Levi Ponder

age: 36 | Vice President, Lending | Commercial National Bank of Texarkana

Caring and compassionate, Levi Ponder has firsthand experience transitioning from one position to another within a company. He began working as a part-time teller at Commercial National Bank and is now the Vice President of Lending.

“As a lender with Commercial National Bank, I get the opportunity to work with all types of individuals and businesses in the Texarkana area,” he explained. “I especially enjoy helping our customers achieve their financial goals whether it be starting a new business, growing their existing business, or building a new home, just to name a few.”

Levi’s greatest personal achievement was accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, followed by marrying his wife of 11 years, Elizabeth. He enjoys spending his free time with Elizabeth and their three children, Luke, Lincoln, and Emerson. For fun, he likes golfing, hunting, working out, and doing yard work. “My oldest son, Luke, has recently started going to the golf course with me, so it has been fun seeing him learn the game,” he admitted. 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“IF YOU TELL SOME- ONE YOU ARE GOING TO DO SOMETHING, THEN DO IT!” — JIMMY PONDER, LEVI’S FATHER

Levi is a member of the Oaklawn Rotary Club and helps out with the club’s Flag Project. He helps put out flags on the six “flag” holidays throughout the year. He also serves as a board member of the Four States Fairgrounds as treasurer and is also a board member of Temple Memorial Rehabilitation Center.

When asked what Levi sees himself doing in the next 10 years, he replied, “I hope to have continued to grow in my banking career.” Well said from someone who enjoys what he does and looks forward to continuing on his chosen career path. 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I enjoy waking up every morning at 3:45 a.m. to workout. It’s a great way to get the day started!” 

Claire Northam

age: 26 | Senior Accountant | Holliday, Lemons & Cox, P.C.

Senior accountant Claire Northam does tax and audit work for Holliday, Lemons & Cox, P.C. What she really enjoys about her job is that regardless of the engagement, each client presents a different challenge. “Accounting is a profession, like many others, that is constantly changing,” she explained. “Every year, new laws are passed and new best practices are issued. It keeps it interesting, keeps me on my toes, and I love that I get to keep learning.”

Claire currently serves as president of the Texarkana Chapter of the Texas Exes, The University of Texas at Austin’s alumni organization. This group hosts events for local alumni and Texarkana area students attending the university. Last year in Junior League, she served on the Mistletoe Fair Committee as Merchants Co-Chair, and this year she is Tickets Co-Chair. “It’s a whirlwind, but it’s rewarding to see the fair be financially successful since that means we get to help the Texarkana community that much more,” Claire acknowledged. 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“YOUR PARENTS ARE THE ONLY PEOPLE IN LIFE WHO KNOW YOU’RE SPECIAL. FOR EVERYONE ELSE, YOU’LL HAVE TO PROVE IT.” – QUOTED BY DR. WANDA NORTHAM, CLAIRE’S MOTHER

“In 10 years, I’d like to be on the partner track at our firm, and Chris, my fiancé, and I plan to have started a family,” she explained. “By that point, I’ll have long since passed the CPA exam, which will free up my time outside of work to be even more involved in the community and my church, as well.”

Buying a house was a great personal accomplishment for Claire. Knowing that she earned the cash to pay for it and maintaining it herself is very empowering to her.

Claire’s greatest professional accomplishment is fighting hard to get what she deserves. “I wouldn’t be where I am if I hadn’t had the courage to walk away from some things. Sometimes not getting what you’re asking for can be a great learning opportunity, I’ve found. I’m in a really good place right now, literally and figuratively, where I know my worth and know I’m appreciated,” she added. “I’ve had some great mentors along the way, both at work and at home, who helped me see what a woman can accomplish when she works hard.” 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“When I was 17, a year after having heart surgery, I played in the USA Junior Olympic Volleyball Nationals.” 

Zach Norment

age: 33 | Senior Media Consultant/Karate Instructor | CableONE Advertising/Lacy’s Shotokan Karate

As a Media Consultant, Zach Norment’s goal is to help area businesses develop content and reach their customers in as many ways as possible to drive sales and help them grow. “I am fortunate to work with an extremely talented creative team and have fun doing what I do,” he said. “In the evenings, I help teach martial arts in our family’s dojo, Lacy’s Shotokan Karate. Karate is my passion, my stress relief, and my motivation.”

