The Smyrna Vinings area is fortunate to have a wealth of remarkable women who have made significant impacts through their leadership, activism, and service to the community. From champions of education and mentorship to trailblazers in business and advocacy, these six influential ladies have left an indelible mark, inspiring others with their dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference.
Vanessa Watkins: Principal of Purpose
Vanessa Watkins' path to becoming Principal of Campbell High School was unconventional. Beginning her career as a CPA and auditor at a Big Six accounting firm, she discovered her true passion while serving as a youth director alongside her husband, who was a pastor. Recognizing her love for working with young people, Vanessa pursued a Master's in Teaching followed by a Doctorate in Education.
For 11 years, Vanessa served as a principal in Cobb County before ultimately being appointed as Principal of Campbell High School. In this capacity, she leads with unwavering dedication, placing a strong emphasis on fostering relationships and creating a culture of inclusivity and excellence.
At the core of Vanessa’s vision for Campbell High School is the belief that every student deserves support and empowerment to reach their full potential, each and every day. This principle is encapsulated in the motto, "Every Student, Every Day," emphasizing the commitment to ensuring that every student receives the necessary support to thrive academically and socially.
Two annual events hold particular significance for Vanessa and the Campbell High School community: the International Festival and the MLK Awards Ceremony. These cherished traditions serve as powerful reminders of the school's rich diversity and collective achievements, uniting all 3,000 students, 250 staff members, and numerous community members in celebration and recognition.
Recognizing the vital role of school-community partnerships, Vanessa underscores the importance of collaboration in creating a supportive environment for all. By working together and offering mutual support, schools can positively influence their communities while fostering a culture that promotes lifelong learning and growth, appealing to individuals from diverse backgrounds and interests.
Outside of her role as principal, Vanessa finds joy in spending time with her family, including her high school sweetheart husband, adult children, grandson, and extended relatives. She also enjoys traveling, engaging in HIIT workouts, reading, and baking.
Shannon Bartlett: Leading Family Tradition
Shannon Bartlett, President and CEO of Bartlett Heating and Cooling, has been immersed in the family business practically since birth. Growing up within the company's walls, she started working there during her sixth-grade summer breaks, a routine she maintained throughout high school and college, and she continues to be an integral part of the team today. Despite the HVAC industry's predominantly male-dominated nature, Shannon's presence brings a valuable female perspective to the company, contributing to its success.
Community involvement holds a significant place in Shannon's heart and Bartlett's philosophy. They actively support local initiatives such as the Smyrna Little League, contribute to youth sports events in Cobb County, and participate in safety education programs. Their commitment extends to supporting small, local charities and recognizing educators through annual contests benefiting Cobb County schools.
Balancing the demands of a family-owned business with personal interests requires finesse, but Shannon manages it with ease. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends, exploring hiking trails, and delving into a good book. With her daughters grown, Shannon looks forward to embracing more travel adventures in the future. Shannon Bartlett's journey is a testament to dedication, adaptability, and a strong sense of community responsibility within both her professional life and personal life.
Margot Wright: Driving Success
Margot Wright's journey into the automotive industry was an unexpected one, thrust upon her by the tragic loss of her late husband, Charles Wright, in 2013. Despite having no prior experience, Wright inherited T3 Automotive, the business Charles had founded in 1995 based on principles of honesty and affordability. With two locations to oversee, Wright faced an enormous and demanding task, made even more daunting by her lack of knowledge about car repair or the automotive industry itself.
Prior to this pivotal moment, Wright had been a paralegal at a commercial real estate company while raising her two children. Navigating the male-dominated automotive field required immense determination and trust in her employees. Through trial and error over the years, T3 Atlanta evolved, uniting into the current award-winning team of talented and hardworking technicians whom Wright deeply respects.
Despite her demanding career, Wright finds solace in her passions for drawing, painting, traveling, and spending time outdoors. Above all, she cherishes her time with her children, Logan and Carolyn, and her Great Dane, Blu.
Deeply rooted in the Smyrna Vinings community, Wright values her connections with local businesses and customers. "Many of our customers live in the Smyrna Vinings area and are some of the most delightful people I've ever had the pleasure of meeting," she says, exemplifying her commitment to customer service and community engagement.
Ramona McCary: Smyrna's Community Champion
Ramona McCary, a cherished figure in Smyrna, Georgia, epitomizes the essence of community spirit and altruism. Having relocated from Greensboro, N.C., to Atlanta in 1973, she found herself drawn to Smyrna's small-town charm in the early 90s, captivated by its blend of rural tranquility amidst urbanity. This allure, coupled with familial ties, anchored her roots firmly within the community.
Transitioning from a career in advertising and marketing communication to teaching as a Special Ed parapro and later pursuing paralegal studies, Ramona's journey reflects her unwavering commitment to growth and service. Her involvement in various non-profit organizations, including the Smyrna Public Safety Foundation and Support Smyrna, stems from a desire to directly impact lives and foster a sense of community.
Ramona's commitment to community service extends to her role as Auxiliary Chaplain for the American Legion Post 160, where she provides unwavering support to veterans and their families, epitomizing empathy and compassion. Her dedication to community welfare is palpable, as she tirelessly works to uplift those in need, striving to bring hope and comfort to every individual she encounters.
Despite her busy schedule, Ramona finds refreshment in outdoor activities like walking around Smyrna's picturesque pond and helping to exercise and care for a few horses at a nearby ranch. Her love for her community is palpable, evident in the countless lives she has touched and the meaningful connections she fosters. Ramona McCary stands as a beacon of hope and compassion, enriching the Smyrna-Vinings area with her selfless dedication and unwavering spirit.
Sisters of Success: Education, Resilience, Community Impact
Twin sisters Dr. Marian Muldrow and Dr. Marilyn Thomas are not only influential figures in Smyrna Vinings but also shining examples of resilience, determination, and dedication to their respective fields. Marian, the Senior Director of Operations and Head of Content Development for New Perspectives SEO, and Marilyn, the Director of South Cobb Early Learning Center in Cobb County School District, shared insights from their childhood, career journeys, and advice for aspiring professionals.
Marian recounted growing up in challenging circumstances that fueled her determination. Witnessing her sister's resilience and recognizing education as a pathway to success shaped her focus on building a better future through hard work and education. Marilyn's love for learning and experiences with inspiring teachers laid the foundation for her career in early childhood education. Her passion for fostering the growth and development of young minds has been a driving force throughout her journey.
Both sisters faced significant challenges along their paths. Marian tackled financial constraints and societal expectations by working multiple jobs, seeking scholarships, and embracing self-directed learning. Marilyn navigated the diverse needs of children and embraced educational technology while staying true to hands-on, experiential learning.
Their success can be attributed to relentless determination, a strong work ethic, adaptability, and continuous learning. Marian emphasizes the importance of a supportive network and staying true to values, while Marilyn highlights the significance of passion, professional development, and adaptability.
In their free time, Marian and Marilyn enjoy exploring the vibrant Smyrna Vinings community, taking advantage of local attractions, dining experiences, and community events.
As influential ladies in Smyrna Vinings, Marian and Marilyn embody the spirit of perseverance and passion, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their communities. Their dedication to education and service serves as a testament to the transformative power of determination and hard work, enriching the lives of those around them and shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
