Photo by Liz Chrisman
Age: 65
Hometown & Years in the River Valley: I’ve lived in the River Valley all of my life. I was born in Clarksville and our family moved to Russellville when I was seven years old.
Occupation: Recently retired from Arkansas Tech University after a 46 year career.
Family: My husband, Tom, and I are blessed with a son and daughter-in-law, a daughter, three granddaughters, and a grandson.
1) What is your favorite book?
While working and pursuing my degrees, I didn’t make reading for pleasure a priority because I am the type of reader who has a difficult time putting down a good book. That didn’t work well then! I cannot name just one favorite book but when I make time for reading, I enjoy mysteries and Regency-period fiction.
2) Dog or cat? Why?
We currently have an outdoor cat who adopted us several years ago but I’ve had both dogs and cats throughout my life. I give the edge to dogs because, at least in my experience, they are more loyal and affectionate than cats.
3) What do you think is the most positive aspect of living in the River Valley?
We live in a beautiful area where recreational activities are plentiful. We who are native of this area should never take it for granted. While serving on a committee at Tech a few years ago, I was reminded of our good fortune when newer faculty and staff members listed the beauty of this area as a top reason for relocating here.
4) What’s something no one would ever guess about you?
Colleagues and acquaintances are always surprised when they learn that I am an avid NASCAR fan. My first in-person race several years ago sold me on the sport. Far from just driving around and around a track (how I hear people describe it), racing requires strategy and athleticism.
5) What is your favorite music genre and artist? Why?
Even though I am not musically talented, I can’t imagine life without it. I enjoy songs in every genre. My favorite artists are singer-songwriters…the queen of which for me is Joni Mitchell. Her lyrics paint a picture. Jewel has a similar artistic ability with lyrics.
6) What do you nerd out on?
Downton Abbey and the Royal family (past and present) feed a long-time fascination with Britain.
7) Where is the one location in the River Valley you would tell a first-time visitor that
they must go?
Visitors and newcomers should visit Main Street Russellville, the Lake Dardanelle Visitor’s Center, and the Russellville Area Chamber of Commerce to learn about the various sites and activities of interest.
8) Pizza, tacos, cheeseburger, or fried chicken? Any particular reason why?
These are all favorites but fried chicken is a comfort food, probably because it reminds me of Sundays at my grandma’s house when I was a young girl.
9) What is your favorite quote? Could be from an inspirational person, could be be an original.
“Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely…” by Ralph Waldo Emerson
10) One person (past or present) you’ve never met, with which you’d like to spend a
day and what would you choose to do with that time?
It would be incredible to sit in the presence of Vincent Van Gogh and watch him create one of his masterpieces, preferably The Starry Night.