Since the higher one goes in karate, the more work it usually takes, Zach is very proud that he has earned his 2nd degree Black Belt in Shotokan Karate. He admits that it has taken him a lot of years of hard work and dedication to reach this goal, but it has definitely been worth it. 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

Best advice you’ve ever received: “TALENT YOU HAVE NATURALLY. SKILL IS ONLY DEVELOPED BY HOURS AND HOURS AND HOURS OF BEAT- ING ON YOUR CRAFT.” – WILL SMITH

For fun, Zach enjoys woodworking and upholstering furniture. “There is nothing better than turning a simple sketch into a beautiful piece of furniture for someone to enjoy for years to come,” he said. “I also love being outdoors and, most importantly, spending time with my wife, Whitney, and children, Raidyn and Westin.” He also stays busy volunteering in the community as a board member for HandsOn Texarkana, a Chamber Ambassador, and a 2015 graduate of Leadership Texarkana, where he serves on the Leadership Team. 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I will do almost anything in public to embarrass my kids and niece, including randomly yelling ‘Bingo’ or dancing! My beautiful wife is no longer affected by this behavior.” 

Casey Nichols

age: 38 | Superintendent | Ashdown School District

Casey Nichols has worked his entire adult life for the benefit of students. “As a lifelong educator, I have had the opportunity to touch thousands of lives in the Texarkana area, hopefully creating community leaders who will continue to make Texarkana thrive for generations,” he said. “Over the last 16 years, I have had the opportunity to work directly with kids as a teacher and principal before moving into central administration as a director, executive director, chief operating officer, and superintendent, which has allowed me to expand my influence, regarding decisions that make a positive impact on students and our community.” 

Having recently accepted his position as superintendent of Ashdown School District, Casey is looking forward to meeting the needs of the district’s students. “I view [this new appointment] as an amazing opportunity to expand my positive influence and do great things for kids,” he said. 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“TREAT PEOPLE WITH RESPECT, AND BE FAIR TO EVERYONE.” —PAUL NICHOLS, CASEY’S FATHER

A husband to Megan Rose, and dad of two young children, Abigail Rose and Emily Rose, with a baby boy on the way, Casey’s future surely holds many moments with his family, to whom he is primarily devoted. He also sees himself continuing his legacy as a dedicated public educator. “My passion is education,” he explained, “and I fully intend to continue making a positive impact on the lives of our youth for years to come through my involvement in public education.” 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“Since I was a kid, my father and I have worked on cars together. Over the years, we eventually got into drag racing, and then started building cars ourselves. This is something that I would not trade for the world and has proven to be very special to me as time has passed.” 

Holly Mooneyham

age: 30 | Teacher 9th–12th grade STEM | Texarkana Independent School District

Iconic educator Rita Pierson said, “Kids can’t learn from teachers they don’t like.” Holly Mooneyham of Texas High has a different take on this philosophy: kids can’t learn from teachers they don’t relate to. “Sometimes students have misconceptions of teachers,” she said, “and letting them know the struggles I faced and how that led me to achieve my success . . . it allows us to bond for life. I’ve been led to use my story and influence to push my students and reach them on levels that are important to them.”

Holly’s experiences as a student are what propelled her into her career as an educator. “I had a troubled childhood that included a stint in foster care and family chaos with wicked stepparents, alcoholism, and drug addiction,” she explained. “I was one of 10 children. My refuge was school where teachers built relationships with me that made me feel loved and wanted. They were the calm while family life was the storm. My mom has always said that I wanted to be a teacher from the beginning, and experience in high school only solidified my career choice.” 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“IF YOU DON’T BEND, YOU’LL BREAK.” — FELLOW TEACHER TESSA RAY

Many of Holly’s students will be the first in their families to graduate high school, and this is another way they relate to their teacher: Holly was the first in her family to obtain a high school degree—and then a bachelor’s, and then a master’s. “I want [my students] to know that having an education is so beneficial,” she said—a lesson she teaches with her life.

Holly’s greatest professional achievement to-date has been being named the Region 8 Teacher of the Year in 2016. “I had only been teaching for four years and thought I was dreaming,” she recalled. But even greater honors are sure to be in her future; Holly says, through teaching, she is “living [her] dream,” and she hopes to continue her career for many years to come.

Holly has been married to her high school sweetheart, Johnny Mooneyham, Jr., for 13 years. As a couple, they enjoy travelling and taking road trips to Dallas Cowboy football games and to concerts. She also enjoys reading for pleasure, gathering with friends, catching up on her favorite Netflix shows, playing games, and floating in her new pool.

Besides her daily service in the classroom, Holly gives back to the community through other on-campus roles, as National Honor Society sponsor and former Key Club sponsor. In these positions, she has led students in service work for Race for the Cure®, Relay for Life, CASA 5K Run, and Dash 4 Cash, and the local foster care system. 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“What others may not know about me is that my guilty pleasure is watching reality TV shows like Big Brother of which I’ve been an avid fan for years!” 

Summer Mills

age: 39 | Vice President | Texana Bank

Accounting, finance, and operations leadership make up Summer Mills’ career as vice president of Texana Bank. “Using analytical skills to improve decisions and building processes to solve problems is something I’ve always enjoyed,” she confirmed. “Combining that with helping people makes a position satisfying to me. I’m fortunate to have all of those aspects in my current role.”

