,PAWS Atlanta is excited to welcome six new members to our Board of Directors this year! Over the next few months, we'll be introducing them to you through our newsletter and social media. Stay tuned to meet them!

Donna Beezhold does it all - horseback riding, commercial real estate, caring for her kids, and attending the symphony. Get to know Donna by reading her interview with us below.

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Why did you decide to join the PAWS Atlanta Board?

I am very passionate about helping and protecting animals that have been denied basic care, love, and a sense of belonging. Having been adopted myself, I know how much of an impact this can make, and I believe it is important to offer assistance to those who can’t attain it themselves. I was particularly attracted to PAWS Atlanta because one of its primary goals and initiatives is to better the lives of their resident animals. It's not only about adoption; this organization brings specialized expertise and resources that will benefit the lives of these animals (and the owners) long-term, even after they have left their care. I think this is the type of support and assistance that will make the most impact on the animals and surrounding community, and I wanted to be a part of those efforts.

What type of work do you do outside of PAWS Atlanta?

I am a partner at Troutman Pepper that specializes in commercial real estate. My practice primarily focuses on representing commercial real estate developers in build-to-rent and multifamily projects, and representing hospitals and other healthcare systems in commercial real estate transactions that are subject to stringent federal and/or state regulations (such as, the Stark Law and the Anti-Kickback Statute). 

What do you like to do in your free time? Any hobbies?

I love equestrian horseback riding and spending time with my horse, Barça, who we say is our “youngest child.” My two daughters are also learning to ride, and we have a lot of fun riding together, hanging out at the horse barn, and spending time with the horses.

I also love the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (and music, in general). My kids, husband, and I regularly attend ASO events (especially, when they perform music from Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Star Wars). We are all nerds!

Tell us about your pets and your family.

We have 7 people in our family! 4 humans, 2 dogs, and 1 horse. My husband, Corey, is a financial trader at Homrich Berg, and former Slamball player. My two girls are Jocelyn (almost 9) and Finley (almost 6); Jocelyn is a competitive gymnast at Intown Stars Gymnastics, and Finley is on the swim team. Both love school and their respective sports, and they have a lot of personality!

Our two dogs are Payton (almost 13) and Luna (8). Payton was adopted from a shelter in Orlando, and Luna was adopted from a shelter in Atlanta. Their personalities are very different, but both loving and playful (especially with the kids). We consider them people and have voices for them at home so they can participate in our conversations!

Barça is our Thoroughbred horse and the youngest member of our family (albeit she is the biggest, coming in at nearly 17 hands). She just turned five years old in March, and we celebrated her birthday at the farm as a family. She was previously a racehorse, and even won a title down in Florida. But, now in her retirement, she gets to run over jumps with her mommy and gets pampered regularly! 

Anything else you want to share about you?

I was a former competitive gymnast.

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We love how well-rounded our Board Members are, and we're grateful for all of the skills and interests they bring to the table. Welcome to the PAWS Atlanta family, Donna! We're honored to have you on our team.