Art Medium: Oil painting with gold

When and how did you discover your artistic talent? What led you to your medium, and what do you love about it?
I was always an artist—but a performing artist. Painting wasn’t even on my radar until much later in life. At 50, I returned to college to finish my undergraduate degree, planning to pursue a master’s degree in theater so I could teach at the college level. To avoid writing papers and group projects, I signed up for painting classes instead. What a surprise it turned out to be!

The very first time I put paint on canvas, I was captivated. I loved the feel of the brush, the texture of the paint, and the way something invisible in my mind could suddenly take form before my eyes. I had never drawn or painted before except in coloring books as a child. But from that moment, I knew I had discovered something that was truly mine.

Art Medium: Dancer and Costume Designer / Co-owner of
Belle Âme Dresses

When and how did you discover your artistic talent?
This is something I have been asked by almost every client: “How did you get into making these beautiful costumes?” I guess we need to begin with my love for all things that sparkle! My childhood was filled with creative play and imagination! I’ve danced since the age of 3, trained in ballet, tap, and jazz. My grandmother, a sewing machine wizard, regularly created tulle and tutu creations for me and my sister to perform our own shows in the living room.

Mary Olodun, ND, has led a remarkable career of service to her country and clients.

As a sickly child who missed 56 days of kindergarten, Mary became well-acquainted with the modern healthcare system throughout her childhood. With a special talent for planning her career steps, young Mary obtained her nursing degree right out of high school and her license as a practical nurse in 1989. Along the way, Mary encountered many moonlighting clinicians who educated her about the power of natural medicine. Time and again, Mary bore witness to the positive effects of holistic medicine. Through the years, her interest in a career in holistic medicine only intensified, but her career path would first take a

In fifth grade, Erin Benjamin decided that she would be an eye doctor. It’s rather unusual for an 11-year-old child to know her life’s vision with such certainty—and to hold steadfast until realizing her dream.

“In middle school I knew I was really good in biology and physics, where I excelled. I was not interested in history or English. There was no other option for me. I wanted to go into medicine,” Erin said. “I was fascinated by my eye doctor. I am very near-sighted and have worn glasses and contacts since I was 15. Mostly it was my dad who influenced me. He said it was a great field to get into because I would follow patients all their lives, it isn’t messy like surgery, and it has better hours.” Erin explained that she wanted kids and marriage, and as an eye doctor, she wouldn’t get called back on weekends.

Dr. Heidi Harrington has many qualities that you’d hope to find in a plastic surgeon.

She’s creative. She’s artistic. She’s unapologetically detail oriented. She’s passionate about the prospect of improving her patients’ lives and confidence through plastic surgery.

She’s no stranger to the concept of teamwork, either. While leading Beaufort Memorial’s Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics practice, she collaborates closely with board-certified, fellowship-trained breast oncology surgeons in the hospital’s Breast Care & Surgery Program. Together, they’re building a comprehensive breast reconstruction program—bringing life-changing procedures to breast cancer patients right here at home.

Jerri Barden Perkins, M.D. knew she wanted to be a physician from a young age.

Jerri graduated from Mary Washington College and was the first female student enrolled at the Medical College of Virginia in 25 years. During her medical school training, Jerri’s mentor secured a National Institutes of Health (NIH) research training grant for her, and soon she fell in love with medical research. Her career path set, Dr. Perkins became an award-winning and world-renowned researcher, scientific research paper author, educator, and lecturer on arthritis and infectious disease research. Following graduation from medical school, she began a three-year fellowship at the NIH where she helped rediscover and name an organism responsible for arthritis: the JB strain.

Danielle Miller grew up on Hilton Head Island when it was quiet and had two-lane roads. 


Gatherings of family and friends took place almost every Saturday and Sunday at her grandfather’s home, and they were always centered around a lot of good food. Danielle was raised in a large family where old ways of traditional island living, like fishing and crabbing, were taught to her at a young age. These special pastimes created many fond childhood memories for Danielle.

Her grandfather’s place also had a lush garden that was planted every year. They all referred to it as “the field”. Danielle helped harvest the fresh vegetables for the week ahead, picking sweet ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, yellow squash, and the like. Wild berries grew in abundance nearby, and when mixed with a little chew on some sugar cane from the field, it was like heaven. These age-old Gullah traditions were instilled in Danielle at a young age and have been a part of who she is, ever since.

Amanda, you are the Library Director for Beaufort County, meaning you oversee the operations of all libraries in Beaufort County. This is a huge job, but let’s start at the beginning. How did you come to the realization you wanted to be a librarian?
I’ve always been drawn to the idea of being a connector, helping people find exactly what they need. In college, libraries gave me a quiet place to study, but it was also where I realized I was good at finding information and loved helping others discover answers. That’s when I learned that as a librarian, I could do all those things to guide people in finding answers to their questions.

Life is all about playing the hand you were dealt like it’s exactly what you wanted. That’s how 32-year-old Caroline Campbell, who was born with Down syndrome, moves through her days and approaches the things she sets her mind to. You may have heard of Caroline and her adventures and accomplishments because she’s done some amazing things, exemplifying dedication, positivity, and cheerfulness in all she does.

