Rebekah:

Rebekah Esau is a teacher, community leader, and proud mom of seven who believes in the power of purpose, service, and meaningful connections. Named Teacher of the Year at Putnam County High School, Rebekah teaches Advanced Composition and leads the school’s Service Leadership course, helping students discover their strengths and turn their ideas into meaningful action. 

Through Service Leadership, Rebekah’s students have partnered with organizations throughout Putnam County, including Circle of Love, finding ways to support local families and make a difference in their community. Beyond the classroom, she serves as the advisor for the Georgia Writers Museum Junior Board, Vice Chair of the Eatonton Main Street Advisory Board, and a board member of the Eatonton Service League. 

Rebekah is passionate about strengthening her community and inspiring others to lead through service. Outside of work and her many community commitments, she enjoys life with her husband and seven children and is always ready for the next adventure, project, or opportunity to bring people together. She is excited to support Circle of Love and its mission to serve survivors of domestic violence and their families! 

Mike:

Dr. Mike Mortimer is a public educator and community scholar who serves as the Social Studies Department Chair at Putnam County High School. Through his teaching and scholarship, he brings history beyond the classroom with public projects, community partnerships, and place-based learning that explore the stories of the people and landscapes around us. He is passionate about helping others connect with the history and heritage of their communities and understand how those stories shape the world today. 

Outside the classroom, Mike is known for his love of neckties and is a doting cat parent. He resides in Milledgeville with his spouse and is excited to take part in Dancing with the Lake Oconee Stars in support of Circle of Love and its mission to serve survivors of domestic violence and their families.