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Couple Finds Love and a Passion for Helping Others at HGTC
(CONWAY, SC) Nov 1, 2018 - Reagan Loehr and Dustin Walters first met in August 2016 through their
Introduction to Human Services class. Both were beginning their journeys in the human services program at Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) in preparation for a career in helping
others.
“Because of the nature of the human services program, everyone in the program bonds quickly and makes lifelong friends,” said Loehr.
The couple quickly got to know each other through their study group and Reagan initially tried to set Dustin up with a friend.
“She gave me her friend’s number, but I never reached out. I knew from the beginning I’d eventually ask Reagan out,” Walters said.
“My professor even told me, ‘Reagan, you’re going to end up together,’” she added.
The couple began dating in early 2017, and got engaged a year later. Walters, an avid Steelers fan, proposed in Pittsburgh on a trip over New Years.
The couple has juggled wedding planning with completing their degrees and launching
their careers of helping others. Walters graduated from HGTC this summer and is working
for Life Recovery Solutions at J. Reuben Long Detention Center, a job he says he landed
because of his time at HGTC. Loehr graduates in December once she completes her internship
at Sea Haven for Youth.
Walters’ long-term goals include a bachelor’s degree in psychology in addictions from Purdue University, becoming an addiction counselor, and eventually opening his own service and treatment center. Loehr is also considering a bachelor’s degree and eventually wants to work with children through the Department of Social Services.
“We’ve been through a lot,” said Loehr. “Dustin is in recovery and I’ve lost a family member to addiction. We’ve definitely bonded over our shared experience with addiction and a desire to help others through similar struggles.”
The couple married on September 22, in North Myrtle Beach, and HGTC classmates and professors were among their guests.