Amy Mascoe

age: 32 | Director of Operations | Texarkana Emergency Center & Hospital

Texarkana Emergency Center & Hospital’s director of operations, Amy Mascoe, makes sure that the hospital has everything they need to make each patient interaction the best it can possibly be.  From managing contracts for med-gas to keeping the center’s hospitality stations stocked with the best snacks, Amy takes care of every little detail!  “I love being able to help equip our team to perform at the best of their ability,” she explains.  “I get to go to work every single day at a place that I’m proud of and work with an administrative team that cares about not only the patients but their employees, too.”

Amy’s greatest professional accomplishment was making a career change in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.  She went from being a physician liaison, working primarily in a marketing function, to diving straight into learning what it takes to have a hospital operational and a brand new facility inspected and accredited.

Engaged to Jeremy Tankersley, Amy loves being a mother to her two daughters, Landry (6) and Logan Blair (5).  She enjoys spending time with her girls, planning trips with Jeremy, and grabbing brunch with close friends.

“I enjoy volunteering and giving back when and how I can, whether that’s through opportunities that arise at TEC or through personal endeavors that I am passionate about,” Amy admits.   

Amy looks forward to continuing to do exactly what she is doing right now in the future and potentially expanding to consult with other facilities that are opening.  “I love learning new aspects of keeping a healthcare facility operationally sound.  I love working for Dr. Young, Cindy, and all of the physician-owners at Texarkana Emergency Center & Hospital.”

Best piece of advice:

“Never compromise your integrity.” – Cindy Young, Amy’s mentor/friend

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I love to put together jigsaw puzzles and do Sudoku puzzles!”

Kelly Coke, Ed.D.

age: 39 | Director of Programs for Texas A&M University-Texarkana at Northeast Texas Community College and Paris Junior College; Instructor of Leadership Studies and Program Coordinator for Bachelor of General Studies

Dr. Kelly Coke helps empower community college students in rural Northeast Texas who want to complete their bachelor’s degree or graduate degree by helping remove higher educational barriers they may face.  “For my instructional role, I help students discover their leadership skills and help unlock their leadership potential by learning about leadership models and theories,” she explains.  “As higher education practitioners in this region of Texas, we have many laborious duties that are pertinent; however, it is all about student success that will ultimately change lives in Northeast Texas.”

Receiving a 12 Under 12 Young Alumni Spotlight Award in 2016 from Texas A&M University Association of Former Students was Kelly’s greatest professional achievement. This award recognizes Aggies who have graduated within the past 12 years for their outstanding accomplishments in business, civic service, and philanthropy, and for representing Texas A&M’s core values of excellence, integrity, loyalty, respect, and self-service. Another very proud time for Kelly was receiving the Texas A&M University System Teaching Award when she first started teaching in higher education.

Kelly stays very active on numerous boards, councils, organizations, and committees.  She is currently a board member on the Texas Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy and the Northeast Texas Communities in Schools.  She serves as the education committee chair and an ex-officio member of the board of directors for the Mount Pleasant/Titus County Chamber of Commerce.  She also serves as the chair for the Northeast Texas Community College and Texas A&M University-Texarkana Partnership Advisory Councils and the Northeast Texas Communities in Schools Sock Drive and Back to School Stuff the Bus Campaign with TAMUT at NTCC.  A member of the TAMUT Institutional Review Board, Kelly also serves as an EL Cadre member for QEP and the TAMUT steering committee for Connect 360 – The Eagle Experience.  

Active and energetic, Kelly looks forward to the future.  She plans to be a community college administrator who serves students and the community and a higher education professor who prepares a leader for higher education leadership roles.     

Best piece of advice:

“It is not about how far you rise, but how you bounce back when you fall.” — Mike Coke, Kelly’s father

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I interned for former First Lady, Mrs. Laura Bush, and my grandmother, Shirley, was one of the first hospital female administrators for the state of Arkansas in the 1980s. I am also a former barrel racer, rodeo queen, and former class agent for my Texas A&M class.”

Dana Cox

age: 40 | Owner | Cox Exterior Design & Development

At Cox Exterior Design, a design/landscape construction service, Dana Cox meets with customers to discuss their project hopes, creates a custom design, and carries out the construction process.  “My connection with nature and art is why I do what I do,” he acknowledges.  “Both have been a constant in my life.  They give me joy and strife, so I never get bored due to redundancy.  I just try to create harmony between the two and myself.”

Becoming a father and creating a loving family with his wife, Haley, is Dana’s greatest personal achievement.  “Our children – Charlie, Tripp, Brooks, and Wyatt – amaze us every day,” he says, proudly.  In his spare time, he enjoys being outdoors with family and friends near a body of water, traveling, attending concerts, fishing, biking, ATV riding, golfing, and cooking on the grill.  

Creating one-of-a-kind projects for his clients gives Dana much satisfaction.  He explains that he has had a few projects where the clients have given him 100% of their trust to create something unique and special.  “The projects were exciting and pushed me out of my comfort zone,” he admits.  “I’m pretty proud of how they turned out.”

