Introduction
Holly Bankemper is a name that resonates in the world of law and philanthropy, not just because of her impressive career but also due to her relationship with Cris Collinsworth, the famous sports broadcaster and former NFL wide receiver. While Cris has often been in the limelight, Holly has quietly built a significant legacy of her own. From her professional accomplishments as an attorney to her contributions to charitable causes, Holly’s life paints a picture of dedication, resilience, and family values.
Early Life and Education
Born on November 23, 1964, in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, Holly’s roots trace back to a supportive family environment. She attended Highlands High School in Fort Thomas, where she excelled academically and laid the foundation for her future endeavors. Holly’s drive to succeed led her to pursue higher education at the University of Kentucky, where she participated as a cheerleader, displaying her leadership and team spirit.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Holly chose to further her education in law. She enrolled at the University of Cincinnati College of Law, where she earned her Juris Doctor degree in 1988. Holly’s passion for justice and legal studies was clear from the start, and her academic achievements set the stage for her future career in law.
A Career in Law
Holly Bankemper’s professional life is defined by her three-decade-long career as a general practice attorney in Cincinnati. She is an esteemed member of the Cincinnati Bar Association (CBA), an organization dedicated to promoting legal professionalism and advocacy in the region. Over the years, Holly has gained recognition for her legal expertise, handling a range of cases with dedication and skill.
Her work has allowed her to make a meaningful impact in the lives of her clients, focusing on a broad spectrum of legal issues. As an attorney, Holly has not only achieved individual success but also contributed to the betterment of her community. Her ability to balance her demanding career with her family life speaks to her time management skills and commitment to the people she cares about.
Meeting Cris Collinsworth
Holly’s path took an interesting turn in the late 1980s when she met Cris Collinsworth. The couple first crossed paths through mutual friends at The Precinct, a popular Cincinnati restaurant. Their connection grew quickly, and just a year later, Cris proposed. Holly and Cris married on June 3, 1989, beginning a partnership that would span decades.
Their relationship, founded on mutual respect and shared values, became a cornerstone of both their personal and professional lives. While Cris’s career as a professional football player and sports broadcaster placed him in the public eye, Holly’s quiet yet strong presence behind the scenes has been equally influential.
Raising a Family
Holly and Cris’s family is one of the most significant aspects of their life together. The couple has four children, each of whom has followed their unique paths, influenced by the values Holly and Cris instilled in them.
- Katie Collinsworth: The couple’s eldest child, Katie, works as a business marketing manager for the Golf Channel. She graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Public Relations and now contributes to the digital media world. Katie’s career success reflects the strong educational foundation her parents provided.
- Austin Collinsworth: Austin, the second oldest, followed in his father’s footsteps and played football at Notre Dame. As a former team captain, he made his mark on the field before transitioning to a career in business and finance. Austin is now the Director of Investment and Partnerships at Xsolla, a global video game services company.
- Ashley Collinsworth: Ashley, the couple’s third child, took a different route, graduating from Harvard University in 2012 with a degree in psychology. Her career has spanned various industries, including her role as a sales coordinator for 21c Museum Hotels and a producer at MRI Online. Ashley’s diverse experiences showcase the broad opportunities available to the Collinsworth children.
- Jac Collinsworth: The youngest of the four children, Jac has followed his father into the world of broadcasting. After working as a features reporter for ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown, Jac joined his father at NBC Sports, where he now serves as an on-site host for “Football Night in America.” His career in sports media is a natural continuation of his father’s legacy in broadcasting.
The Collinsworth children’s varied careers highlight their parents’ emphasis on education, hard work, and dedication. Holly’s role as a mother has been pivotal in shaping the lives of her children, encouraging them to pursue their passions and excel in their respective fields.
Philanthropic Efforts
While Holly’s professional life as an attorney is impressive, her philanthropic endeavors have also had a significant impact on her community. Alongside Cris, she co-founded the Cris Collinsworth ProScan Fund, an organization dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness and providing affordable mammograms. The fund’s mission is to offer subsidized screening ultrasounds for women, particularly those who may not have access to regular screenings.
Holly’s personal involvement in the fund has been extensive. She has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about breast cancer and has played an essential role in organizing fundraising efforts to support the organization’s goals. Through the ProScan Fund, Holly has helped countless women receive the vital screenings they need, showcasing her commitment to improving the health and well-being of her community.
