For fifty years, I’ve been a part of Harford County, and it’s been an incredible journey. Being a mom to my daughters, Emily, 22, and Kaley, 18, is my greatest joy. With degrees in Child Development, Special Education, and Cognitive Behavior, plus certifications in Mental Health and Life Coaching, I’ve played various roles – from nurturing my daughters to empowering students at my 25-year-old preschool, Child First Discoveries. Coaching field hockey and basketball has fueled my passion for youth development, emphasizing teamwork and resilience. In 2019, I founded Our Village Wellness to support girls’ growth without judgment. Our recent GLOW meeting marked a milestone in empowering young women globally. Through my Women’s Empowerment Group, I address diverse topics, from business to mental health. Expanding efforts to Worcester County, Florida, and Costa Rica, I’m excited to create more safe spaces for girls and women. Amidst it all, the joy of motherhood remains central, shaping my identity and purpose.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My parents, Shirley and Dave Dixon, still reside in the same house where I spent my childhood, a home that has been a constant for 52 years. Both my daughters, Emily, 22, and Kaley, 18, had wonderful experiences growing up in Harford County. Having lived here for 50 years myself, I recently made the move to Ocean City with my boyfriend, Joe Poling, where we’ve been enjoying exploring new horizons, including travels to Costa Rica. My daughters are truly the heart and soul of my life, and they continue to thrive and excel in everything they do. They are my greatest success story, and I couldn’t be prouder.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
See my introduction.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
I enjoy spending quality time with my girlfriends, and you can often find me at Barrett’s On The Pike.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
50 years.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
The most fascinating individuals, in my opinion, are the women within the Women’s Empowerment Group. Despite our shared commitment to unconditional love, each of us has embarked on a unique journey that has shaped who we are today. Through sharing and supporting one another, we have collectively experienced tremendous growth.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
I love scary movies and shows.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
The advice I’d offer is to never regret anything from your past. Those experiences have shaped you into the person you are today. Making mistakes simply presents an opportunity to learn and improve. Striving to be the best version of yourself every day is all you can do. During tough times, it’s crucial to remember that there are people out there who love and support you.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Hoda Kotb. Barrett’s On the Pike. I feel like we would be great girlfriends. I admire how she uses her celebrity status for good.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
How people come together in the difficult times and not always in good times.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In five years, I envision myself as an even better version of who I am today.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
What you see is what you get with me. I can’t hide my feelings or my silliness, and I’m known for my openness and sometimes wild antics. People often describe me as an open book.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
10 I am always trying to be the person I can be.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
I find inspiration within myself to continuously grow, with being a mom as my biggest motivator. Setting a positive example for my children is paramount to me, and I’m committed to learning from the tough decisions I’ve faced. Through this, I aim to demonstrate how those experiences have shaped me into the person I am today. Taking my role as a role model for young girls seriously, I endeavor to lead by example and empower them to embrace their own journey with confidence.
Q: What community service or volunteer work do you participate in for your local community?
Gins Romanell and I have proudly served as co-chairpersons for Cinderella’s Closet MD for the past two years. This volunteer organization provides prom dresses and accessories to girls in need. In our time with the organization, we have assisted over 300 girls in Harford County, ensuring that they have the opportunity to attend their prom with confidence and joy.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Safe, cozy, love.
