04 Sep 2024 Couple of the Month: Valerie and Brad Rogers
HER STORY:
I’m the quintessential “introverted extrovert.” I am determined, hyper-focused and ambitious, often withdrawing to achieve my personal and professional goals. But put me in a social setting, and I transform! I have never met a stranger and can easily spend an hour chatting with someone in Kroger or Walmart. My empathy for people and animals runs deep, and I absolutely love a good belly laugh.
RESIDENT OF: Conway
CHILDREN: Together we have five children. Aidan Lambe (24), Amy Lambe (21), stepchildren Faith Rogers (21), Grace Rogers (17) and Andrew Rogers (13).
EDUCATION: I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Arkansas Tech University. I am currently enrolled as a full-time student, working to obtain a Master of Science in Nursing as a family nurse practitioner and due to graduate in April 2025.
PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT: I’ve been a registered nurse (RN) at Conway Regional Health System for 21 years, specializing in Labor and Delivery and the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care). I’m fascinated by the deep, intuitive understanding; extensive knowledge; and mastery of skills required in women’s health, obstetrics and neonatal care. Witnessing the miracle of birth, comforting families through tragic losses and educating patients on caring for themselves and their new babies brings me immense joy and fulfillment.
AWARDS/HONORS: I’m honored to have been featured in Arkansas Money & Politics magazine as one of Conway Regional’s Champions of Health Care in both 2020 and 2022. In 2022, I was also recognized as one of the “Top 10 Leaders of the Year.” Additionally, I received the Employee of the Quarter Award for the third quarter of 2019 and was proud to be awarded the Exceptional Performer Award in 2019, 2020 and 2021.
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: In honor of my grandma, Ceceilia Norman, and my best friend, Mary Jo Alexander, both breast cancer survivors, I proudly served as a committee member for the first annual Tee Off for Tatas golf tournament at Conway Country Club in 2022. Collaborating with peers from Conway Regional Health Foundation and fellow board members from Conway Country Club, I helped direct the funds raised to Conway Regional’s Beautifully You Boutique, which supports local breast cancer patients. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, I was active in a local American Cancer Society chapter, raising awareness and funds for cancer research through events like the Lip Sync for Life battle campaigns in 2018 and 2019. Additionally, I am a dedicated member of Central Baptist Church and volunteer with youth group activities, including the Light the Night event during Halloween.
HOBBIES/SPECIAL INTERESTS: I love diving into home improvement and DIY projects, and there’s nothing better than getting my hands dirty in my backyard garden. Family time is a blast, whether we’re at the lake or beach or hitting the slopes for some snow skiing. Camping, hiking, traveling to new places and cheering on the Arkansas Razorbacks or UCA football teams are some of my favorite pastimes. I also enjoy watching most sports and spending time with my two adorable dogs, Lambchop and Gus.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CENTRAL ARKANSAS: I love how Central Arkansas, especially Conway, is thriving with new local businesses and infrastructure growth. Despite this boom, it still holds onto that charming small-town vibe, where the sense of family and community is ever-present.
HIS STORY:
I’m full of energy, positivity, and resilience! I love running, hitting the gym and spending quality time with my family. My passions include DIY projects, reading, cooking, traveling, and anything outdoors.
RESIDENT OF: Conway
EDUCATION: I earned a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Central Arkansas.
PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT: Able Therapy at Conway Human Development Center (CHDC).
AWARDS/HONORS: I have a black belt in Taekwondo under Bob Blankenship.
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: I’m an active member of Central Baptist Church in Conway, where I love volunteering with our youth group. One of my favorite events is Light the Night, but I also enjoy helping out with various activities and events at CHDC.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT CENTRAL ARKANSAS: I love the slower pace of life in Central Arkansas, where easy access to outdoor activities and the charming rural feel make it a perfect place to call home.
Their STORY:
Val and Brad, unknowingly Facebook friends through mutual connections, first interacted in 2019 when Val “liked” a funny post that Brad made about his kids. That summer, Val visited Central Baptist with a friend while searching for a new church. Brad recognized Val from her FB pictures and felt it was a God thing. After some research through mutual friends, they started communicating, leading to a casual double date where they discovered many shared interests.
After dating for two years, Brad took Val on a hiking trip to Pinnacle Mountain
and surprised her with a romantic proposal; Val said YES!
Their wedding was an intimate brunch with family and friends at Hole in the Wall Café on January 8, 2022. Embracing a second chance at love brings challenges but also many rewards. Their shared love for God, each other, and family helps them navigate this journey. “Blended and Blessed” is their mantra!