In the June 2014 edition of Pink, we first met Caroline as an active 21-year-old who enjoyed taking dancing lessons and singing at church. However, her biggest claim to fame is she had set out to handwrite the Bible word-for-word. We are thrilled to announce she has completed this task, filling up 47 three-ring notebook binders, all stored carefully in her bedroom. Her Christian faith is a big part of her life, and she loves and reads scripture daily.

Roberta Weber knows how to get things done.

Born and raised in the Badger state, Roberta attended and graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison with a degree in speech and hearing pathology. She moved to Chicago where she raised a family and began her 40-year career in healthcare. She managed a radiology department and a large orthopedic office before becoming the Physician Administrator at Highland Park Hospital for just over 10 years. In this position, Roberta gained valuable experience in physician relations and quality, patient-focused services. Moreover, she built an enviable reputation and became w

Do you remember feeling that sensation as a kid when you walked into a candy store—eyes wide as you scanned the multitude of candy jars? It was pure joy knowing you would definitely buy something, but oh, the choices!

Walking into the The Spirited Hand gift store gives one the same sense of delight and expectation as your eyes settle on something of beauty one second, and then gaze upon something different, equally as delightful and appealing.

In every corner of the Lowcountry and across the front lines of national defense, women are rising to the call of duty with unwavering resolve, strength, and compassion. From police officers walking neighborhood beats to firefighters battling roaring blazes, and soldiers deployed overseas to paramedics responding to crises at home, these women are redefining what it means to protect and serve. Their presence in roles once dominated by men is not just a testament to progress—it’s a powerful reminder that courage knows no gender.

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career?
I originally went to Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) thinking I was going to be a science major, but what I found there was a different calling. EKU has an outstanding fire science program, and as I explored public service careers, I realized how drawn I was to the fire service—the challenge, the teamwork, and the opportunity to make a real difference. I earned my degree in Fire Safety Engineering Technology with a minor in Police Administration, and from there, my passion for serving and protecting others truly took root.

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, and what do you love about it?
During college, I never thought about going into a law enforcement career. I happened to fall into my career path after finishing graduate school. I knew I wanted to do something related to natural resources and conservation, but I did not know to what level. The best aspect of my job with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is I have the ability to make it what I want. I get to use officer discretion with every interaction. Even if an individual gets a ticket, they rarely leave with a bad attitude. Interacting with and educating the public so they can continue enjoying our resources is my favorite part of my job.

Congratulations! You just graduated from the Naval Academy. Tell us about your journey in getting to and through the Academy.
When I was applying to colleges, I struggled to find my “why.” I knew I wanted to do something meaningful, and I couldn’t find an avenue to do that at a conventional school. My grandfather grew up in Connie Maxwell’s Children’s Home in Greenwood, SC, and enlisted in the Navy when he turned 18, during Vietnam. His time in the Navy dramatically shaped his life and made him into the man I look up to. I realized I wanted the opportunity to lead sailors like my grandpa, to provide them with mentorship and support in pursuing a job well-done and a meaningful community. So, I applied to the Naval Academy. Now that I have graduated and commissioned, I’m excited to get into the submarine force to work as a member of such an incredible team.

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career? How and/or why did you What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career?
In 2021, I attended my younger brother’s boot camp graduation at Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego. He truly inspired me and within a few days I met his recruiter. Before then, I never had thought of joining the Marine Corps. 

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career, and what do you love about it?

Law enforcement is my family’s business, so it always felt like a natural path. I knew it would be both rewarding and exciting. My passion for service and commitment led me to policing.

I knew I had the strength, discipline, and mindset to do the job, and more importantly, I felt called to it. It spoke directly to my belief: If not me, then who? I couldn’t ignore the pull to serve, protect, and be part of something bigger than myself. I wanted to be the one who stepped up when others wouldn’t, to stand in the gap when others stepped back. That sense of purpose has guided me from the beginning and continues to shape how I lead and serve today. I love this career because it offers a front-row seat to humanity, witnessing the best in people and being present when others need you the most. I especially find purpose in working with the community to make Beaufort a great place to live and raise a family.

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career?
I chose EMS (Emergency Management Services) because it brings something different every day. I never go into work and have the exact same thing as the day before or even the week before. It can be fast-paced, and it forces me to think and act quickly. At this department, we rotate between the ambulance and the fire engine. All of us have to be knowledgeable and know both sides. One day I might be assigned to the medic unit, the next day I’m on the engine. This keeps things even more interesting. I’m never bored, there’s always something to do—running calls, training, completing reports, learning something new, reviewing what I’ve learned, cleaning the apparatus or station, the list goes on and on.

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career? How and/or why did you choose your branch of service? What do you love about it?
Upon graduating high school, I knew I wanted to be in a career where I could help people. I started going through EMT/paramedic school but found myself joining the U.S. Air Force, where I became a military police. Once I separated from the military, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but the opportunity of becoming a school resource officer came up and I couldn’t turn it down! This position lets me serve and help others, especially children.

