texarkana. “I was closer to home [than I had been in Austin], but I had to start fresh—no classmates, no nearby family,” he said. “Thankfully, my highway patrol family, fraternity brothers, and community members welcomed me like one of their own, and that made all the difference.” Tim said that he chose this line of work “because I’ve always felt called to serve and protect our communities, and to help remove threats to public safety.”

As a state trooper, Tim participated in 2019’s controversial “Operation D-Town” in Dallas: three months of governor-ordered patrols to combat an increase in crime. In 2020, at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, he worked at border and airport checkpoints and was part of the Hurricane Laura Response Team. From 2021 to 2023, he worked on “Operation Lone Star,” an ongoing initiative that aims “to deter and repel illegal crossings, arrest human smugglers and cartel gang members, and stop the flow of deadly drugs like fentanyl into our nation,” as per the office of the governor. In 2023, he acted as a member of the Austin Violent Crime Taskforce.

In July 2023, Tim was promoted to the recruiting division. This role “has given me the incredible opportunity to travel across Texas—and even beyond—to connect with talented, passionate individuals and encourage them to join our ranks,” he said. “What means the most to me is being able to go back to my hometown and open doors for young people who may not even know what’s possible yet.”

Outside of work, Tim trains for and competes in powerlifting competitions. “I’ve reached personal records I never dreamed of—like bench pressing 605 pounds,” he said. Tim, who has competed at the state, national, and international levels, currently holds three world records in the bench press: 600.6 pounds in the Raw Iron Powerlifting League, 556 pounds in the World Police Games, and 534 pounds in the International Powerlifting League. He holds multiple state records as well.

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I can never say no to cheesecake, lemon pie, or pound cake—especially if it’s homemade like my mom’s!

Though he gives his all at work and the gym, Tim’s true priority is his 10-year-old daughter, Taylor, who still lives in Mississippi. Tim said he makes frequent trips back to The Magnolia State to see her and the rest of their family. He hopes that his successes in law enforcement and powerlifting inspire Taylor.

“My story speaks to anyone who’s ever come from a small town with big dreams,” he said. “Growing up in the Mississippi Delta, I didn’t have a lot of exposure to opportunities—but I never let that define me.”

Previously, Tim served as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army National Guard for four years, where he was part of the military police. He is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

MILLER Amy

40 | EAGLES TEACH PROGRAM SPECIALIST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY–TEXARKANA

Growing up, Amy Miller was the child of a military professional. Her husband, Josh, was the child of a pastor. Both families moved often for work. Amy and Josh wanted more stability for their own children, Ross (14) and Riley Anne (11).

“We found that sense of permanence and community here in Texarkana,” Amy said. “Today, our children know no other home, and we are incredibly grateful to raise them in a loving, supportive community that has truly become our village. Texarkana is where we’ve planted roots, and it’s the place we proudly call home.”

Amy previously worked as a reading interventionist at Pleasant Grove ISD. She is certified as an elementary teacher and principal. Last year, she was hired at Texas A&M University–Texarkana as the Eagles Teach Program Specialist.

A grand-funded initiative, Eagles Teach is a program that “creates a dual credit pathway for high school students who aspire to become teachers,” Amy explained. TAMUT partners with Texarkana College, Liberty-Eylau ISD, Pleasant Grove ISD, and Texarkana ISD to enable high school students to graduate with associate’s degrees in education. “This positions them to enter directly into our educator preparation program at TAMUT and, as early as four semesters after high school graduation, step into the classroom as highly equipped, well-supported, certified teachers,” she said.

This is Amy’s first job in higher education. “When I joined the university, I had no prior experience with dual-credit programming or the inner workings of higher education,” she said. “I know it was a leap of faith for the faculty in the education division to hire someone with a background as an elementary reading interventionist to lead the development of such a monumental initiative. However, I embraced the challenge wholeheartedly.”

Under her leadership, the program’s enrollment has increased from 55 to 171 students. “That means 171 future educators are being prepared to return to their own community as certified teachers—an incredible gift not only to the students themselves but to our local school districts, communities, and future generations,” she said.

Currently in her third semester, Amy is pursuing a doctorate of education from TAMUT. She is a parent volunteer at Pleasant Grove ISD.

