Carly Jo started taking piano lessons when she was 6 years old in Van Buren, Arkansas. She was a five time all-region bassoonist and served as section leader for the Van Buren High School Band in her junior year. During the marching season she played the synthesizer and was recognized as a soloist in her junior year. She has served as a substitute pianist for her childhood congregations: City Heights United Methodist Church and Alma United Methodist Church.

Carly Jo has been an avid supporter of the Fort Smith Symphony and Fort Smith Chorale, attending performances with her mother and grandmother for over 20 years.

Carly Jo attended the University of Central Arkansas, where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Public Administration. She is currently pursuing a Master of Public Service from the Clinton School of Public Service in Little Rock, AR. In her free time she takes ballet lessons, attends as many outdoor music festivals and concerts as she can afford, and enjoys time on the Buffalo River.

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