Name: Megan S.
Location: Payneville, KY
Bio: While I am the President & CEO of a regional nonprofit, I am also an active member of Star Wars’ Rebel Legion. I make public appearances as Rey and am completing Leia and Wonder Woman costumes to continue to bring strong female role models to young girls.
How did you become interested in this fandom?
I’ve always had a bit of a nerdy streak but started to truly embrace fandom as a mom. I have two young boys who love all things Star Wars and superheroes. What started as fun outings to the occasional convention led me to learn more about costuming. The first time I dressed as Rey in public, I was hooked. After a year and lots of hard work, I am proud to have built a growing costume collection and enjoy making appearances with my kids (see attached picture where my little Trooper has me under arrest). It’s so much more fun when the whole family gets involved! I’ve had some unforgettable experiences because of this, such as throwing out the first pitch at a minor league baseball game and visiting sick children in the hospital. Once I got to see what a positive impact I could have, I had no choice but to be a Force for good.
How do you subtly (or not-so-subtly!) work your fandom into everyday life?
I’m very open about this passion, even in my professional life. I’ve worn Star Wars shirts to meetings held on May 4th, share my adventures on Facebook and Instagram, and wrote an opinion piece on female heroines for our local newspaper. One of my favorite things is to be out in the community for work and have someone mention how much they love seeing what I do through the Rebel Legion. Star Wars brings people together in a unique way and gives us opportunities to see how much we have in common. I appreciate the support of family, friends, and colleagues who thoughtfully pick up small Star Wars trinkets, magazines, or other treats to add to my memorabilia collection. It’s not uncommon to find a Kylo Ren Pez dispenser or Carrie Fisher quote on my desk when I come in to work! The more outspoken I become about how important it is for women to see ourselves reflected in our heroes, the more amazing platforms I’ve found to make my voice heard.
Do you have a favorite quote, or personal motto?
“Do. Or do not. There is no try.” –Yoda