In addition to her work with the ProScan Fund, Holly has also been actively involved in other charitable causes. One notable example is her contribution to a fundraising campaign that raised $7.8 million for the reconstruction of her alma mater, Highlands High School. This significant financial support was used to rebuild the school, ensuring that future generations would benefit from a safe and modern learning environment.
Holly’s philanthropic work reflects her deep-rooted desire to give back to her community and make a positive difference in the lives of others. Her involvement in these causes is a testament to her compassionate nature and her belief in the importance of helping those in need.
Life in the Spotlight
While Holly has led a relatively private life, her husband’s career has often placed her in the public eye. Cris Collinsworth’s tenure as a commentator for NBC Sports has kept him at the forefront of sports media. Yet, despite the attention her husband receives, Holly has consistently remained focused on her family and career.
One particularly dramatic moment that brought the Collinsworth family into the headlines occurred in March 2011. Cris was among 83 people rescued from Jeff Ruby’s Waterfront restaurant in Covington, Kentucky, when the floating restaurant became unmoored and drifted along the Ohio River. While Cris’s rescue made headlines, Holly remained a steady presence, offering support to her family during the ordeal.
This event underscored the strength and resilience of Holly, who continues to serve as the foundation of her family, providing both emotional and practical support. Her ability to navigate the challenges that come with public life while maintaining a focus on her loved ones is one of the many reasons she remains such a respected figure.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
Holly Bankemper’s ability to balance her career, family life, and philanthropic efforts is a testament to her organizational skills and determination. She has managed to build a successful career in law while also raising four children who have gone on to achieve great things in their own right.
Her work-life balance is a model for many, demonstrating that it is possible to excel professionally without sacrificing the values of family and community. Holly’s dedication to her career, family, and charitable causes is an inspiration to those around her.
From her role as a mother and wife to her impactful work as an attorney and philanthropist, Holly Bankemper exemplifies the qualities of strength, perseverance, and kindness. Though she may not seek the spotlight, her contributions to both her family and community are undeniable, leaving a lasting impact on all who know her.
Conclusion
Holly Bankemper is a remarkable figure who has made significant contributions to both her family and the broader community. As a successful attorney, dedicated mother, and philanthropic leader, Holly exemplifies the balance between career, family, and giving back. Her commitment to causes like breast cancer awareness, as well as her active role in shaping the lives of her children, showcases her resilience and compassion. Despite the fame of her husband, Cris Collinsworth, Holly’s impact is undeniable, as she continues to inspire those around her with her strength, grace, and determination. Holly Bankemper’s story is a testament to the power of hard work, family values, and a deep commitment to improving the world around her.
FAQs about Holly Bankemper
1. Who is Holly Bankemper?
Holly Bankemper is an attorney, philanthropist, and the wife of Cris Collinsworth, a former NFL player and current sports broadcaster. She has made a name for herself through her work in the legal field and her active role in charitable causes, particularly those involving breast cancer awareness.
2. What is Holly Bankemper known for?
Holly is best known for being a dedicated mother, wife, and lawyer. She co-founded the Cris Collinsworth ProScan Fund, an organization focused on providing breast cancer screenings to women in need. She has also been involved in numerous charitable endeavors, contributing to the well-being of her community.
3. How many children does Holly Bankemper have?
Holly and Cris Collinsworth have four children: Katie, Austin, Ashley, and Jac. Each of their children has carved out successful careers in various fields, from business and sports broadcasting to psychology and media.
4. What is the Cris Collinsworth ProScan Fund?
The Cris Collinsworth ProScan Fund is a charitable organization co-founded by Holly and Cris Collinsworth. Its primary mission is to raise awareness about breast cancer and provide affordable mammograms and other screenings to women, especially those who lack access to proper health care.
5. What is Holly Bankemper’s career background?
Holly Bankemper is a trained attorney with over 30 years of experience. She is a member of the Cincinnati Bar Association and has built a successful career in law, specializing in general legal practice.
6. What is Holly Bankemper’s involvement in the community?
Holly has been deeply involved in various charitable efforts, including raising funds for local causes and providing financial support for the reconstruction of her high school. Her philanthropic work, particularly in health-related fields, has had a lasting impact on her community.
7. Where did Holly Bankemper go to school?
Holly attended the University of Cincinnati College of Law, where she earned her Juris Doctor degree in 1988. She also completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Kentucky, where she was an active cheerleader.
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Bonnie Wright