Mandy Golleher, 31
National Park Medical Center’s director of communications and marketing
Who is Mandy Golleher?
I grew up in Cabot and Dardanelle, where I graduated valedictorian of the class of 2002. I graduated cum laude from the University of Central Arkansas Honors College in 2006, where I was a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority. I married Phillip in 2009 here in Hot Springs, and enjoy time with my step-twins Ty and Kayla, my niece, Hyla, and dogs Roxy, Pepper and Josie.
I have spent the past eight and half years with National Park Medical Center where I lead the employee activities programs, volunteer programming, patient satisfaction committees, as well as NPMC’s marketing and community relations. I enjoy serving the Hot Springs community on the board of directors for the Mid-America Science Museum and a Hot Springs Village Area Chamber Ambassador. I am also highly involved with the American Heart Association Heart Ball and Sweethearts Program, and have helped lead NPMC to be the highest fundraiser in central Arkansas for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and achieve the Pacesetter Award for the United Way of Garland County. I am an associate member of the Junior Auxiliary of Hot Springs and a graduate of Leadership Hot Spring’s Class XXII, and I am director for the annual Christmas Scramble golf tournament benefiting the Kamo’s Kids foundation.
What one experience in your life really defined you?
Losing my mother in a car accident at age 12. She was 42, and an amazing mother, teacher and human being. It made me realize from a young age never to take life or your loved ones for granted, and to appreciate the important things in life — like family, helping others, and living each day to the fullest.
What do you love about Hot Springs?
We have a rich, interesting and unique history, that has been very well-documented, and a beautiful, vibrant downtown which just keeps getting better. Hot Springs is a melting pot of people from all over the U.S. and all over the world, and there is ALWAYS something going on in Hot Springs! Almost everyone loves to spend time outdoors, and Hot Springs has an endless number of outdoor activities, and beautiful views from the lake to the mountains and everything in between. We also have such a giving community. There are so many organizations with great causes to lend your time, efforts and talents.
What do you enjoy doing for fun and relaxation?
I enjoy sewing and all types of crafting, especially with my niece, Hyla.
Tell us something few people know about you.
I have lupus nephritis. I was diagnosed at age 20, and went through six months of chemo. I’m fortunate to have amazing doctors, like Dr. Ross Bandy, who saved my life, and now that I am healthy, the experience has helped me to have firsthand experience as a patient as I lead NPMC’s patient satisfaction committee.
Where do you see Hot Springs 10 years from now?
Hot Springs will have one of the most thriving downtown communities in the state, and will continue to attract visitors from around the world. My hope is that we will see an increased farm-to-table restaurant presence and upscale loft-style living quarters in the area, to attract a younger population to that area as well. I also see our arts community continuing to grow, making Hot Springs an even better place to live and to visit.