Age: 31
Family: Husband Bob Bechtold, son Robert (3.5 years old); daughter Lily (2.5 years old).
Pets: Savannah (very, very old).
Education: University of Florida, B.A. International Business; University of Florida, J.D. (Double Gator!).
Admitted to the Bar: 2005
Employed by: Mathis & Murphy
Field of practice: Medical Malpractice Defense, Business Litigation.
Professional organizations: Member of The JBA, Young Lawyers Section and Jacksonville Area Defense Counsel.
Community involvement: Board of Directors for Girls Inc., a national organization that encourages young woman to be smart, strong and bold.
How did you get involved?
A wonderful friend, Helen Peacock, told me of her involvement with the organization. She was kind enough to introduce me to the executive director, Beth Clark, an amazing advocate for young girls. The organization has after-school programs, outreach centers and summer camps that provide programming focused on keeping young girls on track for successful lives: improving literacy skills, healthy living/obesity prevention, pregnancy prevention and financial independence.
How can someone else get involved?
They can access “Volunteer” information at our website, girlsincjax.org, or call the organization at 731-9933. Volunteers can include everything from serving on the board to assisting the girls’ programs, fundraisers or cleanup days.
What have you learned/achieved through the experience?
I have learned that Jacksonville is full of amazing advocates that want to make young people in our community successful. Additionally, by educating and supporting our young girls, we can prevent many of the issues that plague our communities.
What was the last book you read or are reading?
“Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak. It’s a nightly ritual in my house.