Summer has been married to her husband, Mark, for 16 years. They have two children, Xander and Addax, who are her greatest personal accomplishments.

A 2002 Texas A&M University- Texarkana graduate, Summer received her BBA and MSA while working full- time. “I was the first person in my family to attain a college degree,” she said. “That was a proud accomplishment, and without my college education, the success I’ve experienced in my career would not have been possible.” 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“WHEN TALENT AND ABILITY ARE EQUAL, THE PERSON WHO WILL STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD IS THE ONE WHO CAN SUCCESSFULLY MOTIVATE OTHERS TO DO BETTER. IF YOU FIGURE OUT HOW TO LEAD OTHERS TO SUCCESS, YOU WILL, ULTIMATELY, BE MORE SUCCESSFUL.” – COACH MURPHY, SUMMER’S HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL COACH

Currently the president of the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana, Summer has the opportunity to give back to children through the organization’s fund-raising proceeds that are distributed as grants and scholarships. She also participates in numerous service projects through the club. As an employee of Texana Bank, she helps coordinate community involvement opportunities and has volunteered this year with the United Way, Harvest Regional Food Bank, and Mission Texarkana.

Since giving back to the community is near and dear to Summer’s heart, she and her sisters carry on a family tradition their grandfather started when they were young. They collect and distribute food baskets to the elderly and needy in their hometown every year. 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I have time-space synesthesia. I ‘see’ the days of the week, months of the year, and times of the day as distinct visual patterns with specific spatial representation. Go ahead, and Google it!” 

Holly Nicole Jones

age: 34 | Assessment Coach & Trainer | Arkansas State University

Holly Jones is a former teacher with “a passion for kids, and kids that have been through trauma at a young age,” she said. After spending some time in front of the classroom, Holly transitioned from teaching children to teaching teachers. “I’m an assessment coach and trainer,” she explained. “I coach preschool teachers in their classrooms on how to assess their students through play and observation. In the summer, I train new hired teachers on assessment and refresh veteran teachers on new research about assessment.”

It is her passion for children that drives her work every day. “At the end of the day it comes down to helping and bettering the lives of children. That’s where my heart is at,” she said. “I’m a firm believer that, no matter a child’s circumstance, if they have one positive influence in their life, then they are capable of success, and sometimes it may just be a teacher who is that one person. I also relate to the flawed education system, and the amounts of stress and pressure our teachers are under with little pay. If I can help ease that stress and make a teacher’s life easier in their classroom then I have accomplished my goal.” 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“RESPECT AND MANNERS WILL TAKE YOU FURTHER IN LIFE THAN ANY EDUCATION EVER WILL.” –DALLAS KELLER, HOLLY’S GRANDFATHER

A single mother of three children, Kullen, Karsyn, and Kollyns, when Holly’s not at her day job, she is juggling her part-time jobs at Fox Sports Texarkana, ESPN Texarkana radio stations, and 9 Round gym. She recently joined the Junior League of Texarkana and is a regular supporter of the Randy Sams’ Outreach Center. She is accustomed to being busy: for example, to earn her master’s degree, she completed the program in one year, while maintaining full-time employment and raising two children. “That has been my greatest professional accomplishment so far,” she said.

Looking ahead, Holly has dreams of serving the homeless population— literally. “My goal is to remodel my grandpa’s old horse trailer into a food truck,” she explained. “I’d travel to concerts and big events to serve people food and drinks. I want to name it ‘The Crazy Heifer’ and set it up once a month to feed the homeless at no cost. That’s my little pipe dream.” 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I was born nine weeks early, and the doctor told my mom not to count her chickens before they hatched, meaning I might not make it. The only issue I had from being a preemie was I couldn’t bend my legs completely. Shriner’s Hospital fixed my legs at the age of 10. I couldn’t ride a bicycle until then. I have huge scars on my thighs, so as a kid when people would ask me what happened, I would tell them a shark attack.” 

Morgan Jerry

age: 37 | Small Business Owner | Big 5 Investments, LLC dba Jackson Hewitt Tax Service

Helping families through what is sometimes the biggest financial undertaking of their year, preparing their tax return, is very satisfying for Morgan Jerry. “Helping people is what really matters,” she said. “Being in a position to help people through unknown and sometimes difficult situations is a blessing!”

After Morgan’s brother, Nathaniel, began calling around asking about business opportunities within Jackson Hewitt Tax Service, he and Morgan and her twin sister, Brooke, formed Big 5 Investments, LLC (a great play on words for their family of five and the Big 5 Game in Africa). Their business provides income tax preparation, business services (from payroll and quarterly reports to full bookkeeping services), and business consulting and advisory services. Even though working with family is sometimes hard and stressful, Morgan is so proud that she gets to work in this Christian family business. She feels very strongly that their business is a success because of their family putting God first in their lives and living out their Christianity in all that they do ... work included! 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“I HAD A COACH IN HIGH SCHOOL, AND HE ALWAYS SAID, ‘I DON’T WANT EXCUSES! I WANT RESULTS!’” —ROGER HOOTEN, MORGAN’S FATHER

In describing her greatest personal achievement, Morgan explained, “I have been greatly blessed by God in my personal life. He gave me a loving Christian family to raise me and now a devoted Christian husband, Corey, who puts God first and two healthy little boys, Cage and Colt, who are 7-year- old twins! Through God’s grace, my greatest personal accomplishment has to be my three boys. Yes, I know one is my husband, but let’s face it, they are all boys!”

