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A North Carolina native, Rebecca was first introduced to Wilmington upon enrolling into UNCW’s Cameron School of Business.

“My time at UNCW really connected me with the city and made me want to stay here after graduating,” she said. “I got a job at Live Oak Bank, which has been a tremendous experience and has shown me the importance of enjoying your work.”

Live Oak Bank, a long-time supporter of StepUp Wilmington, is a philanthropic company that encourages its employees to get involved in the community. Rebecca was immediately drawn to this idea and, when given the opportunity, joined StepUp Wilmington’s board of young professionals.

“I was interested in a different approach to giving back to the community and wanted to be involved with a board that had the capability to make decisions that would result in change,” Rebecca shared. “When Bethany [Leighton] explained the opportunities for contribution towards StepUp, it was an easy decision to want to take part.”

Since joining the board in January 2019, Rebecca has not only worked to keep her colleagues on the board inspired, but was also the brains behind providing day planners to StepUp Wilmington participants in the organization’s 9-month life skills initiative.

On why she supports StepUp Wilmington, she says, “Above all, the mission of StepUp is what always brings me back to the “why” of being involved.” She continues, “When you meet the participants and see the impact of the organization, you realize how StepUp is simply giving individuals the tools needed to have autonomy over their lives. It is a breath of hope and support for those who need it most. It makes you thankful to be apart of a community filled with such resilient individuals.”

During her tenure on the board of young professionals, Rebecca hopes to be an asset for the organization in providing tools, resources and ideas that help to break the norm in our community.

Thank you, Rebecca, and the entire Board of Young Professionals for supporting our work!