Since he has always had an interest in the history of Downtown Texarkana, Dana tries to focus his efforts on the idea of its revitalization.  He joined a group of local professionals to help implement the “Courthouse Square” remodel by offering his design services.  Since it is near completion, he hopes to be involved with other projects in the future.  

When asked where he sees himself in 10 years, Dana jokes that he would love to say “retired and traveling the world with my family.”  However, he feels like that won’t be the case so he is thankful that he loves what he does and the people he does it with.  “It would be hard to walk away.  Hopefully, in 10 years, I can delegate my workload a little to spend more time with my family,” he concludes.

Best piece of advice:

“In business, it is important to surround yourself with people that are smarter than you.” —Bob Bunch, Dana’s late grandfather-in-law

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I like to collect and learn about antiques ... nothing specific, just things that are weird, rare, or interesting to me. I could watch ‘American Pickers’ all day.”

Jenna Sturgeon, DPT

age: 33 | Physical Therapist | CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System

A physical therapist for eight years, Jenna Sturgeon works primarily in acute care which means she works in the hospital setting. She has spent her entire career with a focus on early mobility in the ICU. She works to mobilize patients who are not only in the ICU, but sometimes on a ventilator as well. “I do this because, in my opinion, it is the most difficult outsetting for a PT to work in. I want to be where the action is,” she says.  “I want to be the first to get to the patients and educate them on what we can accomplish. It’s very rewarding.”

Jenna was the first person in her family to attend college.  Earning a doctorate degree in physical therapy is a fete that makes her very proud. Jenna was also instrumental in developing and implementing an early mobility program. “Being able to develop something, watch it come to fruition, and then see it become successful was very rewarding for me,” she says.

Although Jenna and her husband, Frank, were not sure they even wanted kids, three years after they married, “God gave us our answer.”  Now, they have a son, Nash, and a daughter, Whitley.  “I am so grateful for them!”  she exclaims.  “I hope to raise them both to be hard workers and to have a servant’s heart.”

Visiting zoos, going to water parks, and hanging out with her children is how Jenna spends her free time.  “I used to barrel race for fun, but now that I have kids, I enjoy being with them on my days off and taking them to see new things,” she explains.  

In 10 years, Jenna hopes to still be working in the ICU here in Texarkana.  “I hope that by then, it’s a standard to walk patients who are on ventilators,” she says.  “In my personal life, my kids will then be in their pre-teens so I hope to enjoy watching them in their hobbies and chauffeuring them around.”

Best piece of advice:

“Never ruin an apology with an excuse.” – Benjamin Franklin

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I’m a bit of a pool shark. I used to enter pool tournaments at bars when I was in college to win food money for the week.”

Trey Dickens

age: 37 | Insurance Agent | Texas Farm Bureau Insurance

Trey Dickens’ job as an insurance agent with Texas Farm Bureau Insurance includes advising clients on what insurance products best fit their individual needs. “We make sure that there are plans in place to protect them from financial hardships,” he explains.  “The best part of my job is getting to know so many different people and their families. Through these relationships, I am better able to advise my clients on their insurance needs as their lifestyles change. Whether because of a new baby, a new home, or just getting married, our insurance needs are constantly changing. I think it is important to be mindful of these changes and have an advisor that knows how to help.”

Being able to protect people close to him with long-term care products and also life insurance is high on Trey’s list of priorities. “I’m in a position where I’m fortunate enough to protect families and their assets,” he says.  “A lot of people will never experience the satisfaction of knowing you helped someone protect what matters most; it’s something I take very seriously.”

Trey’s greatest personal accomplishment is marrying his wife, Anna, and starting their family together. They will celebrate their four-year anniversary this month.  They have a 2-year-old daughter, Blake, and just welcomed a son, Luke, the newest member to their family, in July.

Trey volunteers his time when and where he can to benefit local charities and schools. He currently volunteers with CASA, Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure®, and the Randy Sams’ Shelter.

When explaining what he enjoys doing for fun, Trey says, “I’ve always enjoyed being outdoors whether I’m playing golf, duck hunting, or mowing the yard with my daughter, Blake. I also enjoy spending time with our family.  I am fortunate that we are all able to get together most weekends.”  Although 10 years seems like a lifetime away, Trey looks forward to seeing his children grow up and taking them to their ball games, dance recitals, hunting, and golfing.

Best piece of advice:

“It doesn’t take that much more time to do it right.” – Sam Dickens, Sr., Trey’s grandfather

Name something about you that very few people know:

“My full name is Samuel Vern Dickens III.”

Chris Allison

age: 37 | Owner of Perfection Steamers, LLC | Investigator with Bowie County Sheriff’s Office

As a child, Chris Allison remembers seeing the military recruiting brochures in the Post Office.  Looking at them stirred a desire within him to help people and serve his country.  From there, his story evolved: “I joined the USAF and then later started my career with the Bowie County Sheriff’s Office,” he explains.  “I served 10 years in the U.S. Air Force, and I am in my 14th year with the BCSO.  My drive to help people is what pushed me to start my business, Perfection Steamers, five years ago.  I’m thankful that through this business, we were able to provide water restoration services during the recent snow storm that impacted the Texarkana area.  We also provide COVID-19 sanitation services to organizations and residents through the pandemic.”