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

My dad was stationed at Area 51 in Nevada when I was a toddler. He worked undercover as an airplane mechanic on the then–top-secret stealth fighter. There are still many things he is not allowed to share from his time there.

MOULTON Claire

39 | AGENT | YOUNG & THORNTON INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES

Claire Moulton is a Texarkana transplant, though she is as involved in and committed to Texarkana as any Ark-La-Tex native. Raised in Charleston, Missouri, she moved to Texarkana in 2014 for a job with Nestle, uncertain if she would stay in the border city permanently. Less than a year later, a blind date with her now-husband, David, cemented her future in the area. “That’s when I knew Texarkana would be my new home,” she said.

Claire is committed to improving and giving back to the community she now calls home. She serves on the Alzheimer’s Alliance Tri-State Area’s Twice as Fine Wine Festival and volunteers for the Brian Harris Foundation Golf & Pickleball Tournament, as well as the Randy Sams Outreach Shelter. She is also a Junior League of Texarkana sustainer. Professionally, Claire works as an insurance agent at Young & Thornton Insurance and Financial Services “to help protect people, families, and businesses by making sure their specific needs are met,” she said. “Whether they are looking for auto, home, commercial, or health insurance, I take pride in working with my clients and meeting their needs.” She has been in the insurance business since 2016.

Claire makes time for leisure, too. “I work hard so I can play hard,” she said. “I love to laugh and have fun.” She reflected that the unexpected loss of her father in 2016 taught her to “not take life for granted.” A competitive tennis player in her youth, she still enjoys the sport as an adult. She also loves traveling to visit out-of-town loved ones, and spending time near bodies of water. Her husband “makes life fun,” she said, adding that David is always up for a road trip or another adventure. ”Marrying the right person will determine 90% of your happiness or misery, so choose wisely!” she advised. The couple has two dogs, a senior Boston terrier named Honey and a goldendoodle named Remy.

Claire holds a bachelor’s degree from Arkansas State University, where she was a member of the Chi Omega sorority. She even dressed as the sorority’s mascot, the owl. “I was awesome at it,” she laughed.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

“It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up.”

—Freddy Showmaker (father)

RICHARDS Tyler

37 | CITY MANAGER | CITY OF TEXARKANA, ARKANSAS

For the last year, Tyler Richards has worked as the city manager for Texarkana, Arkansas. Prior to that, he inhabited the role of public works director, from January 2018. Though he is nearing a decade as a government employee, Tyler always imagined he would work in the private sector, as a civil engineer.

A licensed professional engineer, Tyler holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from The University of Texas–Tyler. “Interest in my father’s career as a carpenter, coupled with my passion for problem-solving, drove me toward civil engineering and construction,” he said. After graduating from college, Tyler returned to his hometown of Texarkana, where he was hired by CLB Engineers. As a project engineer, he worked “on a wide variety of projects, ranging from municipal infrastructure to private industrial plants,” he said.

After almost five years with CLB, Tyler “accepted the role of public works director, in an effort to support the community that has ultimately shaped my life,” he said. Six years later, he was asked to take on the role of city manager.

“Although I was reluctant, my love for this community led me to accept the position,” Tyler said. “I could not be more proud to be entrusted with the service to our citizens, operational management of the City, and the economic development required to grow our City into a better community.”

In addition to his governmental work, Tyler also runs his own consulting practice, Richards Engineering.

Personally, Tyler is a member of the Texarkana Arkansas Baseball Association. “I have a passion for the sport of baseball and thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to better our local sports,” he said. In his role as city manager, he interacts regularly with various local organizations, including AR-TX REDI and the Texarkana Metropolitan Planning Organization.

Tyler and his wife, Brittany, have three children: Tucker (7), Riley (5), and JennaKate (1). “Jesus Christ and my family are everything to me,” Tyler said. “Without them, I would be lost in this world and would certainly not be in the position I am in today to make a significant impact on our community.” As a family, they spend their free time outdoors: camping, fishing, hunting, and at the baseball fields.

Tyler declined to share any professional accomplishments. “I prefer not to focus on or draw attention to past achievements, but rather focus on my next project to advance our great City,” he said. “I am currently working on what I believe to be one of the greatest things to happen to the City of Texarkana, Arkansas, in its history, and I hope to share it with this community within the next year.”

