Please meet Robin Shultz, follow Alexandrian, mom of three, an Alexandria 40 under 40 Honoree, Girl Scout and Brownie Troop Leader, Wife, and last but not least, real-life Super Hero as the Senior Director for Behavioral Health at Inova Health System. Robin is widely referred to by many as "Robin Shultz, the person I want to be when I grow up"... So, how do I introduce the woman who inspires so many? Well, I went to a thesaurus to find the perfect synonym and instead found several: skillful, accomplished, savvy, polished, adept, amusing, and radiant. How she continued to be her most brilliant self and serve others during covid left even the savviest awe, the reason why I felt I must introduce her to the Stylebook community. 

Robin was recently promoted to Senior Director of Behavioral Health, where she runs the third-largest service line at Inova Health System and manages 800 individuals. At home, she also manages an amazingly creative and fun husband, Josh, who is president and co-founder of NJI Media located in Old Town (and also the location of this amazing shoot!) And together, they manage three little Shultz's, ages four, six, and eight. Prior to being promoted, Robin built the Geriatric Division of Inova Health System. During the first months of covid, a time when we knew a lot less about how covid was transmitted, Robin was interacting daily with individuals who had tested positive. Her mindset was, "the more I work, the more people I can help." Although she was always wearing proper protective equipment, Robin had to make massive sacrifices to protect her family and lived two weeks at a time at a hotel near the hospital. Calling Robin a superhero does not do it justice.  

Originally from Oklahoma City, Robin knew she wanted to go into a profession that made a difference in people's lives. When the Oklahoma City bombing happened in 1995, Robin lost two very close friends. That unfortunate day was a pivotal moment for her as she decided to dedicate her life to making a difference. 

Robins Favorite Accomplishment? In 2016, Robin took over and expanded Inova's Medical House Calls program (aka Doctors on Wheels), which now serves almost all major zip codes in Alexandria City and Fairfax County Alexandria, serving 1000 Geriatric patients. A program so popular, there is now a waitlist. When I asked this superhero what her immediate goals for the future are, her response amazed me: "Stabilize the community's behavioral health concerns flowing from Covid. Pediatric and adult populations have an increased rate of mental health issues as well as substance use and misuse disorders as a result of Covid."

No short write-up could do this incredible lady justice. Every time I'm with her, she makes me laugh and feel better about the "managed chaos" we are all currently living in. She always has solid book and podcast recommendations, and if you want to find the motivation to get your rear in gear - hang with Robin! Without further adieu, Robin.

Photography credit : Sarah Marcella Creative

Robin is styled by The Hive and The Shoe Hive.

ABOUT YOU

How do you spend your time? Wisely

Neighborhood: Waynewood (22308) 

How long have you lived in Alexandria: 11 years 

What is your hometown? Oklahoma City

What brought you to Alexandria? Professional opportunities and a great place to start a family

What would surprise people about you? I almost finished culinary school.

You're a superhero: what's your superpower? Self-cloning and teleportation are tied

Favorite cocktail: Hendricks Sonic (Half soda, half tonic

Last book read or movie seen: Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat

Guilty Pleasure: A regular "Saturday Sitter" for my sweet littles

Phrase you overuse: Can I tweet that?

Facebook or Instagram? Hmmm...

Latest binge-watch: Ozark

Bucket list travel destination: Tokyo 

If you only could have one for the rest of your life: wine or coffee? Wine hands down.

FASHION

Define your style in three words or less: Confident, relaxed, classic

The go-to piece in your wardrobe: Veronica Beard blazers

Favorite trend ever: The high-waisted bikini and animal print are tied. Can you tell I'm terrible at choosing just one thing?

Favorite current trend: Athleisure

Beauty product you can't live without: Living Proof everything!

Favorite fragrance: Romance by Ralph Lauren

Heels or flats? Heels!

HOME

Favorite room in your home: My bedroom

Antiques, modern, or a mix? Mixed lean modern 

Last item bought for your home: Screened porch fire pit

Next planned purchase: Outdoor putting green

Favorite way to entertain: All the ways

Clutter-free or well-lived in? Clutter-free - I'm a closeted perfectionist.

Wallpaper -- yes, totally modern or no, so dated: Yes, totally modern.

FITNESS

Your go-to work-out: Peloton everything plus Beachbody, an occasional Orange Theory Fitness, and a sprinkling of The Row House.

Most fun way to exercise: With friends!

Group exercise or solo: Both

Fitness goal: Trophy wife

Haven't yet, but might be willing to try with coaching / encouragement: Cruise into the Bermuda Triangle

Proudest fitness achievement: Consistency                              

ALEXANDRIA

Favorite spot in Alexandria: NJI Media's bar (between Mia's and Ben & Jerry's)

Last purchase in Alexandria: Ada's roasted cauliflower

Best coffee / happy hour / date night spot: Uh...King Street and Barca. Must I choose??

Favorite charity: Senior Services of Alexandria

Favorite annual Alexandria event: Mount Vernon Wine Festival