An outsider looking in would say that Chris has had great accomplishments during his career at the Sheriff’s Office, whether as a K9 handler, serving as a patrol sergeant and later as a lieutenant, or a member of the SWAT team.  However, to him, his greatest accomplishments are when he is randomly approached by individuals who share with him how he affected their lives in a positive way through encounters with them as a police officer.  “I especially love it when they share that they are now in church and have given their life to Christ,” he explains.  “This transformation for me is a true testament to what I’m really doing in my career.”

Describing his greatest personal achievement comes easy for Chris.  He and his wife, Blessing, have one daughter, Destiney, and three sons, Parker, Jeremiah, and Brady.  Being a father is high on Chris’ list of priorities, and he is grateful for every little moment he gets to spend with them.  

Since helping others just comes naturally to Chris, he enjoys helping nonprofit organizations and has established a Secret Giver Program through his business, Perfection Steamers.  This program allows people to nominate needy families, veterans, or widowers who need some assistance.  

Best piece of advice:

“Believe nothing that you hear and only half that you see.” —originally by Edgar Allen Poe, but often repeated by Wayne Allison, Chris’s father

Name something about you that very few people know:

“Most people don’t know that I have a twin sibling.”

Cylas Langdon, RN

age: 30 | Registered Nurse at CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic | Co-Host of “Lady Like” on Texarkana Gameday | Social Media Influencer

Multi-talented and positive, Cylas Langdon knows how to set goals and work hard until they are accomplished.  Whether working as a nurse, learning to play a game of golf, or spreading positivity to her many social media followers, Cylas gives 100% effort to every facet of her life.  

The satisfaction she receives when helping others makes Cylas happy and proud.  “I have a few different career paths, but being a Registered Nurse pays the bills!”  she admits.  “I became an RN because I love helping people.  My passion is helping other women – which ties into cohosting ‘Lady Like’ and my social media presence.”  

Cylas utilizes social media, particularly Instagram, to create content for brands worldwide. Her platform is very popular, as she currently has 31,000 followers. “My primary focus is everyday style for women, lifestyle content, and fitness,” she explains.  “I’m on a mission to help other women look and feel their best.”

As co-host of “Lady Like” with Texarkana Gameday, Cylas interviews local women in business and female athletes of all ages.  The show airs on Mondays at 5:30 p.m. live on Facebook and YouTube.

For fun, Cylas enjoys running, exercising, reading, listening to music, and learning to play golf.  An athlete at heart, she admits that her greatest personal accomplishment was running a Boston qualifying marathon time.  A member of Leadership Texarkana, Cylas helps promote the nonprofit’s goTXK movement on social media, and she also serves as a Partnership for the Pathway/Run the Line Half-Marathon volunteer. 

As for the future, Cylas hopes to be even more involved in the Texarkana community as an active mother and wife.  She explains, “My husband, Braxton, and I both love Texarkana and hope to stay here and really contribute to the growth and community pride of our peers.”

Best piece of advice:

“Life is like swimming upstream in a river. You can’t ever just be stagnant. If you’re not moving forward, you’re going backwards in life.” — Eric and Julie Hall, Cylas’ parents

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I play the piano … really well. (Haha!) But I hate to play for people, so most people don’t even know I can play.”

Brittany Ackley, MD

age: 34 | Family Medicine Physician | CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic

Always eager and willing to meet the healthcare needs of the Texarkana community, Dr. Brittany Ackley works as a family medicine doctor in an outpatient clinic.  She chose medicine as a career because she knew that she wanted to help people with their health.  “I enjoy working in the clinic setting, as I get to really know patients (and many times entire families) and follow along with them for years,” she explains.  “I am a problem solver by nature, and relish getting to solve/‘fix’ a patient’s problem/health concern.”  

An inspiration to young women considering a career in the medical field, Brittany acknowledges that graduating from UAMS Family Medicine residency was a huge feat for her.  Those three years she spent in training really helped mold her into the caring and compassionate physician she is today.

With friendships that are over 25+ years old, Brittany feels fortunate that she has been able to maintain close relationships over the years.  “I do everything I can to make them a priority, as these people are the ones who have been present for both the mountain top moments, as well as the valleys,” she comments.

For the last few years, Brittany served on the local board for the American Red Cross. She has assisted with smoke alarm installation and education, as well as a recent telethon to help raise money for this area. More recently, she serves on the board for CASA for Kids and is looking forward to becoming even more active in this organization. She is also a member of CHRISTUS St. Michael Friends of the Foundation. 

When she’s not busy taking care of patients, Brittany loves spending time with her friends, family, or rescue dog, traveling to or exploring new places, and attending concerts.  Personally, her hopes for the future include getting married and having a couple of kids.  Professionally, she looks forward to mentoring new physicians.

