Name: Natalie LaVallee
Age: 30
Birthplace: Rochester, New York
Where do you live now? Fayetteville, NC
Employer: Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation
Job title: Marketing director
Who are your immediate family members? Husband, Kyle LaVallee; sister, Lindsay Johnson; brother, Jason Alteri; sister-in-law, Ashley Alteri; parents, Don and Teresa Johnson
Education: Lycoming College, Bachelor of Arts in digital communications, minor in photography, minor in commercial design
What community and professional groups are you affiliated with? Alpha Xi Delta sorority; Interaction Design Foundation; Triangle UXPA; International Economic Development Council; Association of the United States Army
Here’s the list:Meet the Fayetteville Observer’s 40 Under 40 award winners for 2021
What are your guiding principles? Keeping an open mind and staying humble. Both of those principles have always kept me grounded and positive.
How do you volunteer your time in the community? Throughout the past decade, I’ve volunteered at multiple animal rescues, adoption events and also fostered dogs—including here in Fayetteville. In the past, I have been heavily involved with the American Red Cross, as well as elementary student mentoring/tutoring after-school programs.
Who has helped you achieve success in your life and career? From a young age, my parents taught me how important it was to be able to provide for myself. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Kyle is also my No. 1 cheerleader, and I’m grateful for his constant encouragement. My family is incredibly supportive.
What goal would you like to accomplish before turning 40? The pandemic has stunted my travel goals for now, but I’d love to travel to several new countries by the time I’m 40. I hope I’m always traveling.
What’s your favorite book? “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
What are your hobbies? Traveling, photography and film
What’s your most prized possession? I HATE saying this, but my phone! I love knowing that I can carry something on me that keeps me connected to everyone and also has a decent camera for those “Kodak moments.”
If you had a theme song for your life, what would it be? “That’s Life” by Frank Sinatra