An avid volunteer who caught the “volunteer bug,” Morgan enjoys giving of her time to assist numerous local organizations. She works with the Public Relations committee for the Texarkana Race for the Cure®, the Parents’ Club of St. James Day School, the Dine on the Line annual event, Junior League of Texarkana, St. James Day School board of directors, and is currently a board member of the Independent Association of Jackson Hewitt Franchisees.

In 10 years, Morgan hopes to be still working at her desk just like she is today. “I will be bit older; I will have older children, but I plan to be me!,” she said. “The only change I desire is growth ... and not in my waistline! I want to grow as a wife, as a mom, as a volunteer, as a leader, and most importantly, as a Christian!” 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I have been hunting on four continents ... my favorite was taking over 1,000 birds in one day in Argentina. Big game hunting is a part of conservation and a passion of mine!” 

Dr. Omar Ishaq

age: 33 | Radiation Oncologist | CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System

Radiation oncologist Dr. Omar Ishaq loves what he does. “It’s my passion to deal directly with patients and help eliminate their fears for what can be a very scary journey,” he said. At the W. Temple Webber Cancer Center, Omar uses cutting-edge scientific research and a well rounded perspective to care for his patients.

“Treating cancer from a holistic perspective is what I aim to do,” he said, “providing sound treatment plans and other suggested ways to improve chances of survival and quality of life. Radiation oncology is an intellectually challenging and exciting career at the cutting edge of patient care, technology, and research, and it gives me the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of cancer patients while working with a fascinating, technologically advanced, and constantly evolving form of treatment.” 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“EVERY MAN DIES, BUT NOT EVERY MAN TRULY LIVES.” — FROM BRAVEHEART

Omar takes pride not just in his career but also in his status as a Texarkana resident, considering his greatest professional accomplishment to be “receiving the opportunity to represent Texarkana as a ‘Fabulous 40 and Under,’” he said. “I’ve been amazed by how much the community continues to thrive when giving back. I see Texarkana as a united community that effectively operates as a whole, supporting each other and giving everything that we can to one another. I am blessed to be a part of the wonderful community here and am honored to serve on the board of the Northeast Texas Chapter of the Red Cross and as a Pink Tie Guy for our local Komen Race for the Cure®.”

Outside of the Ark-La-Tex, Omar loves to travel, a passion that was ignited when he studied abroad in Greece, Japan, Mexico, and South Africa through a selective scholarship at the University of Florida. “Those life experiences taught me more than anything I could have learned in a book,” he reflected. That experiential education continues today, as Omar spends his free time exploring new places, cooking foreign cuisines, and just “creating new life experiences” with his loved ones. 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I love to dance, although I sometimes struggle with rhythm. I look forward to meeting you out on the dance floor!” 

Dr. Kevin R. Hayes

age: 37 | Cardiac Electrophysiologist | Texarkana Cardiology Associates

Dr. Kevin Hayes’ wife, Deedee, will tell you that her husband is “an electrician of the heart.” That’s the easiest way to describe his role as Texarkana’s first and only cardiac electrophysiologist. “I get to help cure people of often debilitating heart rhythm disorders,” he elaborated. “I get to work with an amazing team of professionals every day in the EP lab. We, quite literally, restore the rhythm of life.”

The Hayes family moved to Texarkana in 2015 and have since established themselves as volunteers and supporters of their church, St. Edward’s Catholic Church, as well as First Choice

Pregnancy Center. Kevin can often be seen participating in local 5K and 10K charity races. “That way, I get to be supportive and enjoy a nice run in the process,” he laughed. 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“ALWAYS ANTICIPATE PROBLEMS.” – KEVIN’S FATHER, KENNETH HAYES, WHEN HE WAS TEACHING HIM TO DRIVE

Kevin’s few free hours are usually spent with his big family. “I somehow convinced a beautiful woman to marry me, and together we had four (usually) wonderful kids – Brielle, Caroline, Rhett and Remy,” he said. For the foreseeable future, Kevin hopes to continue doing what he does today: “spending time with my family, running, and treating patients with heart rhythm disorders here in Texarkana.” 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I used to be a professional musician. When I was in high school, local funeral homes hired me to play Taps to honor our veterans.” 