Best piece of advice:

“God hasn’t brought you this far to leave you. He’s got this, and He’s got a plan.” —Gayle Collard, Brittany’s mother

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I once won a pound of fudge for correctly reciting the alphabet backwards in under 30 seconds.”

Brittney Haynes

age: 28 | Marketing Representative | SignatureCare Emergency Center

“I am the marketing representative and physician liaison for SignatureCare Emergency Center. Essentially, I create and maintain relationships with healthcare providers, our community, and everyone in-between,” Brittney Haynes explains. “My primary focus is making sure people recognize and understand the state-of-the-art services and incredible patient care that our facility provides. I also work with many different local organizations and schools on events, sponsorships, and programs.”

Currently, one of Brittney’s greatest professional accomplishments was being invited to serve on the board of the Greater Texarkana Young Professionals. Earlier this year, she was nominated to serve as the vice chair, and she is still so grateful and excited for the opportunity she has been given. Additionally, she was also recently selected to be in the Leadership Texarkana Class 2021-2022, and she couldn’t be more excited!

Being a graduate of Henderson is one of two personal accomplishments that makes Brittney very proud.  The other one is being married to Brandon, who Brittney says is “the most amazing person I know.” In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, working in her flower beds, traveling to new places with Brandon, crafting and making wreaths, and going to the lake with her family.  

Brittney’s involvement with Greater Texarkana Young Professionals is very important to her. “We nominate local charities and not-for-profit organizations each quarter.  We plan and organize networking events to raise money and awareness for the group that is chosen,” she explains. “In addition, we also encourage our community to come together to support and make donations to other organizations like the Randy Sams’ Outreach Shelter.” 

In 10 years, Brittney hopes to be an established leader and volunteer in the Texarkana community. She plans to have a few more Golden Retrievers (she currently has two, Goose and Ava).  She also aspires to have the best-looking garden and landscaping on her block, too!

Best piece of advice:

“Make good choices, do the right thing, and know that you are always loved.”—Barbara Walker, Brittney’s dear friend, second mother, and unofficial life coach

Name something about you that very few people know:

After I graduated college in 2015, I volunteered as a Spanish translator for the Make-A-Wish Foundation in Hot Springs (Garland County) for a few years.”

Alexus Paxton

age: 25 | First Grade Teacher | Texarkana Arkansas School District

A phenomenal, inspiring, and hardworking teacher, Alexus Paxton teaches TASD’s future leaders of America.  “Surviving my first year of teaching during a pandemic was my greatest professional accomplishment,” she acknowledges. “Having an impact on a child and watching them grow is so fulfilling. Teaching the children in my community is a dream come true; my students are depending on me. I’ve been dreaming about being a teacher since second grade, so I truly believe in manifestation. I pictured myself in this position too many times! Being nominated for Fabulous 40 and Under is incredible, too! This is an accomplishment that I won’t ever forget.”

As a first generation college student, Alexus considers graduating from the University of Central Arkansas and obtaining a bachelor’s degree in science while minoring in education as a huge personal achievement. She considers it a privilege to make her family proud while also giving her little sister someone to look up to ... she says this is the “best feeling ever.” 

Working out, painting, and cooking are how Alexus spends her free time.  “Cooking is my favorite because food is so yummy,” she says. “I also like having cooking competitions with my boyfriend and little sister. Those are also a few of my self-care regimens.  Self-care is very important and a key component to a healthy lifestyle.” 

Alexus enjoys volunteering with the youth softball association when possible. She tries to be a helping hand during practice while showing the girls how to cleanly field a ground ball or keeping the dugout organized. She feels that softball is so exciting, and she really enjoys being in an empowering atmosphere.

In 10 years, Alexus will be starting her 12th year of teaching, and she looks forward to owning a luxury Black-owned boutique which will focus on embracing all body types and styles. She concludes, “My collections will also be very exclusive! The idea of wearing something nobody else has is a great feeling.”

Best piece of advice:

“Take care of yourself and stay true to yourself.”

- Comekia Island, Alexus’ mother

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I enjoy finding tasty recipes on TikTok that are worth the hype. My family normally judges my food with a smile!”

Brittney Frost

age: 35 | Lending Assistant | Guaranty Bank and Trust

As a lending assistant at Guaranty Bank and Trust, it is Brittney Frost’s responsibility to maintain the loan department’s files, prepare and review documents for loan closings, order required due diligence items, and work closely with title companies to ensure closing goes smoothly for customers. “I work closely with the loan officer to build and maintain positive relations with all customers and potential customers,” she explains.  “I chose my profession because I enjoy working closely with my customers to insure that we are meeting their financial needs and providing them excellent customer service.”

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Business from SAU, Brittney helped form two nonprofits in Texarkana and serves as vice president on the boards of both. In 2014, Brittney and a group of friends formed Friends for a Cause, a nonprofit organization that was originally formed to help cancer patients with expenses insurance would not cover. In 2020, Jade Bredenberg and Brittney formed Beyond the Badge of TXK. Since they are law enforcement wives, they formed this group where other wives and law enforcement supporters come together and support first responders.      

