“Tammy is the Chief Operating Officer at Negril. She is actively involved in events provides by the Boys and Girls Club and the Danville Regional foundation to name a few. Events such as these are the foundation for strengthening our community.
I chose Tammy to be a 2017 Community Strong Person of the Year because she is a local hero. She orchestrates a lot of awareness for for the community, and she give back tremendously.”
-Von Wellington, 2016 Showcase Magazine Community Strong Person of the Year.
Why is community involvement so important to you?
I believe that in order for change to take place you must be involved and willing to have a seat at the table to voice your opinions. It is the best way to serve, connect, and celebrate our community. Being involved gives me a sense of belonging, and it has developed many relationships which would not have taken place.
What inspires you to volunteer?
I come from a family of volunteers; therefore, I have seen the evidence of its importance all of my life. For me it is about giving back and making a difference in someone’s life. Simply put, it feels good just to see the smile and witness the appreciation of those served.
How do you balance life, work, and community involvement?
I am able to balance life, work and community involvement mainly because my children are now grown, and I have the time to be involved. While family is still important to me, it is also important to be able to give back to the community. I am able to still enjoy life, while being actively involved in my community.
What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?
The best advice ever given to me was by my father, Kirby Wright. Never be so comfortable in life that you stop growing…Keep pushing!
Who are your real-life heroes and why?
I have several. My parents, Kirby and Thelma Wright, because they instilled in me a work ethic that I am able to both see and practice daily. I am blessed to be able to work with my father daily at Negril and W&W Luxury Limousine Service. My godmother, the late Ruby Archie. I admired her as a professional as well as a community leader. She will always be my example of a woman who was able to balance work, life, and community.
What is it about Danville that makes it special to you?
Danville is special to me because it is home! I have so many fond memories from childhood to the present. During my lifetime, I have seen Danville transition from a textile industry to an industrial industry. I was able to see the advantages and benefits of the sale of the hospital and the organization of the Danville Regional Foundation which has initiated and funded many projects in the Danville, Pittsylvania County and Caswell County areas. Also, I am happy to say that I was able to see Averett College grow into a thriving university which is now one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the world. Danville has also become a well-known research center with the relationship established between IALR and Virginia Tech.
How do you recharge? What do you like to do outside of work and volunteerism?
I love to shop, travel and just enjoy a “do nothing” day, which does not happen too often.
What is your idea of happiness?
Happiness to me is seeing everyone getting along and enjoying life.
Do you have a favorite quote, and if so what is it?
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” ~ Maya Angelou
What are your favorite things to do in Danville?
Eating at the local restaurants, especially the new ones that come to the area and attending various events offered.
What are your visions for the future of Danville?
My vision for the future Danville is seeing it become a safe and healthy community for all citizens.
- Decrease in the crime rate
- Recruitment of specialty physicians
- An improvement to our school system through a decrease in dropout rate, increase the graduation rate and increasing the number of graduates attending college or technical school.
What are you most looking forward to in 2018?
I am most looking forward to the continued growth in The River District. It is exciting to see the downtown area become the focal point of our city with the new businesses coming to the area.