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I am quite the introvert and have extreme anxiety toward public speaking. I actually dropped out of my speech course at Texarkana College after giving my first speech, thinking, “I will never be able to publicly speak.” Little did I know, my career would be full of social events and public speaking. I will admit that it has become easier, but I will always have to deal with some level of social anxiety. The key to overcoming it is preparation and courage.

ROBERTS Megan

34 | GRAPHIC DESIGNER | A BETTER CREATION AND BILL’S MOVERS

As a graphic designer, photographer, and even dog trainer, Megan Roberts specializes in imagining an outcome and then making it real. “I love working on creating designs for clients and seeing if we can make what they imagine come to life,” she said. “One of my most favorite things is hearing a client say, ‘That’s exactly what I wanted!’”

Megan came to love graphic design as a student in high school. As yearbook editor, she was given “free reign with the design” by her teacher, she said. “I didn’t realize it at the time, but that class, along with [other computer classes], nurtured my desire to work in the art field.”

To that end, Megan attended the University of Arkansas–Little Rock, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic design and photography. “This has allowed me to open my own business,” she said, referring to her photography business, Megan Roberts Photography.

When not in front of a computer screen or behind a camera lens, Megan is training her five competitive Labrador retrievers. “We compete in dog sports such as Barn Hunt, Fast Cat, NASDA, Dock Diving, and recently started to train in UpDog,” she said.

One of Megan’s dogs, Hulk, has additionally been training in “live find”—a search-and-rescue skill that allows dogs to find people within a given area.

“We have been training with the Bowie County Sheriff’s Office Search & Rescue Team since about March or April of 2024,” Megan shared. “In October of 2024, we joined the team officially. It is my hope to have Hulk ready to start working towards his certifications in October of this year. I have met some amazing people working with the team, and I have loved this opportunity to help my community.”

Megan is also a member of Genoa Central Alumni Association and The Kennel Club of Texarkana.

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING?

The A Court of Thorns & Roses series by Sarah J. Maas

Brittaney

ROSSUM

33 | DIRECTOR OF LENDING OPERATIONS | RED RIVER CREDIT UNION

INSTRUCTOR | UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS HOPE-TEXARKANA

At age 19, while studying at Texas A&M–Texarkana, Brittaney Rossum began her banking career at Red River Credit Union as a part-time teller. Over the last 14 years, she has climbed the ranks and is now the director of lending operations for the credit union.

“I became a full-time teller and then transferred to a business teller position before applying for the management trainee program,” she explained. “In that program, I worked in almost every department in the credit union before landing in the consumer lending area. The program allowed me to learn and understand how to best support our members.”

While growing in her career, Brittaney was reaching personal and academic milestones as well. In 2016, she married her now-husband, Shawn, gaining two stepdaughters, Channyng and CourtLon. In the next few years, she became mother to sons Sawyer and Sutton. As she stepped into life as a wife and parent, Brittaney also returned to school to pursue a master’s degree in business administration from TAMUT.

“I was a full-time employee while being a mom and student,” she recalled. “There were many late nights of kids’ dance lessons, tee ball games, studying, and writing papers. I am thankful to have had such a good family support system between my husband and parents—especially my mom.”

Brittaney’s hard work paid off. Being promoted into her current role at RRCU represents her “greatest achievement thus far,” she said. “I am more than excited for [this job] and have worked hard to accomplish [the promotion].”

Additionally, Brittaney is beginning her third year as an accounting adjunct instructor for the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana. “In both of my positions, my biggest blessing is that I am there to help people, no matter what stage of life they may be in—whether establishing

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. My dad was my biggest supporter and the biggest “Girl Scout” dad there ever was.

their first loan or determining what they want to be when they ‘grow up,’” she said.

Brittaney is the president of the Wright Patman Chapter of Credit Unions, which she explained is “a meaningful group where all local credit unions come together to teach the credit union movement and make meaningful contributions to our local community.”

It is clear that Brittaney is devoted to her career with RRCU. “I continue to push myself to grow and learn from my superiors,” she said. “[Going from] being a part-time teller at the bottom of the organizational chart to being a director proves that I am up for each new challenge. I will continue to push myself to be the best employee that I can be.”