In 2018, Brittney was awarded the +1 Service Award. Awarded to a Guaranty Bank and Trust employee who consistently goes above and beyond to deliver an exceptional experience for their customers, whether internal or external, receiving this award is Brittney’s greatest professional accomplishment. She always strives to go above and beyond to help people both personally and professionally. 

In her spare time, Brittney enjoys spending time with her husband, Travis, and their two English bulldogs, riding with Travis on his motorcycle, and going on vacations. Spending time with friends is also fun for Brittney, as well as binge watching TV shows when she can. 

In the next 10 years, Brittney sees herself advancing in her career in banking while continuing to serve the community though Friends for a Cause and Beyond the Badge of TXK. 

Best piece of advice:

“Everyone has a purpose in life, and part of your purpose is giving back to others, whether it is in your community, church, job, school, or family.” – Brenda Raney, Brittney’s grandmother

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I have professionally trained and shown miniature horses since the age of 7 and made my final show at the age of 25. Over the years, I held the national champion title in open jumper with my horse, Fletcher.”

Amanda Lance

age: 37 | Director of Hempstead Hall & Workforce Development | University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana

Amanda Lance’s core values are community, family, and creativity.  Her mulfi-faceted career allows her to meet many people, provide positive experiences for others, and focus on people in the community who are leaders.  As the director of Hempstead Hall, she works to provide cultural experiences for the community.  “Through Workforce Development, I work with local agencies to provide world-class training to our region. Both aspects help to fulfill UAHT’s mission to provide quality life experiences and lifelong learning to our citizens,” she explains. “Everything I do through my roles at the college are because I want to see Hope and Texarkana continue to thrive. I want to be part of the group of people who are making this an area where a younger generation wants to live and continue to expand the legacy that’s been left to us.”

Through Amanda’s job, she feels fortunate to be part of LeadAR Class 19. This program runs through the UA Department of Agriculture and is one of the oldest leadership programs in Arkansas.  Classes travel around the state, nation, and world to learn about the challenges and accomplishments of each place the group visits. This two-year program has already allowed Amanda to grow significantly. 

Every week, Amanda also co-hosts a podcast, “Hope Grown,” with three friends: Jennifer Block, Jennifer Cunningham, and Lindsey Honea which features local happenings. They interview people in the community who are making things happen and casually discuss why these events are beneficial. 

Connecting with people, learning more about the Hope community, and helping connect dots for herself and others are near and dear to Amanda’s heart.  “I love that I have found a network of friends and family who truly enjoy giving back to our community and are up for whatever crazy idea I might throw at them (including writing/producing/directing two plays in 2020),” she mentions.

Amanda serves as a board member for the Southwest Arkansas Arts Council and is the corresponding secretary for the Junior Auxiliary of Hope.  She is president of the Hope Rotary Club and helped bring Hope USA.com to fruition.  This is an all-inclusive website for the county and features the Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Corporation, the Tourism Commission, and a community calendar that informs visitors and residents alike of all that is happening in Hempstead County. “Since I am mostly located in Hope, the majority of my community involvement is centered in Hempstead County. But I could make the argument that a strong Hope benefits Texarkana at large because I believe we are all better together than we are apart. If we want the region to continue to grow, we have to individually make investments across the entire region,” Amanda says. 

Best piece of advice:

“We’ve got this.” – Lindsey Honea, Amanda’s friend and co-host

Name something about you that very few people know:

“Early in my twenties, I learned to team rope … not well by any means. But this is always a fun fact to pull out and watch people’s reactions because it’s so surprising to people who know me now! To me, it’s proof that we’re ever-evolving and anything can be fun or worthwhile if you give it a shot.”

Brittany Patton

age: 36 | Managing Partner | Ironwood Grill

Brittany Patton’s greatest professional accomplishment is becoming part owner of Ironwood Grill.  “I have put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into that restaurant for the last 10 years,” she says.  “It was so nice to have the reward from all the hard work.”  

As a managing partner, Brittany oversees the front of the house staff at Ironwood and makes sure that the day-to-day operation flows smoothly.  “I also take care of the hiring and training of the staff,” she continues.  “I enjoy watching people grow and making long lasting relationships with the guests.”

For fun, Brittany and her family enjoy going to Dallas, visiting the zoo or aquarium, taking trips back to North Carolina to visit family, and going to the beach.  Her greatest personal accomplishment was graduating from college with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and her best accomplishment, by far, is raising her three girls, Hadley, Ava, and Willow! 

“My husband, Paul, and I give back to Texarkana by giving to Toys for Tots every Christmas. We also are involved in giving to the Texarkana Baptist Children’s Home,” she explains.  “We enjoy giving to Walking for Williams because Williams has a special place in our hearts.”

Brittany looks forward to the future, watching her girls grow up, and enjoying more adventures with family.

Best piece of advice:

“Don’t be afraid to travel or do things because God has your time of birth and time of death so get on the plane because if you are not on the plane, it will come down and hit you.” –GertRude Doleiden, Brittany’s great-grandmother

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I moved to Texarkana on a whim. I had never visited or seen where we were going to be living, and I have been here 10 years now. I consider it home.”

