In the world of sports and media, Cris Collinsworth is a household name. But behind the celebrated sportscaster is his wife of over three decades, Holly Bankemper, a woman of remarkable substance and accomplishment in her own right.

While she may be known to many as the wife of a sports icon, Holly has carved out a distinguished career as a respected attorney, a dedicated philanthropist, and the matriarch of a high-achieving family. This is the untold story of Holly Bankemper, a woman who embodies grace, intelligence, and a quiet strength that has been the bedrock of the Collinsworth family legacy.

A Respected Attorney and Community Pillar

Long before she became Mrs. Collinsworth, Holly Bankemper was on a path to a successful legal career. A practicing attorney in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, she has been a member of the Cincinnati Bar Association for over 30 years. Her work is characterized by a deep sense of integrity and a commitment to her clients and community.

Holly’s professional life is a testament to her sharp intellect and unwavering work ethic. She has built a respected practice, all while navigating the demands of a public life and raising four children. Her ability to balance a thriving career with her family responsibilities is a source of inspiration for many.

From Kentucky Cheerleader to Accomplished Lawyer

Holly’s journey began in the small town of Fort Thomas, Kentucky, where she was born on November 23, 1964. A bright and energetic student, she attended Highlands High School, where she was a cheerleader. Her school spirit and leadership qualities were evident even then.

After graduating from the University of Kentucky in 1985, where she continued her cheerleading career, Holly set her sights on law school. She enrolled at the University of Cincinnati College of Law, where she would not only earn her Juris Doctor degree in 1988 but also meet her future husband.

A Partnership Forged in Law and Love

The story of how Holly and Cris met is a charming one. Introduced by mutual friends at a Cincinnati restaurant while both were in law school, their connection was immediate. Cris was drawn to Holly’s intelligence, wit, and down-to-earth nature.

Their romance blossomed, and Cris proposed on a quiet bridge over the Ohio River. They were married on June 3, 1989, in a private ceremony attended by friends, family, and even the then-mayor of Cincinnati, Jerry Springer. Their enduring partnership is a testament to their shared values and mutual respect.

For over three decades, Holly has maintained her legal practice in her hometown of Fort Thomas. She has successfully managed to keep her professional life separate from her husband’s high-profile career, earning the respect of her peers and clients through her dedication and expertise.

Despite the constant media attention surrounding her family, Holly has chosen to remain out of the spotlight. She does not have public social media profiles and rarely gives interviews, preferring to let her work and actions speak for themselves. This deliberate choice has allowed her to maintain a sense of normalcy and focus on her career and family.

Raising a Family of High Achievers

Holly and Cris are the proud parents of four children: Katie, Austin, Ashley, and Jac. Each of their children has gone on to achieve success in their own right, a reflection of the strong values and supportive environment Holly and Cris created at home.

From a former football captain at Notre Dame to a track star at Harvard and a rising sportscaster at NBC, the Collinsworth children are a testament to their parents’ guidance. Holly’s ability to raise a successful family while pursuing her own demanding career is a remarkable achievement.

A Quiet Force for Good: Philanthropy and Community

Beyond her legal career and family life, Holly is a dedicated philanthropist. She is a board member of the Cris Collinsworth ProScan Fund, which is dedicated to fighting breast cancer through education and early detection. Holly works tirelessly behind the scenes to raise funds and awareness for this important cause.

Her commitment to her community extends to her alma mater, Highlands High School, where she helped raise over $7 million for school renovations. In 2019, she was named Alumnus of the Year, a testament to her enduring connection to her hometown.

The Art of Privacy in a Public World

In an age of social media and celebrity culture, Holly Bankemper has mastered the art of privacy. She has consciously chosen to live a life away from the public eye, focusing on her family, her career, and her community. This has allowed her to maintain a sense of authenticity and purpose that is often lost in the glare of the spotlight.

Her quiet and dignified approach to life has earned her the admiration of many. She is a woman who is comfortable in her own skin, confident in her abilities, and clear about her priorities. Her life is a powerful reminder that true success is not measured by fame or fortune, but by the positive impact one has on the lives of others.

The Enduring Legacy of Holly Bankemper

Holly Bankemper’s legacy is one of professional achievement, unwavering family values, and quiet philanthropy. She is a woman who has successfully navigated the complexities of a public life with grace and integrity, all while building a meaningful career and raising a loving family.

Her story is an inspiration to anyone who seeks to live a life of purpose and substance. Holly Bankemper is more than just the wife of a sports legend; she is a role model, a community leader, and a woman of remarkable character whose influence will be felt for generations to come.