Teammate Spotlight: Roni J. Walton

- Role: MPD (Ministry Partnership Development/Fundraising) Coordinator, Finances

- Resides in: Chadds Ford, PA

- Birthday: June 1st

- Before NET: Graduated Fall of 2018 from high school (homeschool), worked at a pet store until coming to NET

- First Encounter: Met her at the airport on arrival day, third Netter I ever met. Later spent tons of time together at Camp Wapo.

- Initial Thoughts: SUPER sweet lady, really clicked with her.

(Left) Our first time playing grounders/gravel, just chilling on a playset in Olney, MD. (Right) Not gonna lie, don't remember how this happened: why did she have a scarecrow in her hair? Why I took a photo? Either way, I love it. Both were taken the same day.

- Favorite Memory: Three come to mind: 1) "Let's go play baseball!" (In our little kid squeaker voices) 2) Any and every conversation in the van, along with our 1.5 hour di-add in Michigan at that one office building we played Sardines at. 3) Doing the spider on the swings with Monica. Basically Monica was swinging and she decided to sit on top of her, legs wrapped around waist, face right in Monica's face, while swinging as high and as fast as they could. Got it on video, still fascinating to watch today.

- What I Will Miss: Those notorious hugs! Guys, she gave the BEST squeezes ever. Every time we gave the sign of peace after team prayer, people would look forward to receiving these hugs that got big Jakob to make noises. It got me to up my hug game, literally inspiring me to give people tight squeezes as well! Was my competitive side coming out from it? Maybe... okay, yes, definitely, but there's no question I cannot wait to receive them soon and very soon.

- What the World Should Know About Roni: She is still the best mingler on our team, and there's no doubt in anyone's mind. She is always jumping into conversations with retreatants and helpers and basically anything that can respond to her. She's fearless when it comes to talking to others, and if you are open to any conversation, she is the person to talk to because of how interesting she is as a human. You can see her come alive through small talk, and it's simply beautiful. Also, she is EXTREMELY competitive. She gets heated in any sort of game, and it's so funny watching her throw a fit when she loses in Dutch Blitz or Speed. All in good sport, but still so funny.

Dear Roni,

Legit OG's man, all the way back to the snack crew at Wapo! It's been beautiful being able to grow our relationship together, and see you find the true meaning of community. I know how much you seeked true friendships and community, and I'm so grateful you were able to find it through us. You are such a blessing, and I am beyond excited to see what comes next in your life! Always remember that you got a team that always has your back, whenever and wherever you need us. Love you.