Tara Droske

age: 34 | Kindergarten Teacher | Texarkana Independent School District – Morriss Elementary

Texarkana Independent School District’s Elementary Region 8 Teacher of the Year Tara Droske loves being a kindergarten teacher at Morriss Elementary.  “I truly believe that I am doing what the Lord has called me to do,” she says.  “I absolutely love instilling the love of learning into each and every child that enters my classroom.”

Completing her master’s degree, receiving National STEM certification, and being named the Elementary Region 8 Teacher of the Year are three of Tara’s greatest professional accomplishments.  She believes that a strong teacher is constantly learning, changing, growing, collaborating, engaging their students, building relationships, and growing leaders.  She considers herself a lifelong learner and is always willing to share her knowledge and experience with others.

Marrying her best friend and high school sweetheart, David, and having two children, Claire (7) and William (2), are Tara’s greatest personal achievements.  For fun, she enjoys spending time with her family, exercising, being outdoors, and shopping.

Tara serves on the Williams Memorial United Methodist Church school board, participates in local charity runs, mentors new TISD teachers, serves as a cooperating teacher through Texas A&M University-Texarkana, volunteers at many local events including Run The Line and Vacation Bible School, and serves on a number of committees within TISD.  Where does she see herself in 10 years?  “I  definitely see myself in the educational field,” she answers.   “I have a long-term goal of working in a role in which I can help teach and prepare new teachers.”

Best piece of advice:

“Hard work and respect toward others will get you far.” – Bernhard Stockmann, Tara’s father

Name something about you that very few people know:

“Anyone that knows me knows that I am an open book, but one fun fact about me that some people may not know is that I have completed several marathons and even ran a 50k Ultra Marathon!”

Katie Daniels

age: 20 | Technical Director | Hempstead Hall at UAHT

Katie Daniels is the technical director at a performing arts center in southwest Arkansas. Every day, she ensures that each event is prepped with perfection and carried out with ease to guarantee the best experience possible for Hempstead Hall’s clients. She explains her passion, “From an early age, I developed a passion for the work being done behind-the-scenes to put on concerts and shows. I became very close to many people who worked in those ‘behind-the-scenes’ positions and started following them around asking as many questions as I could think up,” she comments. “When I was about 14, I started really getting the hang of lighting. Since my dad was the music director for David Phelps, I would assist the head LDs (lighting designers) with their duties on those tours.  At 17, I became the head lighting designer on the David Phelps tour and stayed there until I was offered the technical director position at Hempstead Hall in 2020.” Since a lot of work is put in before, during, and after a show,  Katie’s desire is for those duties to be done with perfection so that each show is better than the last. If clients and customers are not happy, then she is not happy. Everything she does is to benefit Hempstead Hall and the community, and for clients to leave Hempstead Hall with a bigger smile than the one they had when they arrived. 

Katie enjoys being with family and friends, laughing and just enjoying others’ company. Although it might seem cliché, Katie absolutely loves watching films and series and traveling.  “Having already visited nearly all 50 states, I intend on now traveling to every country in Europe at some point in the near future!” she explains. “I’m a bit obsessed with fashion and all things clothes and shoes. My aim is to be fashionable, carry a consistent style, and not break the bank while doing so! You will find me in Goodwill and Plato’s Closet on a lot of my days off – and I use my Poshmark app just about daily.  Lastly, I am a football fanatic – and not the kind you think. Apparently, it’s called soccer in the U.S., but I’m sticking with football. I watch primarily the English Premier League, but also keep up with most of the European International competitions. My favorite football club is Manchester United with Chelsea FC being my second favorite.”

Even though she has never been much of a book lover or enjoyed reading for pleasure, Katie holds interest in quite a broad number of things. She has a deep connection to writing – stories, poems, screenplays, etc. She enjoys writing and directing short films, and writes her thoughts and memories down in a journal. (She even has a short film currently in the works.)  In 10 years, Katie hopes to be a full-time filmmaker, writing and directing feature films that will be entertaining, meaningful, and valued.

Best piece of advice:

“You can do anything if you have the want to and the willingness to work for it.” — Jack E. Daniels, Katie’s father

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I am very intrigued by abandoned places. I love exploring them and scouting the ones in my area out. I watch a lot of YouTube videos on urban exploration. My favorite channel is ‘Broken Window Theory,’ which is a small group of guys based in Germany that travel across eastern Europe and explore beautiful, abandoned places! I love this channel because not only is it aesthetically pleasing to watch due to professional cinematography, videography, and editing, but BWT gives a detailed but brief history on the place they’re exploring, and it makes it that much more interesting.”

Danielle Anderson,RN

age: 38 | Registered Nurse – Nursing Supervisor | Hospice of Texarkana, Inc.

