Cathy Garland

Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Cathy Colver Garland has lived in more than 35 places before finally putting down roots in the Roanoke Valley over 11 years ago. She and her husband, Mickey, are raising their two children, Josiah (11) and Cassia (9), and have fallen in love with the region’s unique blend of small-town charm, outdoor adventure, and strong sense of community.

Cathy is a writer, consultant, speaker, and mentor who works from home helping businesses, schools, and nonprofits with communications, marketing, and organizational strategy. Before becoming a full-time consultant, she spent more than 20 years in educational technology, eventually serving as Chief Operating Officer of the company that pioneered one of the world’s first learner-centered learning management systems. Earlier in her career, she studied at Mercy University in Georgia and worked with women through Wellspring Living and other nonprofit organizations in Atlanta. Today, she also enjoys mentoring women and providing professional development coaching to leaders and organizations.

A published author of one nonfiction book and two devotionals, Cathy has written for a variety of online magazines and publications on topics ranging from parenting, education, and community life to leadership, personal growth, and faith. She enjoys telling transformational stories or helping readers navigate life’s challenges.

When she’s not writing, Cathy is happiest making memories with family and friends. One of her favorite local outings is spending a warm afternoon wading in the Pigg River at Waid Recreation Park before stopping for ice cream at Homestead Creamery. Her family’s favorite festival is the Kite Festival in Salem each spring. She also loves watching her daughter roller skate, browsing antique stores, making memories at community festivals, and taking advantage of the Roanoke Valley’s wonderful library system.

As one of nine children herself, Cathy appreciates places that bring families together. What she loves most about raising a family in the Roanoke Valley is that meaningful adventures don’t have to be expensive or elaborate. Whether it’s story time at the library, a community festival, or an afternoon spent skipping rocks at Carvin’s Cove, she believes some of the best family memories are made close to home.