The Business of Helping Others
Posted on June 28, 2021 by Julie Jackson
Courtney Dortch’s first love was basketball, but when she started throwing shot put in middle school, she starting winning. And winning was fun.
Her athletic talent started her on a path that led to a track and field scholarship at USA. That’s where Dortch learned the benefits of teamwork and building relationships, on and off the track.
Those same lessons spilled over into her academics as a business administration major.
One of her instructors, Dr. Denise McAdory, instilled in Dortch the importance of accountability and credibility in business and in life.
“That’s one of the things that I pride myself on,” said Dortch, “and a tool that I used to construct my business.”
A Different Path
Following a brief stint in the marketing world, Dortch realized she had another calling.
“I’m a caretaker by nature,” said Dortch.
With her student-athlete background and desire to help others, Dortch found her way to massage therapy.
“When I first started massage I was with a franchise, but I decided to branch out because I wanted to differentiate myself from others,” Dortch said. “And the best way to do that was to start my own business.”
Family loyalty
Eight years later, not only does Dortch have a loyal client base, she has had the opportunity to work with current student-athletes at South as a massage therapist, something she did not have while in school.
“South has come a tremendously long way from when I was there,” said Dortch. “I enjoy seeing the level of growth, and I’m proud to be a part of South Alabama as an alum.”
She’s grateful to still have the relationships that she created at South.
“South Alabama has that family atmosphere. They make sure to take care of their own.”
Watch Dortch’s interview here.