Danielle Anderson is a hospice nurse. In 2009, she heard that Hospice of Texarkana was looking for a PRN RN and decided to check it out. After only three short months working PRN for Hospice, she knew this was where her heart for nursing would remain. During March of 2009 a full-time position became available and Danielle started as a case manager, later becoming an admissions nurse, followed by Hospice aide supervisor, and now a nursing supervisor for the home care staff. “Although my first love is providing hands-on nursing care, I truly love supervising the amazing nurses and aides at Hospice of Texarkana,” she explains. “Each staff member brings something different to my life, and I am blessed to work with the best. They have been a huge support to me throughout trials in my life and are like family to me. Other than supervising the field staff, I also work hard on helping our organizations stay within our benchmarking goals. Most of my day is spent working on nurse schedules, talking with patients and caregivers, triaging calls that come to our office, and reviewing medications, medical equipment, and supplies for each patient. I attend family meetings when needed and also fill in to help with visits and admissions as needed. It is a team effort, and I continue to learn and grow as a Hospice nurse and supervisor each day.”

Working her way from the ground up to becoming a supervisor at Hospice of Texarkana is likely Danielle’s greatest professional accomplishment. She has become well-versed in the Hospice field and is able to have difficult conversations while showing sincere compassion during some of the most difficult times for patients and caregivers. She also has a goal of becoming palliative care certified in the next three years to help broaden her knowledge in Hospice care.

Whether escaping to the Ouachita Mountains, trail riding on side-by-sides, finding new zoos, riding go-carts, or lounging at the river, Danielle and her close-knit family love to take in the beautiful outdoors that Arkansas has to offer.  “Although this sounds a bit sappy, my biggest personal accomplishment is being a wife to Josh, mom to Victoria, Jaxon, Olivia, and Jakob, and working a full-time job. I try very hard to keep a work/life balance and ensure that my family knows how high of a priority they are to me, while still striving to be a strong leader at Hospice of Texarkana,” she says, proudly.  “Our children are active in sports and extracurricular activities, and I pride myself on being present for every event to show my support to them. In the event that I do have scheduling conflicts that prevent me from attending an event, our extended family including grandparents, great grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, step in to fill the gap. In short, I would say my family knowing they are so loved and supported is my greatest personal accomplishment. And I’m forever grateful to be in a position to have a growing career while still being completely present in my family’s life.”

Best piece of advice:

“You are too blessed to be depressed.” – Danny Taylor, Danielle’s father

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I share my birthday with my 10-year-old son, Jaxon. We were both born on April 11, and our time of birth is only seven minutes apart. We were also both delivered by the same doctor, just 28 years apart. We also share our birthday with my husband’s grandfather and our niece, who was actually born the exact same day as our son, Jaxon.”

Katey Neal

age: 30 | Marketing Assistant/IT | Red River Home (includes Ashley Furniture, Four States Furniture and America’s Mattress)

“I work in the marketing department for Red River Home including: Ashley Furniture, Four States Furniture, and America’s Mattress,” Katey says. “I manage all of our social media accounts, digital design work and IT, working with each department to ensure their tools in the field are operating efficiently.”

Katey’s greatest professional accomplishment was owning her own business, a dance studio in Fouke, Arkansas.  Dancing has been a passion of Katey’s since she was young, and fulfilling such an amazing dream was incredible for her.  Through that endeavor, Katey actually found her love of digital marketing which brought her to where she is today.  

Being a wife to Greg and mother to two daughters, Aubrey and Olivia, is Katey’s greatest personal achievement.  “Being a mother to two beautiful girls makes everything 10 times better,” she admits.  Binge watching shows she’s already watched and going out for sushi are fun activities that Katey enjoys doing in her spare time.

Supporting communities, including Texarkana, Sherman, Texas, Paris, Texas, Greenville, Texas, and Hope, Arkansas, is a top priority for Red River Home. “Through Hope to Dream, Ashley HomeStores donates a portion of the mattress sales to Hope to Dream to provide children with a twin mattress, bedframe, bedding and pillow,” Katey explains.  “We have also provided in-kind donations for several organizations including: Habitat for Humanity, CASA, Special Olympics, For the Sake of One, and Master Key Ministries, just a name a few.

“I remember just 10 years ago wondering where I would be,” Katey recalls.  “Looking back, I have accomplished and overcome so much. I only see thriving from here on out and doing big things in my life. Marketing is such a passion of mine, and I most definitely will be continuing on with this [career] in 10 years.”

Best piece of advice:

“Every day is a new beginning.” — Martha Long, Katey’s grandmother

Name something about you that very few people know:

“One of my favorite snacks is peanut butter sandwiches with Dorito chips inside.”

Kasey Coggin, Ed.D.

age: 32 | Allied Health Coordinator | Texarkana College

Kasey Coggin, Ed.D., has served as a public educator for the last decade.  She is passionate about ensuring students are successful. “It is my goal to identify and provide resources needed for each and every student. Previously, in my role as elementary principal, I proudly worked with dedicated teachers and young learners,” she explains.  “In my new role in the Community and Business Education Department at Texarkana College, I have the opportunity to work with adult learners and help them begin or continue an opportunity that positively impacts their future. It is so inspirational to see these students have the courage to set sail on a new journey.”