RUSHING-HILL Haley

30 | COORDINATOR OF MARKETING AND CREATIVE SERVICES

TEXARKANA COLLEGE

Haley Rushing-Hill discovered her love of graphic design as a teenager.

“I owe so much to Rebecca Potter, Clint Smith, and the entire publications program at Texas High School,” she said. “They gave me the chance to truly thrive and helped me discover a passion I didn’t even know I had. Before that, I hadn’t really considered careers like graphic design, but their program opened my eyes to a whole new world of creative possibilities.”

Born and raised in Texarkana, Haley moved to Memphis after high school to attend Rhodes College, where she studied art and design. Upon graduation, she moved to Little Rock and worked at a marketing agency. It was also during this period that Haley experienced a tremendous loss that changed her life.

“A year after graduating college, I lost one of my best friends to breast cancer,” she said. “I was newly married and just starting my career, and her passing hit me harder than I could have imagined. With encouragement from my husband and support from my employer, I eventually started therapy. I wish more people talked about how transformative it can be. If someone else out there needs to hear it: there is absolutely no shame in therapy. Life can be hard, and taking care of yourself is one of the best things you can do for the people you love.”

In 2020, Haley and her husband, Jacob, returned to their hometown, and Haley was hired into her current role as Texarkana College’s coordinator of marketing and creative services.

“I cannot express how amazing it is to work for a place that changes the lives of people in our community, and I get to witness that change every day,” she shared. “Our students are doing all the hard work, but I am delighted that an ad I made might be the reason they started thinking about college. I truly enjoy design and marketing, but our students are why I love what I do.”

Though Haley hadn’t previously imagined herself working in education, she has found that it is an ideal placement for her. “I never anticipated how perfect this job would be for me; I have been able to continue my work in graphic design but expand my skill set to include the additional areas of marketing,” she said.

Alongside learning on-the-job, Haley has also pursued further formal education: in 2024, she completed a master’s degree in strategic communication from American University. While pursuing this degree and working full-time, she also became a mother.

“There are countless ways to be a great parent, but I am personally proud that I was able to demonstrate for my son that being a parent doesn’t mean your personal or professional life has to end or plateau,” she said. Haley and Jacob’s son, Leo, is now 2 years old.

Haley is a board member for the Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

My high school photography instructor, Clint Smith, had a lot of sayings, but the one that stuck with me the most was, “You’re only as good as your last assignment.” I’ve carried that with me throughout my professional life as a reminder not to phone it in—even when I’ve already had some great wins. It pushes me to give every project my full effort and attention. But that mindset has shaped me personally, too. It’s a reminder to be present and intentional in my relationships, making sure the people I care about feel valued every time we connect.

I

SMITH

35 | EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT | BODCAW BANK

Patia Smith “fell in love with numbers and problem-solving at a very young age,” she said. “I knew that if I ever had the opportunity to go to college, it would be for accounting.”

Patia was eventually able to attend college—and, in fact, now holds an MBA from Henderson State University. She earned her associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees all while parenting and working full-time.

Prior to her career in banking, Patia worked at Smiles of Arkansas. Dr. Robee Carter “gave me the management experience and the encouragement to go to college for the first time,” she said.

The team at Bodcaw has similarly supported Patia’s educational pursuits. While working as a branch manager, she completed both her undergraduate degree in accounting as well as her MBA. “Bodcaw Bank has supported me tremendously throughout my college career,” she said. She also credited her family, who “encouraged me to stay strong and helped me study.”

Patia’s immediate family consists of her spouse, Justin Smith, and her children: 17-year-old Lexi Hyman and 10-year-old Cole Smith.

“The greatest challenge that I have faced would be becoming a mother at 18 years of age,” Patia said. “My beautiful daughter, Lexi, was a light in my life that I didn’t even know I needed at the time. She shaped the woman I am today. I had to grow up fast and be successful to provide for her. My children are, hands down, the biggest blessing God has ever given me.”

Lexi will graduate from Genoa Central High School next spring with an associate’s from the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana. She plans to enroll at U of A in Fayetteville in 2026.

Patia is now the executive assistant to Market President Cody Deal. She is currently working toward her CPA licensure.

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

want to go to law school. Texarkana needs to get a law school program ASAP!

