Altrua Global Solutions Senior Account Manager, Ali Varnum moved to Tallahassee 20 years ago and immediately fell in love with the small-town feel. Check out this month’s Access Tallahassee member spotlight to read more about this die-hard Seminole’s journey.
Where do you work and what is your role?
Altrua Global Solutions; Senior Account Manager
Tell us about your background.
Grew up in a close-knit Southern family in Saint Augustine, moved to Tallahassee when I was 11, attended Maclay School thru graduation & moved onto Florida State where I majored in Business Marketing. I am a very outgoing, sociable, action-oriented person. Am an avid sports fan whether it be a day at Dick Howser or an evening at Doak Campbell. Fell in love at work & am now married with two little ones; a 2-year-old son & a newborn baby girl. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family & friends.
Where are you from and how did you end up here?
Originally from St. Augustine, FL. Moved to Tallahassee in 2001 when my dad expanded his custom home construction company to Tallahassee. Fell in love with the city and when I was accepted into Florida State, took that as it was meant to be & stayed.
What do you like about Tallahassee?
I fell in love with its small-town feel but big city amenities. With its Southern drawl, it pulls on my own inner Southern girl at heart. From the Northside family-friendly feels to the College Town-soaked streets, Tallahassee really gives you the best of both worlds when it comes to daily life & nightlife.
What’s on the top of your Tallahassee bucket list?
Living in Tallahassee, I have crossed many things off my bucket list: turning 21 at midnight in Westcott Fountain, running the bases at Dick Howser, and taken in a concert at Cascades. Now with having children, I would love for them to experience some of the things I did … first up, would love for my son to meet Renegade and experience FSU Football as I did for so many years!
What’s the best part about Access?
The best part about Access is the forum it gives young professionals to connect with peers and find mentorships with those who are more seasoned in their careers. It enables relationships to be built on a foundation that grows over time and throughout one’s career.
What other organizations are you involved in?
Altrua supports many programs here in the Big Bend and through our National Clientele which enables me and our employees to be involved in the Ronald McDonald House, Vet Events Tally, and the Chelsea House to name a few.