Christina Guzman

age: 33 | Marketing | Ledwell

Christina Guzman has always had a love for marketing. However, she didn’t realize it until joining DECA her senior year of high school. It even took a few years after that for her to realize that she wanted to pursue a career in marketing, but now she loves her job handling all marketing for Ledwell, Ledwell Machinery, and Ledwell Office Solutions.

Other than the day she got married to her husband, Geoff, and having her two children, Olivia and Adrian, obtaining a bachelor’s degree is Christina’s greatest accomplishment. “I started out attending college right after high school, but life happens,” she explained. “I decided to finish my degree when my daughter was a year old and finished after my son was born. Working full-time, raising two small children, and attending school full-time was an experience I will never forget.” 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“HE HAS A PLAN.” –SHANNON FLOWERS

The Alzheimer’s Alliance Tri-State Area holds a very special place in Christina’s heart. She volunteers for two of the organization’s special events, Twice as Fine Wine Festival and Over the Edge. She is also the social media manager for the ArkLaTex 100 Club and co-chaired its first self-run fundraiser, Pull for Heroes, held last March.

Christina recently became involved with a initiative, started by Leadership Texarkana, to promote Texarkana. This project uses #gotxk for attractions, events, food, and everyday life in Texarkana. She said, “The goal is to not only attract visitors, but to attract locals to see everything our town has to offer. There are so many hidden gems in the community that people do not realize, and this is something everyone can participate in to spread the love of Texarkana by using #gotxk in their social media posts.” 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I love spicy food, but if something is too spicy, I get the hiccups.” 

DeMarcus Green

age: 37 | Principal of Kilpatrick Elementary School | Texarkana Arkansas School District

DeMarcus Green’s primary obligation is to create a positive environment for both students and teachers that is conducive to teaching and learning. “In doing so, I assist in meeting the needs of students by helping other educators acquire knowledge of diverse population groups and developing culturally informed strategies to assist the student populations within the educational sector,” he explained. “This allows me to utilize my circle of influence to produce needed change within the educational community.”

Being a father, as well as a protector and provider to his daughters, DeUndra (19) and Autumn (13) is DeMarcus’s greatest personal achievement. “My greatest professional accomplishment is when I was recognized in 2017 as Magnet Schools of America’s Regional Principal of the Year, representing the states of Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Mississippi,” he said. 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“YOU CAN TEACH SOMEONE HOW TO TEACH, BUT YOU CANNOT TEACH SOMEONE HOW TO LOVE KIDS.” —DAVID WALLS, DEMARCUS’S MENTOR

A graduate of Leadership Texarkana, DeMarcus has helped establish a plan for community excellence by engaging in strategic planning efforts between multiple sectors of the community. As an educator, he has coordinated and hosted a community 5K for the last two years, entitled “Hunger’s No Game” to help combat hunger in the Texarkana community. Registration for this event was the donation of 10 non-perishable canned food items. And the event has averaged over 10,000 food items each year, which were donated to Harvest Regional Food Bank and the Randy Sams’ Outreach Shelter.

DeMarcus is currently working on his doctoral degree in Educational Leadership at Texas A&M University- Texarkana. He concluded, “In 10 years, I hope to use the knowledge gained in this process to benefit me as I hope to become a school district superintendent.” 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I love to sing and dance (when no one is watching).” 

Allie Grace Graves

age: 16 | Student/Titleholder | Texas High School/Miss Texas Outstanding Teen Org.

In some ways, Allie Graves is a normal teenager. “I’m a 16-year-old girl, so I’m new to driving, and I love it,” she said. “One of my favorite things to do for fun is to drive my car out in the country with the windows rolled down, music cranked up, and sing my favorite songs. I also really enjoy dancing with my Texas HighStepper sisters and hanging out with my friends.”

In many ways, however, Allie stands out from her peers. As a successful competitor at the Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen pageant, she is often seen with a tiara on her head — but it’s what comes out of her mouth, and from her heart, that is truly extraordinary.

“I take great pride in competing within the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Organization. Through this professional development organization, I’ve developed a platform based on my life experiences of abuse, foster care, and adoption and turned them into a message of hope and healing,” Allie explained. “I receive so much joy and fulfillment when I invest in the lives of children and adults and encourage them to be difference- makers in our world. I strive to take every opportunity I’m given, whether I’m speaking in a crowded football stadium or I’m down on my knees in front of a group of foster children. I want to show the world that you are never defined by your circumstances and that God can use all things for good in the lives of others.” 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“WHEN YOU ARE GOING THROUGH SOMETHING HARD AND WONDER WHERE GOD IS, REMEMBER THAT THE TEACHER IS ALWAYS QUIET DURING A TEST.” — LISA SPOONER, ALLIE’S INTERVIEW COACH

Allie has performed over 1,200 community service hours, giving her time to CASA, For the Sake of One, the Child Welfare System, Alzheimer’s Alliance, American Heart Association, Race for the Cure®, First Choice Pregnancy Center, TISD Dash for Cash, United Way, Run the Line, and others. Aptly, Allie has been awarded Leadership Texarkana’s Youth Wilbur Award and the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana’s Stuart Daniels Leadership Award.

