We're excited to connect with our alumni through our Darlington Connects series. Today, we hear from Janie Hortman (’03, LD ’13), a licensed professional counselor and owner of Growing Roots Counseling.
How and when did you land at Darlington for your education?
I began in Pre-K- the first Pre-K class!! I followed my brothers, dad, aunt, and uncle to Darlington, so a classic Dar Baby start.
What activities were you involved in during your Darlington experience?
I enjoyed cheerleading and soccer in middle school and switched to lacrosse in high school. I loved Phoenix Quest in the falls on the lake. I was the social chair prefect for Harris House my junior year, member of FCA, and I'm sure more but I can't remember!
What would you extract from your Darlington experience as the most useful skill set in your life today - whether professionally, personally, or both?
I think one thing that stands out in this stage of life is the importance of connections. Darlington was able to provide relationships from many different backgrounds and experiences and taking the time to learn from those and maintaining the relationships after school into life has been wonderful. I may not always be in contact with the same people, but having once known them or have the ability to always reach out is rare. I would also add these relationships did not just include my class but class levels above and below.
Which teacher(s), coach(es), and/or faculty were your strongest mentors?
It is so hard to say one above another. I had many that made a difference in their own ways. I think I look more at the overall idea. I had strong influences in many areas that supported me and encouraged me to be and do better.
Post Darlington, what was your educational path and then your professional path?
I went to UGA for undergrad and studied fashion merchandising. I lived in New York for a year and then settled in Atlanta as a boutique manager for about 10 years. I went back to graduate school at Richmont Graduate School for counseling and got my LPC and Registered Play Therapist license to work with children. I now live back in Rome with my own practice.
Can you shed some light on the Darlington relationships that have made/continue to make an impact in your life?
I still have dear friends from Pre-K and kindergarten that will always be close. Lauren Jane and I met then, and her strength through cancer our senior year has always been something I admire and has impacted me to not give up easily. I would also say my dad, who is also a graduate. He contributes Darlington for parts of his servant heart and he certainly has modeled that for me and how to give back to those behind us.
For our young alums, those in their undergraduate pursuits, what advice would you offer concerning the first steps in their careers post-undergrad?
The first steps are just that -- first steps. You don't have to expect to be starting out in a dream job or what you want to do for the rest of your life, but each move you make will lead there with patience and hard work.
You give back to Darlington in more ways than one- can you share why you give back to your alma mater?
I was always told any amount matters but also your time matters, and found Darlington means that. I give back because the more I hear about the unique experiences the students have that are curtailed to their personalities or wants, the more I want more to be available. I also want the teachers pay to reflect how much they care and give to the students every day. I also participate so we can have a say in how the school continues to evolve in this world to serve the students in the best ways possible.
How would you be willing to help fellow alums in their educational or professional pursuits?
Any way needed -- mentor, talk about the process or different paths, give talks, etc.
Are you a member of Darlington Community (or do you know one) with an interesting career or community involvement? We'd love to spotlight you in a future blog! Please email connect@darlingtonschool.org if you are interested in being featured.
