Debby Guthrie

What makes Dawn Wildly Capable?

Debby’s extensive and impactful career with the Department of Human Services and in the non-profit sector is inspiring. Debby’s commitment to client care is unparalleled, consistently going above and beyond to ensure their well-being. Her unwavering dedication to making the world a better place not only reflects her professional ethos but also serves as an inspiration to others.” ALTA PRICE 

What makes you feel proud? 

My family. My husband and I still laugh and act silly together – even after almost 30 years of marriage. Together, we have a beautiful blended family. By example, I orchestrate and model both the value of providing meaningful experiences and time together over materialism. Nothing makes me prouder than seeing our adult children follow suit and provide similar experiences to their children. 

Who is the biggest influence in your life? Why? 

My mother was and is the biggest influence in my life, even though she passed away 18 years ago. She made me feel unconditionally loved, happy, hopeful, and supported. She was also an interactive and fun mom who embraced her family wholeheartedly and created beautiful and sometimes comical memories. When one of my extended family members tell me, “You act and look just like your mother,” it’s a huge compliment! I hope I’ve made her proud of the person I’ve become. 

What’s been the biggest obstacle in your life so far? 

I lost my four-year-old daughter in an accident many years ago. Clinging to my faith, this incident changed my perspective about who and what is important, whether my choices have eternal significance, and the realization that our life is but a breath. I am forever changed. 

What’s the single biggest problem you’d like to solve in your community? 

I currently work for a nonprofit who assists individuals in the criminal legal system through a trauma-informed service delivery. Facing substantial barriers such as trauma, mental health and substance use disorders, homelessness, lack of employment, the stigma of incarceration, and more, many of these individuals have lost hope, and hope is the basis of all positive change. Hope takes action! Individually and as a community, we can hold one another accountable, work collectively, and ultimately change lives. 

What keeps you up at night? 

I try not to let anything keep me up at night – even though it happens on occasion. Over time, I have learned that the things I lose sleep over are never as significant the next day.