Arlington Today Magazine Made Me Famous

When people ask me about my Arlington story, I always SMILE because Arlington didn't just become a place I visited for the past two decades, it became a place that helped shape my purpose.

After retiring in 2012 as a Regional Administrator with the Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons, following more than 25 years of dedicated public service, I knew my commitment to serving others wasn't ending, it was evolving. Arlington became the perfect place for that next chapter.

Arlington is where our family shop, stay, serve, and entertain. Whether attending community events, supporting local businesses, enjoying world-class entertainment, or volunteering throughout the city, Arlington has become an important part of our family's life.

I LOVE TO MAKE PEOPLE SMILE. Whether it's connecting a student to a scholarship, introducing a nonprofit to a community partner, helping a family find resources, or simply encouraging someone who needs a little hope, bringing joy to others has always been my mission.

Our family also has strong educational ties to Arlington. Our sons, William and Richard, attended Mansfield ISD schools located in the City of Arlington. Those schools helped shape the young men they have become today. Watching them learn, grow, and prepare for their futures was one of our greatest blessings as parents. Today, both are students at the University of Texas at Arlington, continuing their educational journey in a city that has played such an important role in our lives.

Over the years, I became known as a Professional Volunteer. To me, volunteering isn't just something you do, it's a way of life. Arlington has provided countless opportunities to serve, connect people, and build relationships that strengthen our community.

Some of my favorite memories are the community events where people from all walks of life come together to support a common cause. Arlington has a unique way of bringing people together, whether through education, business, sports, nonprofit work, or civic engagement.

Then something unexpected happened. Arlington Today Magazine began sharing stories about the work I was doing in the community. Not only did they publish a feature story about me, but I also appeared in several other editions while attending community events throughout the city. Friends would call and say, "VanDella, I saw you in Arlington Today!" Community members would stop me to say hello. It was always a wonderful reminder of how connected Arlington truly is.

In a way, Arlington Today Magazine made me famous. But it wasn't about me. It was about highlighting service, volunteerism, education, leadership, and community engagement. The magazine shines a spotlight on the people and organizations working every day to make Arlington a better place, and I was honored to be included among them.

The real celebrities in Arlington are the teachers, volunteers, city employees, nonprofit leaders, first responders, business owners, students, and residents who quietly make a difference every day.

As a Professional Volunteer, I have been blessed to serve as a connector, bringing together elected officials, nonprofits, educators, professional athletes, business leaders, and community advocates. I have learned that one introduction, one conversation, or one act of kindness can change someone's life.

Today, when I think about Arlington, I don't just think about a city. I think about memories, friendships, opportunities, and service. I think about a place that helped shape my purpose after retirement and a community that continues to inspire me to give back.

My Arlington story is not really about becoming famous. It's about finding a place where I could continue serving, continue connecting people, and continue making others SMILE.

And if Arlington Today Magazine made me famous, it was only because Arlington first gave me a place to call our CommUNITY.

My Hometown

When I was very young I traveled far and wide as an Air Force military dependent with my family. I promised myself that when I could I would settle down one day and never move again. Having lived here since 1971, I know that I have found my hometown. I have so many memories that choosing a few is so difficult. Meeting my future wife Lynda while working at Six Flags, beginning my OB/Gyn practice at Arlington Memorial Hospital in 1983, being elected to Chief of Medical Staff, selected Chair of the Board of trustees of Arlington Memorial, delivering thousands…

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Dr Shirley K 17 days ago

I’m impressed! So to have met you!

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