By: Katie Holt and Sarah Zupko

As we move into the holiday season, we reflect on what we have to be thankful for as residents of Huntsville and North Alabama. Huntsville benefits from a growing music scene, natural beauty, consistent economic growth, and many philanthropic organizations that enrich the lives of everyone who calls this place home.

Above all, we’re grateful for the people who help North Alabama thrive; neighbors who give their time, leaders who inspire progress, and organizations that work tirelessly to build a stronger community.

We invited six community members to tell us what they are grateful for in their professional lives this year. Gratitude looks a little different for everyone, and their responses ranged from local leadership to supportive family members, leadership programs to generous donors.

Here’s what they shared they are thankful for in 2025:

Dan Amesbury: Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley

Several individuals come to mind when thinking about what I’m most thankful for: my family, friends, colleagues and clients. Without them, my purpose in life and the feeling of belonging to something meaningful would not exist.

This year I’m very grateful for some friends and colleagues that have gone out of their way to be selfless and caring, with little or nothing in it for them. Their continuous motivation and encouragement help me maintain a positive mindset and competitive spirit. I am blessed that they want to see me live a healthy, successful and purpose-filled life, and the feeling of their hope inspires me to live with urgency and enthusiasm. Knowing I have real fans helps me perform at a higher level and accomplish greater things. I have a true sense of accountability to not let them down when faced with life’s daily choices to coast or keep hustling. As a new year approaches, I have a strong appreciation for these individuals that have helped me so much, and I’m inspired to be more like them.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRD #4940887 10/2025

Kitt Campbell: Owner of Botanica

When asked to think of what I’m most grateful for, the answer came easily: Caitlin and my mother, our community, and our customers.

Caitlin gave me and my girls the chance for a new beginning when she trusted me to take over Botanica. That gift completely changed our lives.

My mom has been the backbone through it all. She helped bring Botanica’s new face to life and has been my teacher through the hardest parts of business ownership: the long nights, the tough calls, and the moments that tested my confidence. Her belief in me never wavered, even when mine did.

Most of all, I’m grateful for the community we’re building, one rooted in love, acceptance, and creativity. To the artists, small growers, and customers who fill this space, you’ve made Botanica so much more than a shop. You’ve helped create a place of connection, care, and belonging.

Botanica exists because of you all, and I’m endlessly thankful to keep growing alongside such a beautiful community.

Alison Kling, CEO of Free 2 Teach

It has been such a joy to reflect on what I’m thankful for professionally this season, and my mind immediately goes to Leadership Greater Huntsville. I love their team and their mission, and I am so thankful for the impact they have made on my life and work.

My LGH class experience (L36! Best class ever!) and my time volunteering with the program since then have been true gifts. The connections, conversations, and opportunities to learn more about our city and region have broadened my perspective and given me a deeper sense of what’s possible when we work collaboratively across sectors to make a difference.

The impact has been powerful for our work at Free 2 Teach. The people I’ve met through Leadership have become not only volunteers but also friends, colleagues, board members, and full partners in our mission.

Leadership can be lonely, and there are many ups and downs throughout the day. To have a place where I can serve, learn, and grow alongside leaders across the region has been invaluable. Over the next two years, I’m honored to serve on the steering committee for the Flagship program. I am so proud to serve an organization that has served me so well.

I encourage everyone to participate and find ways for their employees and team members to get involved. Leadership Greater Huntsville is a premier experience that leaves a lasting impact, both personally and across our community.

Nikia Lightfoot: Owner of Vujee Vegan

I am thankful to be alive and spend time creating memories with my family and friends. I am so blessed to have their love and support. I’m thankful for good health. I’m thankful for my customers and the community for allowing me to serve them. I appreciate their loyalty, continued support, and for the opportunity to live my childhood dream out loud.

Jed Park: Qualifying Broker at Park Properties Real Estate

I’m so grateful for the incredible team I get to work with every day. Cole Batson and Christa Minor have been outstanding additions to Park Properties, and together with Tom Armstrong and Jef Park, I’m truly blessed to be surrounded by such talented, dedicated people.

And being in Huntsville—where everyone from Mayor Battle to the folks in economic development are so supportive and approachable—makes it an even better place to do business. It’s a great time to be in real estate in Huntsville!

Karen Peterson: Director of Development at Wellstone

There is so much to be thankful for this year—and every year.

In 2025, I am grateful for a career that has connected me to so many amazing people. At WellStone, I’ve met individuals and families who bravely and boldly confront stigma, sharing their own stories involving mental illness and addiction. I am grateful for strangers who become advocates at the first opportunity.

I have met donors in corporate and personal settings who give and love generously. This year, in particular, I am grateful for the new pediatric unit we opened, the first extended option in Madison County and the first 24/7 crisis care center in the state.

One young client shared a story with me that broke my heart. As I left, I thanked the team for being there for that sweet boy, in particular, but also for every child who needed to know that they were not alone—and that our community has stepped up to give them the love, light, hope, healing, and resources they need to move forward with health, wellness, and confidence.

I am thankful for a city that has given my husband and me the opportunity to raise our two daughters in a beautiful, positive, and evolving area (and warm climate!), where neighbors, colleagues, educators, peers, and even local leaders have become systems of support.

When I am disheartened by national and international news, gratitude for these things and more keeps me going—at work, at home, and in life.

Thank you so much, Dan, Kitt, Alison, Nikia, Jed, and Karen! We loved hearing from each of you.

We hope you have a warm and happy Thanksgiving, Huntsville!