In 2017, Allie was named the Overall Community Service Award winner (as well as the Overall Talent winner) at Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen competition. “I believe my life’s purpose is serving others,” she said. “I’d love to be a catalyst in the Child Welfare System to bring awareness to the epidemic of child abuse and helping to facilitate change in the lives of children who have gone through unthinkable circumstances.” 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“My life is truly an open book, but one thing that people don’t immediately realize about me is that I was adopted by my parents, April and Mark Graves, at the age of 5. It’s pretty hard to believe since I actually look (and sometimes act) a lot like my dad.” 

Emily Graham

age: 32 | Baker | Graham Slam Bakery @ The Cake Boutique

Emily Graham started out decorating cookies as a hobby while she was a stay-at-home mother. “I posted my work on social media and had a lot of people asking if I would take orders,” she said. “I eventually created Graham Slam Bakery, where I create individual pieces of sugar art that also happens to taste impeccable.”

Married to Anthony, Emily is very proud of their daughter, Sydney Jo. She enjoys watching her grow up and into a fun, carefree girl. 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“HARD WORK ALWAYS PAYS OFF, AND IF IT WAS EASY, EVERYONE WOULD DO IT.” – BILL HUBREL, EMILY’S FATHER

“In December of 2017, I was chosen as a finalist in a Christmas cookie competition on Good Morning America on ABC,” Emily explained. “I was chosen as the winner on live TV, and my momma was there to watch and support me. It was my best day ever.”

Emily gives back to the community by volunteering at her daughter’s school. She also donates baked goods throughout the year to the Randy Sams’ Outreach Shelter and many of the local schools. Emily looks forward to the future and hopes to have multiple bakeries in the Four States Area while continuing to build a one-of-a-kind brand for edible art. 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I won a dance contest when I was 6 by doing the MC Hammer.” 

Silfida ”Sil” D.C. Gomez

age: 39 | Author, Instructor, Speaker, Life Coach | Self-employed

Silfida, who goes only by D.C. Gomez in literary circles, is a Wake Village resident and Army veteran who channels her life experiences into fantasy novels set in Texarkana. Her young novel series, The Intern Series, follows a female protagonist who returned to Texarkana after serving in the Army and encounters paranormal beings and events, including a zombie apocalypse. In D.C.’s fantasy world, Texarkana is anything but boring.

But it’s not just in her imagination that her community is compelling. When she’s not writing, Silfida can be found working with Altrusa International of Texarkana, which she led last year as president. She is also a member of the Texarkana International Rotary Club. “Both organizations have a fantastic history in Texarkana and are both part of incredible international entities,” she said. “I love the fact that both organizations have a focus on service and giving back to the community. Sometimes it is hard to see how our individual actions can make a difference in the world, but through local organizations, we can change our communities, and it will ripple.” 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“[LIFE] IS 50% GOOD AND 50% BAD. YOUR ATTITUDE WILL DE- TERMINE WHAT YOUR EXPERIENCE IS GOING TO BE.” –SIL’S ARMY RECRUITER

Silfida is also the Youth Minister at St. Edward’s Church, where she works with the youth group on a regular basis. Through fund-raising and organizing efforts, she helped eight students make the pilgrimage to Israel, a feat she considers one of her proudest accomplishments.

In the future, she would like further to serve Texarkana with her skills as a life coach and personal development leader. “I’m a John Maxwell Certified [leadership and management] instructor and would love to bring his teaching to our community,” she said. “I have learned that self-development and investing in ourselves makes us better prepared for the future. I’m excited to be able to share those tools with our community.”

Ultimately, Silfida’s aim is to inspire others to pursue their dreams, especially when they seem larger than life. “I’m originally from the Dominican Republic, and English is not my first language,” she explained. “It has taken me a lot of work to overcome my fears and embrace my passion as a writer. I figure, if I can do it, so many others can do the same.” 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I’m extremely sentimental and attach a lot of emotional value to gifts people have given me. I still have the first teddy bear my uncle gave me when we first came to the U.S. over 25 years ago. That bear has traveled with me from Salem, MA, to college and even the Army.”

Liz Flippo

age: 32 | Family Medicine Residency Coordinator | University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Many people believe the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. And this old adage rings true with UAMS’s Family Medicine Residency Coordinator, Liz Flippo. “My position with UAMS is special since my dad received his medical training from UAMS,” she explained. “I was actually born during his residency training in Pine Bluff, and there’s a photo of the two of us that was taken in his coordinator’s office.”