During her free time, Patia enjoys watching Cole play baseball. She is also a member of LNK TXK and “would love to see everyone at our next gathering,” she said.

STEPHENS Lanse

35 | ENGINEER | COOPER TIRE REAL ESTATE AGENT | BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE INFINITY YOUTH PASTOR | CITY CHURCH TEXARKANA

Lanse Stephens wears many professional hats. “What pays the bills,” he said, “is my career as a tire engineer at Cooper Tire.” He has worked at Cooper since 2014, when he was hired as a chemist. Over the last 11 years, his title has changed, and his skills have grown. His proudest moment at Cooper so far was when he became a “Lean Six Sigma Black Belt,” which results from completing a project- and team-management certification through the American Society for Quality. “It was years of work and progress towards a singular goal that was rewarding to finally see come to fruition,” he said.

Another career milestone for Lanse was earning his real estate license. Since January of this year, Lanse has been contracted with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Infinity. Years ago, his father advised him to “‘buy land; they’re not making any more,’” Lanse recalled. “He said that you can always build more of anything, but you can’t make more land appear out of nowhere.” This inspired Lanse to “believe in the power of investing in real estate.”

This jack-of-all-trades has a third job: he is also youth pastor at City Church Texarkana. Lanse said that his love for youth ministry began when he was a student, attending the youth group at Trinity Baptist Texarkana. “I found lots of friends and accepted Christ during my time there,” he said.

Lanse has previously volunteered for Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, Runnin’ WJ Ranch, Grace House, and Tacos 4 Life.

Though free time is scarce, Lanse spends as much time as possible having fun with his family. He and his wife, Jaci, have two children: Sylas (7) and Kade (5). “My kids are one of the greatest teachers I have ever had,” Lanse said. “They teach me a lot about love, having fun, new ways to make a mess, and patience.”

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I am super competitive, especially when it comes to playing card games. I also collect playing cards from places I visit. I have some from all over the world, including China, Niagara Falls, Hawaii, Alaska, and Colorado.

TALLEY, DDS Josh

39 | DENTAL DIRECTOR | SPECIAL HEALTH RESOURCES

“From the age of 12, I knew that I wanted to be a dentist,” said Dr. Josh Talley. “The longer I have been around this profession, the more I see how rewarding it can be. I learned early on that dentistry is much more than just working on teeth; it’s helping patients improve their quality of life through their oral health and getting to know them on a personal level.”

Josh is a general dentist and currently serves as the dental director for Special Health Resources, a healthcare system throughout Northeast Texas that provides affordable primary care, dental care, behavioral health services, pain management, and infectious disease screenings and treatments. Josh operates out of the local office, named Texarkana Care Clinic.

“To date, my greatest occupational achievement is the continuous impact I get to have in our community,” he said. “Working for Special Health Resources has allowed me to provide dental services to so many who would otherwise not receive care.”

Throughout his career, Josh has also provided free dental care through Mission of Mercy Clinics in Texas, Arkansas, and Illinois.

Josh and his wife, Ashley, have been married for 16 years. They have two children: Cooper (9) and Abigayle (7). Over the past few years, Josh has coached and assistant-coached for Texarkana Soccer Association, Pleasant Grove Youth Athletics (baseball), Red Lick basketball, and the Dixie League (baseball). He also helps with his daughter’s softball team. “Nothing is more rewarding than seeing kids have fun and helping them grow their confidence and reach their potential,” he said. Josh also serves in the Kids United Ministry at First Baptist Church.

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I have a first-degree black belt in taekwondo.

THORNTON Jordan

39 | BRANCH MANAGER | TEXANA BANK

Jordan Thornton has over 10 years of experience in banking, and she is passionate about the industry—but, more than that, she appreciates that her current role allows her to practice leadership.

“One of the things that makes me most proud is watching my team grow both personally and professionally,” she said. “Seeing them develop a genuine passion for banking and take pride in what they do is incredibly rewarding. It reminds me why I love what I do and why leadership matters.”

For two and a half years, Jordan has worked as the branch manager for all three local Texana Bank locations. She was hired in this position after an eight-year hiatus from her career, during which she acted as a stay-at-home parent. Prior to her at-home years, Jordan worked at Century Bank from ages 21 to 28. Her mentors were then—and remain today—David Hicks and Kevin Huff.

