Rebuild Hot Springs Area (RHSA) extends our heartfelt thanks to Lisa Gahagan for her dedicated service as a member of our Board of Directors. Lisa stepped into this role during one of the most challenging moments in our town’s history, and her leadership was instrumental in Hot Springs’ immediate recovery after Hurricane Helene.
In her position as Assistant Superintendent for Madison County Schools, Lisa helped transform Hot Springs Elementary School into a central hub for relief in the days after Helene hit the region. The gymnasium became a donation center supplying families with essential goods, while the library served as an access point for residents seeking help. A volunteer crew worked by lantern light and Starlink to assist individuals in applying for aid and navigating online resources during those first days without power.
Teachers canvassed neighborhoods to check on students and their families, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of some of our most vulnerable neighbors. The school cafeteria provided hot meals for volunteers, first responders, and community members who had nowhere else to turn. These efforts, coordinated under Lisa’s steady direction, created a lifeline for the town at a time when it was needed most.
As Lisa begins her new chapter as Alderwoman for the Town of Hot Springs, we wish her every success. Her care for this community continues to shine, and we look forward to working alongside her in this new capacity as we maintain open communication and a shared commitment to Hot Springs’ future.
Lisa’s seat on the RHSA Board has been filled by Kevin Reese, a sixth-generation Hot Springs native who has served as an advisor to RHSA from the very beginning. Kevin’s deep roots and dedication to community storytelling will help guide RHSA’s ongoing work toward long-term recovery and resilience.
Thank you, Lisa, for your service, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to Hot Springs. Our community is stronger because of you.