I've always been someone who just enjoys people, their stories, their experiences, and the connections that come from that. What I love most about what I do has very little to do with the logistics. It's the moments on the bus when a returning traveler leans over to someone new and says, "You're going to love this. She takes such good care of us." That never gets old to me.

 I've had the privilege of traveling with so many wonderful women and men, some widowed, some whose spouses simply do not share their interest in travel, and watching them experience places they never thought they would see. But even more special is what they find along the way: friendships, connection, and a sense of belonging. Before long, it feels like an extended family, one where everyone is greeted by name the next time they step on the bus. I also cherish the quieter moments. Sitting next to someone, listening to their stories, sharing a conversation, or sometimes just being present. There is so much we can learn from each other when we slow down enough to really connect. 

My path into travel started early. I grew up with siblings much older than me, so I was always surrounded by adults and I loved listening to their stories. That appreciation for people deepened even more when my father became ill and I spent five years as his caregiver. That time shaped me in ways I carry into my work every day, especially in how I connect with and care for the senior community. After my dad passed, I began working at a travel agency here in Rochester, where I spent five years coordinating trips and motorcoach tours. In 2019, I took a leap of faith and started Destinations by Donna LLC. Of course, just after getting started, the pandemic brought travel to a complete stop. But with the help of a grant from the Office of Community and Rural Affairs and a lot of determination, I was able to rebuild. I was honored to be ranked 137th in 2025 among more than 11,000 travel advisors nationwide with Outside Agents. Not a bad comeback. Alaska has become a favorite destination for my groups, with trips in 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2025, and another already planned for 2027. 

This fall, I am especially excited to host a Rhine River cruise for 104 travelers in partnership with the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce. I also work closely with the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, organizing motorcoach trips to places like New Orleans, Washington, D.C., Cape Cod, and Branson. These trips help support RSVP, an organization that means a great deal to me both professionally and personally. As always, I am already looking ahead. Portugal in 2028 is on my mind. 

When I am not traveling, my husband Duane and I stay busy on our 260-acre farm in Fulton County, where we raise beef cattle and grow row crops. We have been married for 40 years and have three sons, Charles, Andrew, and Jeremiah, along with Andrew's wife Brooke. We are also members of Parkside Community Church, where I lead and organize annual mission trips to Jamaica. 

Travel has taken me many places, but it is the people along the way who make it all meaningful.