“I was nervous about returning to banking after taking time off to be a stay-at-home mom; it felt like starting over in many ways,” Jordan reflected. “But I was incredibly fortunate that the same mentors who guided me when I was new to banking believed in me once again. They took a chance on me to lead a team, and their support and encouragement have meant everything. With their guidance, I’ve been able to grow, regain my confidence, and truly flourish in this role.”

When not at work, Jordan spends her free time with her husband, Jeremy, and their five children, who range in age from 7 to 13. Managing her obligations as both a professional and parent of five is no easy feat, and Jordan is quick to say that she does not do any of it alone.

“I’m a proud mom who’s fortunate to have a strong support system, a village of people who stand behind me and my family,” she said. “Their encouragement and reliability have played a key role in helping me balance both my personal and professional life successfully.”

Jordan is a 2025 graduate of Leadership Texarkana. In her free time, she enjoys watching her children play sports. “It’s one of my favorite ways to spend time,” she shared.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

“Stop worrying.” —My mom

TORRANS Claire

29 | DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS | DOT’S RENTALS & SALES

Three generations of women run Dot’s Rentals & Sales, a bedrock business of Texarkana that has provided construction equipment and event rentals throughout the region for almost 40 years. Claire Torrans, representing the youngest generation, joined the team officially in 2023, though she has technically “been in the business since I was a week old,” she joked. “When my mom [DeMita Torrans] went back to work after having me, they set up a nursery in her office so she could keep working alongside Dot [Williford, Claire’s grandmother]. Growing up in the store with her taught me the value of hard work, being hands-on, and always taking care of your customers. It’s just always been a part of who I am.”

Claire saw herself in business from a young age and pursued a bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing from the University of Arkansas. While studying and after graduation, she worked in management and marketing at companies in both Texas and Arkansas, including the corporate offices of Cavender’s and Sam’s Club. In 2022, she began working for the family business remotely; in 2023, she returned to her hometown to become the director of operations.

“I do what I do because I’m passionate about carrying on the legacy of my grandmother in our business,” Claire said. “I love finding ways to streamline operations, support our team, and serve our customers and community with excellence.”

Stepping into this position was no easy feat; as a woman and the granddaughter of the founder, Claire knew she needed “to earn people’s trust, learn the industry inside and out, and prove I belonged . . . especially in the world of equipment and construction,” she said. “I just kept showing up, asking questions, and putting in the work. I’m still learning every day, but I’ve grown a lot by staying true to who I am and not being afraid to figure it out as I go.”

Claire is greatly inspired by Dot. “Her boldness, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit not only shaped our family but also opened doors for generations of women in our community and across the

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

While it might not be traditional advice, my dad [Robert Torrans] has always said, “I have faith in you.”

He’d say it every time he asked me to take on something that felt nearly impossible. Hearing those words pushed me to figure it out, even if it meant thinking outside the box or taking a different path. That quiet confidence he had in me taught me to believe in myself and showed me that, with enough determination, there’s always a way to make it happen.

country,” Claire shared. “She built this business from the ground up with a whole lot of heart. Every day, I do my best to represent what she’s built and the values she passed down: treating people right, working hard, and staying committed to our community.” Claire derives immense pride and gratitude from her work. “Being part of a generationally woman-owned business means the world to me,” she said. “I never imagined the day would come when I’d get to work alongside both my mom and my grandmother, and now soon my brother as well. We’ve worked together to bring more structure to the business, modernize our operations, and set things up for long-term growth, not just here in Texarkana but beyond.” Claire serves on the National Young Professionals Board for the American Rental Association and the Texas Rental Association State Board.

WALKER Shaun

38 | FOUNDER | BURNING BUTTERFLY COLLECTIVE CASE MANAGEMENT ANALYST | AETNA

You may know Shaun Walker from the news. In March of this year, she and her family experienced a life-altering trauma when a drive-by shooter fired over 60 bullets into her Liberty Eylau home in the middle of the night. Shaun and her 10-year-old daughter, Jade, were both shot, and Jade sustained severe brain injuries.

“It was an experience that brought both emotional and spiritual challenges we are still navigating,” Shaun said. “In addition, navigating the complex threshold of corporate healthcare as an African American woman has come with its own unspoken barriers.”

