GYMNASTICS

Allen, Class of 1980, was a member of the Vikings varsity gymnastics team for four years (1977-80) during an era of dominance for Lakeside. She competed on three state championship teams (1977-79) in the bars, vault, beam and floor. As a senior in 1980, she was a state medalist in the floor exercise and all-around, and received the prestigious Viking Award. She credits fellow Hall of Fame inductee Coach Shirley McDaniel and her teammates for helping build her confidence and instilling discipline and the importance of teamwork.In addition to gymnastics, Allen cheered for the Vikings football team for five years, serving as cheer captain during her sophomore and senior seasons. She was named an Outstanding Senior, WSB Young American, a member of the National Honor Society and Class Vice President from 1978-80.She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia and graduated from the Medical College of Georgia in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She spent 30 years working in critical care and has worked the last 12 years as a Post-Anesthesia Care Unit Nurse.Allen has been married to her husband Bernie, who she met through fellow Hall of Famer Lou West, for 40 years. Her biggest joy has been raising her three boys – Jonathan, Drew, and Allen – and spending time with her three grandchildren.