A true labor of love, writing a dissertation from start to finish is Kasey’s greatest professional accomplishment. The process associated with writing a dissertation provides great opportunity for learning, but it also requires an incredible amount of commitment. Kasey is not only grateful for the completion of the doctoral program at Texas A&M University-Texarkana in 2019, but she also hopes it inspires others to chase their dreams. She remarks, “I truly believe everyone is capable of so much more than they realize.”

Kasey is married to Cody, and they have a 3-year-old son, Caylor.  Being a mother is high on the list of priorities for Kasey.  “As an educator, I have been afforded the opportunity to see the positive impact parental involvement has on a child’s life. I strive to provide the love and attention that Caylor needs, but I definitely make mistakes along the way!” she explains.  “I’m also pretty proud of running a Boston qualifying marathon time at the Houston Marathon with my friend, Cylas, in January of 2020 after months of commitment and hard work.”

Serving as the director of Kids Run the Line Too for Partnership for the Pathway allows Kasey to combine her love for running and children into one event.  She is also an active member of Women for A&M Texarkana and a recent graduate of Leadership Texarkana.  This year, she is looking forward to serving on the Today’s Youth - Tomorrow’s Leaders committee to continue preparing Texarkana youth to lead us to an even brighter future.

Best piece of advice:

“Stay true to yourself and always trust the path.” — Robin Hickerson, Kasey’s dear friend and mentor

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I have never taken a ballet class in my life, but I’ve always been able to pointe my toes like a professional ballerina. Maybe it will come in handy some day!”

Patrick Dodd

age: 29 | Financial Advisor | Edward Jones

As an Edward Jones financial advisor, Patrick Dodd works closely with his clients to help guide them toward retirement, college planning, provide estate considerations, or review other goals they want to achieve so that they can enjoy what is most important to them and their family.  “I was raised in an environment where finances took a back seat and were stretched paycheck to paycheck. I remember telling myself that when I go to a restaurant, I don’t want to look at the price. I want to order what I want,” he remembers.  “During and after college, I was introduced to the financial side of things and realized at an early age how important it was to have a plan. So I made a mission to have my own practice so that I could coach and lead my clients to their vision of financial freedom. I do what I do to help my clients improve their quality of life for them and their family.”

Patrick was the first in his family to graduate from a university with a four-year degree.  He worked two-three jobs to pay for college and graduate debt-free while attending college full-time.  

Patrick admits that “being a dad is one of the best feelings in the world.”  He and his wife, Sarah, have a 3-year-old daughter, Adeline, and a 7-month-old daughter, Ada Blake.  Their family enjoys traveling to different places, and Patrick likes to hunt, as well.  Currently, Patrick is a member of Greater Texarkana Young Professionals, the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Gideons International.

 When pondering what he sees himself doing in 10 years, Patrick replies, “That is a good question.  I always ask my clients that question, but I never ask myself.  In 10 years, my plan is to still be in Texarkana, continuing to build my practice with Edward Jones, while hanging on for dear life to my two little girls because they will be trying to grow up on me.”

Best piece of advice:

“Son, can’t never could, and won’t never will.” Leroy Jones, Patrick’s grandfather

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I am not sure how it happened, but from time to time, I will have a church or a pastor call me and ask me to fill in and preach for them while they are away on vacation or without a pastor. I really enjoy it, and I am sure a lot people don’t know that about me.”

Jay Castle, DDS

age: 32 | General Dentist | CEO, Castle Family Dental

As a general dentist in the Texarkana community, Dr. Jay Castle loves enabling patients to be confident in their smiles. Whether it’s a small cosmetic procedure or a full oral reconstruction case, he enjoys making things better than before for his patients.

Dr. Castle and his wife, Bethany, bought Dr. Richard Gibson’s dental practice in 2018.  “Taking the risk and employing the effort to own and operate my own family practice at the age of 29 was my greatest professional accomplishment,” Jay explains.  “We have been fortunate to grow every year through our patients referring their friends and family.”

While he has been in school the majority of his life and has worked hard every week since, God has provided Jay with a strong, supportive wife and 5-year-old son, Brody.  This is his greatest personal achievement.  “Those two are always here for me and make me a better person,” he says.

For fun, Dr. Castle enjoys fishing, hunting, and spending time on Lake Greeson with his family.  As a proud member of the University of Arkansas alumni, he also keeps up with all things relating to the Razorbacks.  He loves working with organizations in the Texarkana community that benefit veterans and people with disabilities.  He provides donations and sponsorships to several nonprofit organizations and donates to many Texarkana area schools.  

In 10 years, Jay wants to grow throughout the community and also throughout his practice. He also looks forward to expanding relationships in the community and adding on to his practice while still maintaining the family feel.

Best piece of advice:

“Don’t worry about what everyone else is doing, just worry about what you’re doing.” – Dr. Torin Marracino

Name something about you that very few people know:

“Not only does everyone not know that the University of Arkansas has a bass fishing team, but I was on it!”