This tragedy was not Shaun’s first experience with the inequities in the healthcare system. In fact, her professional life has been devoted to addressing these inequities. As a case management analyst for Aetna, she helps people “navigate complex care systems, understand their conditions, engage in preventative care, and access vital resources—especially in areas impacted by social determinants of health—all with dignity and efficiency,” she said.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

“You don’t have to account for how someone treats you—only how you treat them.”

—My grandmother, Genell, whose wisdom has guided me through some of life’s most defining moments

Additionally, Shaun is the founder of the Burning Butterfly Collective, a public and mental health consulting collective. “I created Burning Butterfly out of a deep understanding of the urgency and necessity of public health,” she said. “While reading textbooks during my graduate studies, I quickly realized that the disparities I was analyzing on paper were playing out in real time—right in the very spaces I call home. I didn’t want to wait for someone else to bring the solutions. I wanted to become one of the architects of that change.”

In both of her professional roles, Shaun explained, her goal is the same: “to build a bridge between pain, misunderstanding, and progress through health education, compassion, and advocacy.”

Shaun earned an associate’s degree in behavioral science from Texarkana College in 2020. In 2022, she completed a psychology bachelor’s program at the University of Texas–Tyler. This year, she attained a master’s in health science with a concentration in public health, also at UT–Tyler. She said she plans to pursue a doctorate in public health, with the goal of becoming a professor. “I aim to pour into the next generation of change-makers the way past educators and mentors once poured into me,” she said.

Shaun is a mother of “four amazing human beings,” she said. “Each one has shaped and sharpened me into the woman I am today. They are my why and my anchor.”

Shaun is an active member of the Junior League of Texarkana as well as the Women of Texarkana Tea Party, a group of “multicultural and multigenerational women of Texarkana coming together to make a positive impact on the local needs of our community.”

While Shaun and Jade are still recovering from their horrific experience of gun violence, Shaun is determined to be empowered by the event.

“Through it all, it was unwavering faith, the collective strength of our community, and the rooted prayers and wisdom of both past and present elders that sustained us through the storm,” she said. “That season didn’t just test me—it revealed what I’m made of and deepened my clarity about what I’m here to do.”

MORRISS WRIGHT Allison

32 | MUSIC AND THEATRE TEACHER | ST. JAMES DAY SCHOOL

“St. James is the place I did not know I needed,” said Allison Morriss Wright, music and theatre teacher at St. James Day School. “I am honored to work in an environment that has such a love for their students and each other. We work as a team to educate the minds of tomorrow.”

A member of the theatrical Morriss family (her cousins run Silvermoon Children’s Theatre), Allison has loved the stage since she was a child. She earned a bachelor’s in theatre arts from the University of Mississippi and later a master’s in theatre from Texas A&M University–Commerce. She also holds a master’s in curriculum and instruction from Texas A&M University–Texarkana.

In her fifth year at St. James Day School, Allison said that she does the work she loves. “I get to watch my students grow not only academically but as human beings,” she said. “I get to provide them with a safe and welcoming environment to explore their creativity and gain confidence in themselves. My students are my reason.”

The highlight of the school-year calendar for Allison is the annual spring musical. Under her instruction and direction, all St. James students in grades 1 through 8 participate in a large-scale theatrical and musical production, complete with elaborate student-built sets and costumes. Last year, they performed The Little Mermaid Jr. at the Pleasant Grove Performing Arts Center.

“They blow me away every time,” Allison shared. “It is such a thrill and privilege to watch these amazing kids shine onstage or behind-the-scenes. Their willingness to collaborate—with me and each other—helps make the musicals spectacular. Their hard work and dedication is something to be admired, and I could not be prouder to be their teacher.”

Off-campus, Allison enjoys reading, baking, and spending time with her family. She said that her husband, Brady, “is the yin to my yang. He is the calm to my storm.” Her mother, Rita Morriss, is her “best friend, confidant, and safe place,” she said. “She has taught me to not take anyone in your life for granted and to be kind even when it is difficult.”

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

My former high school theatre teacher, Debby Sutton, told me, “Good teachers can punt!” Things happen. Sometimes the lesson that you have spent hours—even days—preparing doesn’t land. As a teacher, when your students aren’t understanding, you have to change gears and go in a different direction or start again.

