Playful, entertaining, and absolutely informative, our Get to Know series allows the personalities of the faculty and staff who make up the Darlington Community to shine.
It’s been 20 years since she graduated from Darlington as a boarding student, but Julie (Wilson) Lucas (‘97) just couldn’t stay away from the Lakeside! She joined Darlington's Advancement Office in 2007 and was named chief advancement officer in 2016. As such, she oversees development, alumni relations and external affairs. She travels far and wide to visit with Darlington alumni and is excited to welcome her friends back for Alumni Weekend!
How long have you worked at Darlington?
This is my 11th school year working at Darlington.
Where did you grow up?
Tucker, Ga.
Tell us a little about your family:
My husband, Sam ('97, LD '13), and I have two little boys, Wilson ('28), and Hudson ('31), and our 12-year-old Shih Tzu, Lucy.
Why did you choose Darlington?
Too many reasons to count! The traditions, the beautiful setting, fun and dedicated students, interesting and devoted colleagues, awesome alumni and parents, and the list goes on and on!
What makes a good teacher?
Pushing students to do their best while being caring and supportive!
What music is playing in your car?
Every day is different, but this morning it was Elvis's, "Burnin' Love." Sam and I are making sure we introduce the boys to everything, especially all the classics!
Who was your favorite teacher (and why)?
Mr. Carswell! He was funny, caring, and always supportive of me. He made Algebra and Geometry bearable!
My favorite movie is…
"Steel Magnolias"
My favorite trip was…
I have different favorites for different reasons, but the most recent was a ton of fun! We went to South Bend for the UGA vs. Notre Dame game and spent the weekend in Chicago with some of our favorite Darlington friends!
If I could travel anywhere it would be…
I would love to spend some time in Spain. I've been there once for 72 hours for a work trip 12 years ago, but that doesn't count!
E-book or hardcover?
E-book
Beach or mountains?
Mountains
The last book I read for fun was…
"The Couple Next Door: A Novel" by Shari Lapena
Four people I’d like to take to coffee…
My favorite girls I lived in the dorms with my senior year who all now live far away: Jane Hess Nunez (’97), Sara Weeks Dima (’97), Mary Katherine Watkins Erwin (’97), and Rennie Pepper (’97).
The best advice I ever received was…
KISS - Keep It Simple, Stupid. Thank you, Mr. Carswell.
My hobby is…
I'm currently looking for one. Can anyone teach me how to sew?
Cats or dogs?
Dogs
Only my friends know…
Just how much I love Bravo reality shows.
When I want to crush karaoke, my song is…
Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody"
My favorite saying is…
Work hard and be nice.
What I like most about Darlington is…
The people. It's one huge family that spans the globe and I'm just proud to be one small part of it.
