Curious puzzle strategist best describes me. I take great pride in overcoming obstacles, sticking with something until WE figure it out and get the "win". Always learning and improving. Connecting people, ideas and resources gives me great pleasure. So, it is no surprise that my StrengthFinder results are Achiever, Activator, Arranger, Relator and Responsibility. Two of the best lessons that guide my everyday actions are seeking to understand others first and living by Rotary's 4-way test. I have been an active Rotarian for over 25 years and served in many different roles. Most currently have served as Area Governor, District Governor Nominee, District Public Image Chair, and DEI committee. I am a Rotary Leadership Institute Graduate, Pets Facilitator, Paul Harris Society Member, Benefactor, Will Watt Fellow, and Paul Harris Plus. Thankful to be married to my high school sweetheart and best friend for over 30 years. Grateful for & proud of my 2 grown children. I value my quiet time; family time, enjoy games, scuba diving, reading, traveling, serving and gardening

Heather holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and has practiced for 17 years holding positions of area director and vice president of operations for outpatient and rehab organizations. She also works as an adjunct professor teaching physical therapy assistants at Central Georgia Technical College. Heather holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications/Journalism and has worked in Alaska and Washington as a new reporter for newspaper, radio, and television.

She joined the Perry Rotary Club in 2008 and served as Perry Club president in 2014-2015. She has served in club leadership as Community Service Chair & Youth Services Chair. Heather has served District 6920 as Disaster Response Chair, End Polio Ambassador and a Rotary Leadership Institute Facilitator. She has represented Rotary Internationally administering polio vaccines in India, as a member of a Vocational Training Team to Myanmar, and as a participant in Rotary Day at The United Nations.

Heather also commits time and energy to her local community while serving as a member of Toastmasters International, Perry Chamber of Commerce, and Board member of the Perry Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Heather has been recognized as Star President and Club of the Year recognition during her term as Club President. Presented with Rotarian of the Year, Governor’s Leadership Award, and Emerging District Leader. She is a Paul Harris Major Donor, Paul Harris Society member, and Will Watt Fellow.

Heather was born and raised in Washington State and Alaska. She moved to Florida for graduate school and stayed in the South to practice physical therapy in middle Georgia. Heather is the mother of two daughters; Kayla 33, and Lauren 26 and grandmother to four grandchildren; Alta, Jayden, Gwen, Naomi. Heather loves the outdoors and spends much of her free time travelling, hiking, biking, & scuba diving. She is a huge movie buff and roots for the Seattle Seahawks.

Grew up in Charleston, S.C. Graduated from Harvard in 1973 with a BA in Economics. Worked in banking for many years before becoming an independent marketing consultant in 2002. Moved to Atlanta in 1992. Married to Donna Smythe. Three daughters, Laura, Louisa, Langdon, and five grandchildren.