As the coordinator at UAMS, Liz is involved in the administration, recruiting, credentialing, and accreditation of its residency program. “The part of my job I value the most is being closely involved in the lives of 24 individuals during three years in residency,” she said. “Under the leadership of Dr. Russell Mayo, our program is a family ... we celebrate together the marriages, births, and successes while also grieving together losses and working through hard times.” 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“THINK OF IT LIKE A SEESAW – WHEN WORRY GOES UP, YOUR FAITH GOES DOWN. GIVE IT TO GOD, ELIZABETH.” —DR. MARK GABBIE, LIZ’S FATHER

Liz’s greatest personal accomplishment is, without a doubt, being John’s wife and Gabbie’s mother. She admits that she doesn’t know how she landed that gig, but she is forever grateful for the opportunity to have both of those titles.

Giving back to the community that has given her so much is a privilege to Liz. She currently serves on the board of directors as treasurer of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and continues to serve on the committee for the organization’s annual Songwriters on the Edge of Texas fund-raiser. She is a 2014 graduate of Leadership Texarkana and was a Debutante sponsor for the Texarkana Cotillion Club in 2014 and 2015. She also looks forward to being a new board member for Women for the Arts.

In 10 years, Liz sees herself being a fun, chaotic mom juggling kids from ball fields to dance lessons to schools functions and anything else they are interested in. “My mom was that mom for me and my older brother, and now that I’m older, I realize how supportive, invested, and selfless she was by doing that for us,” she explained. “I want to be just like her.” 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“The Flippos are growing! We are expecting twins in February 2019.”

Marissa Lyn Escobar

age: 31 | Instructional Facilitator at College Hill Elementary School | Texarkana Arkansas School District

Marissa Escobar always knew that God intended for her to be a mom. Once she and her husband, George, received the news that they were going to have a little girl, Marissa experienced the greatest joy she has ever felt. “Watching Maebry Belle grow and learn has been so much fun, and as cliché as it sounds, I am so thankful that God chose me to be her mama,” she said. “She is my greatest delight and sunshine even on the cloudiest days.”

As an instructional facilitator, Marissa plans professional development for teachers so that they can provide high quality educational experiences for students. “I help them become the best teacher they can be and realize their full potential, so that they can help our students do the same,” she explained. “I help foster a community of learners at College Hill Elementary. When I transitioned from the classroom into my current role, I knew that I could touch even more students’ lives by helping their teachers create powerful lessons. Children are our future, and they truly are the why behind every step of my career.” 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“BLOWING OUT SOMEONE ELSE’S CANDLE WILL NOT MAKE YOURS SHINE ANY BRIGHTER.” — MARSHA HARRINGTON, MARISSA’S MOTHER

Obtaining a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a 4.0 grade point average is Marissa’s greatest professional accomplishment. She enjoys working for TASD and is very proud to be a Razorback!

Marissa serves as a greeter and member of the First Time Guest Team at Heritage Church, and is an active member of the Junior League of Texarkana. She co-chaired the League’s Once Upon a Prom project last year, and looks forward to being on the Mistletoe Fair Committee this year while serving as one of the Decorations co-chairs.

In her spare time, Marissa enjoys vacationing with family and friends in Florida, being a room mother for Maebry’s class at Williams Day School, painting, creating wooden door hangers, decorating, reading, and shopping. 

Name something about you that very few people know:

““Well ... my favorite color is glitter, but anyone who knows me knows that! Something most people don’t know is that my husband and I met on a blind date and have been together ever since.””

Brandy Eldridge

age: 40 | Executive Director | CASA for Children and Texarkana Children’s Advocacy Center

For Brandy Eldridge, pushing back darkness and bringing hope, healing, and justice to children is more than just a career or a job. It is her mission!

“I have the privilege to work with a team of people who advocate for abused and neglected children in our community,” she explained. “My greatest professional accomplishment thus far is seeing justice served and hearing the resilient stories of children that become survivors and not victims of child abuse. To know that I was a tiny piece of that is always a great accomplishment.”

Brandy and her husband, Billy, have two daughters, Hava and Poppy Kate, and one son, Liam. “My husband is still the coolest person that I know. If I get to spend time with him, our kids, and my very special group of friends, then everything is a great adventure,” she said. 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“JUST LOVE PEOPLE. IF ALL ELSE FAILS, JUST LOVE PEOPLE.” – PATRICK LOOSBROCK, BRANDY’S FATHER

Both Brandy and Billy feel that service is what they were meant to do in life. She is honored to work with other nonprofits in this community that service people, including the Randy Sams Outreach Shelter, United Way of Greater Texarkana, Haven Homes, Hands On Texarkana, the Boys and Girls Club, and For the Sake of One. “Nonprofits helping nonprofits is important to CASA and to my family,” she acknowledged.

