Rachel Sams (Mangum) moved to beautiful Marion County, Florida at the tender age of four, ultimately settling on a quaint 12- acre farm in rural Weirsdale as her parents carved out their careers in medicine. Being the elder twin of five children, she and her family remained active on their family farm, as well as in the community. Rachel was involved in anything on horseback, martial arts, Future Farmers of America (FFA), WPC Youth Group at Weirsdale Presbyterian Church, and had a fondness for volunteering with her brothers at BSA Troop 113.

 

While Rachel technically graduated from Lake Weir High School in 2009, she proudly attended MTI’s Career Academy her Senior year of school, simultaneously attending College of Central Florida. To add to her ever-busy plate, she graduated from Career Technical and Adult Education (CTAE) in 2009 with her Phlebotomy license. Rachel continued her education and graduated with Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from Bethel University.

 

Being the daughter of a Vietnam Veteran, and the granddaughter of two-time Purple Heart recipient in WWII, Rachel felt she inherited a need to serve. In 2012 she re-enrolled at the College of Central Florida, this time in a vocational capacity with the Criminal Justice Program where she earned her Law Enforcement certification in 2013.  

 

Rachel followed her calling as a public servant and became a Police Officer with the City of Ocala in 2013. She was a decorated officer during her tenure with The City. Rachel closed the chapter of her law enforcement career in 2017, eager to grow. After much consideration, Rachel earned various financial designations, and in 2019 joined forces with fraternal benefit society Christian-based company.