Photography by David Lewis
Each year, community leaders wear their dancing shoes for the coveted winning title that is earned at the Dancing with Our Stars Gala. All this fun and friendly competition benefits the Children’s Tumor Foundation and supports the Arkansas chapter’s research and mission: to end and find a cure for neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that disturbs cell growth in the nervous system, causing tumors to form on nerve tissue.
Children’s Tumor Foundation also provides support for children and families affected by NF. A portion of gala proceeds will support the Adult NF Clinic Pilot Program. We’re putting each star in the spotlight and introducing them on our blog. They will compete at the Thursday, September 7 gala, in addition to soliciting contributions + votes prior to the event.
Gina Radke – Galley Support Innovations, Owner
Dancing with Alex Hall
Gina Radke purchased the product line of an interior hardware business in 2005 and moved the struggling aviation business from California to her home state of Arkansas. Gina’s determination and focus has led Galley Support Innovations to new heights – including being named SBA Business Person of the Year in 2016- and put her in the forefront of community service as well as international trade.
A passionate believer in community service, Gina serves on many nonprofit boards. Gina is currently President of the Arkansas Aerospace & Defense Alliance and a commissioner on the Career Education and Workforce Development Board and Arkansas Department of Commerce Commissioner.
Gina serves as a trade advisor to congress on the International Industry Trade Advisory Committee in DC where she advocates for small and minority businesses. Inter Business Magazine named Gina a “Woman to Watch” in international trade. She was recently named to the Arkansas District Export Council by the U.S Secretary of Commerce.
Gina is an active member of the National Business Aviation Association, as well as local, state, and national Chambers of Commerce.
Gina has traveled the country speaking on topics such as; leadership, entrepreneurship, and social activism.
Gina decided to participate in the event not only because of the great and much needed work CTF does, but also because after two years of personal tragedy and life change, doing this event reminds her that stars shine brightest in the darkest night. Gina shares, “I have enjoyed the event for several years and I always admired the kids and their courage. After quite a bit of personal loss in the past few years, I pulled inspiration from the kids to volunteer to dance. They don’t let life or illness get them down and neither should I. I guess you could say this is my Rising Phoenix moment!”
Recent awards and accolades include; Winning the SBA Business Person Of Year, Arkansas Business 40 Under 40, Ar Business Magazines Business of the Year, winner of the Small Manufacture Export of The Year, and the Community Impact Image Award winner. National Business Aviation Association 40 Under 40. Gina has also been named to the 250 List, as one of the top 25 most influential people in her home state.
To VOTE for Gina, scan her QR code below or click HERE
Thank you for helping #ENDNF