EXQUISITE INTERIORS

CONTEMPORARY CHALET

Jeanna and Mike Rogers of Texarkana, Arkansas, have spent many years ensuring that members of their community have beautiful spaces to call home. Rogers Equipment & Construction is a well-known name in the area for being a family-owned and -operated business that can handle all levels of building and remodeling. In need of a special place to unwind and relax from their hard work, Mike and Jeanna constructed a serene spot on Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs, Arkansas. This 4-bed, 4.5-bath lake house is a beautiful fusion of Mike’s skill and Jeanna’s fun-loving personality.

story by PHOEBE WARREN photography by SHANE DARBY

The front of the house is immaculate—a modern beauty bursting with curb appeal in its chic white walls, black roof, and big vertical windows. The landscaping is well-maintained, with an island of foliage in the middle of the driveway and more shrubbery near the front door, accented by pops of color from blooming florals.

The inside space is a whimsical blend of two distinct interior design styles: chalet and contemporary. Chalet interior design style evokes a sense of cozy, rustic charm inspired by traditional alpine mountain homes—a popular choice in cabins and lake houses. It emphasizes natural materials like wood and stone, incorporates plush textiles, and often features a central fireplace or wood-burning stove. There is certainly evidence of such natural elements in the faux fur and hide rugs in several rooms, the driftwood furniture (including a console table in the entrance and a dining table by the kitchen), the natural wood-beam accents in the ceilings, and the large fireplaces in the living area and outside patio space. However, no one would dare to call this space rustic. It is a champion of all things contemporary, with sleek lines, a completely modern kitchen, an open layout, and trendy accents.

EXQUISITE INTERIORS

Jeanna’s vibrant personality shines through the space with printed pillows and rugs, colorful art, and eclectic accent pieces. A golden faux deer head with glasses and a pipe hangs over a stylishly tiled floor-to-ceiling fireplace. There are subtle homages to the popular horse-racing track at Oaklawn: a photo of Mike and Jeanna in their derby best appears in the entryway, and a small horse statue and colorful print of a jockey sit on the bar counter. Sprinkles of nautical accents here and there allude to the beautiful blue waters of Lake Hamilton, visible from every angle in the kitchen, dining, and living spaces through the numerous large windows and glass doors. “The storms are beautiful to watch here,” Jeanna said. “You can see the lightning coming down from the mountains in the distance and over the water.”

When it isn’t raining, the sun fills the rooms with warm, natural light. The Rogerses combat the late-afternoon heat on all of the glass with automated shades expertly installed by Nash-based company TXK Custom Exteriors. In fact, the Rogerses utilized many Texarkana-area companies in appreciation for their home community, with countertops from Alpha Stone TXK, flooring and tile from the Design Center at Red River Lumber, ironwork from P&C Fabrication, and appliances from Lafferty’s Home Center.

Beyond the central areas, more hidden gems are to be found. An office behind the entryway is decked out in a human-face motif, with an accent wall covered in abstract line-art faces, a big painting with a blue face, and more abstract line-art faces on the vases sitting on the desk. The result is a delightfully fun workroom that you can’t help but smile at. The primary bedroom on the other side of the living area is neutral in comparison to the rest of the interior, offering a quiet place to slumber. The attached bathroom maintains this neutral color palette but offers its own brand of flair in the ornate light fixtures, large soaking tub, and luxurious circular seating in the middle of the room.

Although the interior decor is so thoughtfully curated, Jeanna admits that the couple’s favorite space has to be the backyard patio area. With an outdoor kitchen and seating area, a sparkling infinity pool that overlooks the lakeside views, and colorful decor—including a painted wine barrel by Christopher Bachers, courtesy of the Twice as Fine Texarkana Wine Festival— this outdoor space offers a place to entertain family and friends, including the Rogerses’ four grandchildren, who love to lounge and play here. “We actually enjoy this space just as much in the winter,” Jeanna said. “We have the fireplace going, bundle up, and watch movies here.”

This lakeside retreat has many different components that come together to create a perfect escape for Mike and Jeanna—a place where they can relax and watch the waves. The Rogerses are looking forward to many more years spent here, creating memories with their loved ones and leaving behind a special place for their children to inherit and cherish as well.