Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m 32 – born and raised in Southern Shores. I’ve spent my whole life on the Outer Banks except for a six-year stint for higher education and trying out life in a big city. I am in the property and casualty insurance industry and am grateful to be able to live life here. I love anything outdoors – surfing, golf, gardening – as well as travel and the North Carolina Tar Heels.
What motivated you to join Outer Banks Forever’s Board?
All three of our national parks are such an important part of our community, history, and culture. Anyone who grew up or has spent time here has so many memories of what the parks have to offer – be it field trips, day trips, or surfing down south. So, when I heard they were putting together an organization to better them, it really piqued my interest.
Why is philanthropy important to you?
It was always a part of my life growing up – my parents set a great example of being involved so I didn’t have much choice. Plus, I feel charity is part of the Outer Banks’ culture. We’ve got a strong community that seems to always be giving back and helping out whenever someone is in need.
What do you want people to understand about Outer Banks Forever and our Outer Banks national parks?
The National Park Service isn’t able to solicit and actively fundraise on its own – so it has to make do with its budget allotted from the federal government. Unfortunately, more visitors don’t equal a higher budget or a higher income either. Outer Banks Forever is here to serve as the go-between or liaison between the National Park Service and those that want to give to better our local national parks group.
What is a favorite memory you have from your time serving on Outer Banks Forever’s Board?
I think it was a Spring Board meeting down at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse – it was a beautiful day and the waves were good. We got to see in person where our future Pathways project would be located, then Robert Poitras and I were able to surf for a few hours. A win-win.
What is your favorite way to enjoy or experience our Outer Banks national parks?
I love history, so checking out Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and the story of the “Lost Colony” never gets old. But my favorite is finding a stretch of beach on Cape Hatteras National Seashore during the summer without anyone else in sight. Not many vacation destinations are left where you can still do that during the high season.