A chance encounter on the Fourth of July in New York City brought Stephanie and JR Brown together. She had gone to see the fireworks where there were hundreds and hundreds of people. Wanting to get away from the huge crowds, she got a table in a restaurant, which was also very crowded. In a matter of minutes, JR appeared and asked if he could share her table. She said yes.

Turning into Okatee River Farms, one drives through wide-open, beautiful wrought iron gates. They seem to welcome you to another world, where there is a sudden shift, both in the landscape and attitude. The hectic traffic is still close by, but it’s as if it evaporates once you pass through the gates. It feels like you can let your guard down, relax, and breathe. A dirt road leads you to the farm, but the first thing you notice is a magnificent, huge, oak tree that is probably 250-300 years old. Its beauty is captivating, and the Sanders family chose to use its image in their logo.

Sea Sea’s Honey Hole Bait & Tackle is located at the very end of 8th Street in Port Royal, near the Sands. It is a concrete block building that has been there for as long as anyone can remember. It’s been spiffed up quite a bit with rocking chairs, swings for kids, and picnic tables outside. And inside you see every kind of bait (minnows, eels, fiddlers), tackle gear (rods, reels, artificial bait), and t-shirts. There are a few tables near a small kitchen on the left. The dynamo that got this business up and running is Isis (named after an Egyptian goddess) Nunez, and she is definitely a “fireball”, as described in my assignment.

There’s a certain feeling one gets when spotting a shrimping trawler offshore with its ample, outstretched arms beckoning nature to fill its bows. I don’t know if it’s the simplicity an ancient craft, or the magic of how nature provides that connects us so deeply to the sea and its harvest. But one thing is for sure, the bounty makes us all grateful for those fisherman who go out and brave the sea to get it.

With a legacy of well over 100 years fishing and trawling Lowcountry waters, the Toomer Family roots run wide throughout the Lowcountry and deep in that big blue Atlantic.

“Honey, enjoy it!”

This is the advice Lucy DeWitt would give her younger self knowing what she knows today at 100 years old. The great news is somehow she had this intuition in her all along because she’s had a wonderful life and truly has no regrets.

I met Lucy at Salon Shelter Cove on Hilton Head Island right after her standing Wednesday hair appointment. She has been going to salon owner and stylist Carla Bozeman for 26 years. It was Carla who introduced me to Lucy, writing me before Christmas, “You should do a feature on Lucy, my client. She is so stylish and has a long, rich history on Hilton Head. Keep in mind she’ll be 101 in May!”

Glenn Jarrell built his house 69 years ago in a pristine location on the Little Chechessee River. He chose the site because he loved to waterski and enjoyed doing tricks on his skis. He met the love of his life, Louise, and married her 45 years ago. Louise and Glenn’s river home became the gathering site for three generations of family. Louise had four daughters from a previous marriage, and there are now 13 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, and 22 cousins – with lots of babies still coming!

Abbie: Being an advocates of Montessori education, when were you first exposed to the Montessori way, and what brought you to wholeheartedly believe in Montessori methodology?
My parents were early believers in Montessori education, though I was too old by the time Montessori schools were developing around the US. I think child-directed, experiential learning spoke to them as highly educated people. When we children were of marriageable age and considering having children of our own, they spoke often to us about the value of the Montessori way.

Tennis brought Margie and Stan Smith together. At age 13, Margie was a ball girl at a tennis championship that Stan had just won. He was 17. After the match, Margie told her mother, “Stan Smith will never notice me. Mother was very prophetic. She told me, ‘Wait five years ‘til your 18th birthday.’ On my 18th birthday, Stan asked me out!”

Stan and Margie have been married for 50 years. “I guess being married 50 years is a long time, and 50 seems like a big number. But looking back, it doesn’t seem that long. A marriage goes through different stages, and it’s important to communicate and try to understand the other person’s point of view. There’s a saying about walking in another’s moccasins. We’ve stayed married because we were in it for the long haul, and happily so. Besides, it’s too late for a divorce,” she joked.

Jamese Franklin knows who she is.

Born and raised on Hilton Head Island, Jamese hails from an athletic family. Her father coached track and field and football; her mom coached basketball. Growing up, Jamese played volleyball and soccer, but it was basketball that captured her heart. “In my family, you don’t really have a choice,” said Jamese. “Once you can walk, you pick up a sport.”

Kenzie McCracken exudes confidence and a desire to live her best life. From beauty pageants to Spartan races to motherhood, she does it all.

Kenzie was born and raised on Hilton Head Island and attended Hilton Head High School, where she was a cheerleader, earning a competitive cheer scholarship to Limestone University in Gaffney, SC. The University is a longtime sponsor of the South Carolina Peach Festival, which includes the Peach Festival Beauty Pageant held on the Limestone campus. With all the excitement surrounding the festival, Kenzie decided to compete.

Sarah Mitten plays hard both on and off the pickleball court. By day, Sarah is a realtor and a professional pickleball coach on Hilton Head Island at Island Rec Center. She arrived in the U.S. in 1987 on a full scholarship to nationally ranked Mississippi State to play Division I tennis. A student-athlete, Sarah played field hockey, soccer, and tennis but needed to choose which sport she would pursue. Tennis offered young adult Sarah the most opportunity, and she became a SEC scholar-athlete.