Brandy’s greatest personal accomplishment is to continue raising her kids to be kind and to leave the world a better place than they found it. However, realistically, she admits that seeing Dave Matthews in concert three nights in a row while in Mexico was also a highlight for her. “I am not sure how that is an accomplishment, butIam40,anditfeltlikeIwonthe lottery,” she laughed.

As a 10-year goal, Brandy hopes that CASA has more volunteers than children that are being served in Texarkana that have suffered from child abuse or neglect. Personally, she strives to always keep her family healthy and happy. 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I was an extra in a movie that went straight to DVD.”

Ashley Eddy

age: 37 | Maternal Child Supervisor | Wadley Regional Medical Center

In her position as Maternal Child Supervisor at Wadley, nurse Ashley Eddy oversees the nursery, NICU, postpartum, gynecology, and pediatrics departments. On any given day, she can be found scheduling shifts, managing her staff, acting as a floor nurse in busy times, and even fulfilling her duties in her position as “self-proclaimed women and children’s party planner.”

Ashley’s work is her passion. “I love being a nurse,” she said. “I love helping others, educating families with a new baby or new diagnosis, or just helping them get well by making their hospital stay a positive one.” A Texarkana resident since 2010, Ashley’s previous career experience led perfectly to her current position. “I owe [my successes in my position as supervisor] to the previous positions I held, which gave me the confidence to be a supervisor,” she explained. “After working in Fort Worth as a nurse, I was a travel nurse for 4 years. I worked at some of the best children’s hospitals in the United States. Through traveling, I not only gained valuable experience in nursing but also learned a lot about myself and found my voice.” 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“LIFE ISN’T FAIR!” –RICK LINDSEY, ASHLEY’S FATHER

Regularly volunteering through the hospital, Ashley is especially proud of the NICU Reunion and Breastfeeding Celebration, two recent projects she played a part in. She also serves the community through events at Heritage Church.

Though nursing is her dream job, Ashley’s favorite roles are those of wife to Michael, and mother to Roland (4) and Reid (21 months). Along with her family, Ashley loves traveling, spending time by the pool, and supporting her children in their interests. 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I am often mistaken for my sister, Jenni. We look a lot alike, both happen to be nurses, and have children the same ages. Our personalities are slightly different, however. If you see one of us and we don’t speak, it’s probably because we aren’t the sister you were thinking.”

Dustin Carlyle Earnest

age: 30 | Chief Financial Officer | Tri-State Iron and Metal Company

Dustin Earnest is a true family man. “As a father of two energetic young boys, Callaway and Carlyle, my interests and activities are limited in scope but grand in enjoyment,” he laughed. “My primary hobbies include rolling around on the playroom floor with my boys while teaching them how to do puzzles, building train tracks, and constructing obstacles for toy jeeps to climb. Activities like 4:30 a.m. workouts and Wednesday date nights allow me to spend dedicated time with my beautiful wife, Britt. We both also share a special interest in our faith. My wife and I teach our Sunday school class together, which has been a blessing for our spiritual growth and maturity.”

In addition to co-teaching at Sunday school, Dustin serves his church, Williams Memorial United Methodist, in other ways, including as a board member for the Williams School. He also volunteers with the church’s Community Cafe, a twice- monthly event that feeds hungry people in the area. Outside the church doors, Dustin is the Texas Exes Texarkana Chapter’s President-Elect. He has also been chosen as a Celebrity Artist for next year’s Women of the Arts Party with Picassos. 

Best advice you’ve ever received:

“THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF A NEW DAY. YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN THIS DAY TO USE AS YOU WILL. YOU CAN WASTE IT OR USE IT FOR GOOD. WHAT YOU DO TODAY IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE YOU ARE EXCHANGING A DAY OF YOUR LIFE FOR IT. WHEN TOMORROW COMES, THIS DAY WILL BE GONE FOREVER; IN ITS PLACE IS SOMETHING THAT YOU HAVE LEFT BEHIND... LET IT BE SOMETHING GOOD.” —COACH MACK BROWN GAVE EVERY PLAYER A LAMENTED CARD TO PUT IN THEIR WALLET WITH THIS QUOTE FROM AN UNKNOWN AUTHOR

Far from a stay-at-home parent or full-time volunteer, Dustin spends his weekdays at his job as CFO of Tri- State Iron and Metal, a career he finds deeply satisfying. “I enjoy analyzing how things work and building well designed things,” he explained. “In my role, I have the opportunity to use my expertise to analyze and refine structures or processes for the purpose of advancing the company’s goals. Understanding a company and having the ability to make positive changes is very fulfilling.”

Looking to the future, Dustin is excited to see his children grow up. “I look forward to coaching their sports teams and helping them with school projects,” he said. He dreams of family volunteer projects in the community as well as mission trips abroad. Individually, Dustin hopes to become more involved in local and state governmental bodies. And, if things ever slow down, he’d like to work on his golf game. 

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I played football but am allergic to grass, and I now work in the metal industry but am allergic to nickel.”