For Cliff and Taylor McGowen, Highland Lakes has been home for 13 years—but their story together began long before that, just a few miles away in Westerville. High school sweethearts from Westerville North, their early connection was built on shared friends, basketball games (Cliff on the court), and cheerleading sidelines (Taylor in uniform). After graduating, Cliff went on to Ohio University to play Division I basketball and major in Economics, while Taylor headed to Miami University, where she studied Accounting and joined Delta Gamma sorority. Though they cheered each other on from different campuses, their connection only deepened—and the life they’ve built since is nothing short of vibrant.

Now, Cliff and Taylor are raising four wonderful kids in Highland Lakes: Piper (13), Paige (11), Presley (9), and Ford (6), all students at Worthington Christian. The family’s days are full, joyful, and wonderfully unique—anchored in faith, community, and togetherness.

Professionally, both Cliff and Taylor are leaders at Nationwide. Cliff is Director of Digital Marketing Content and Delivery, guiding enterprise-wide content strategy. Taylor is an Associate Vice President in Controllership, leading key Finance teams while also shaping early-career talent through internship and rotational programs. Their careers are meaningful—but what makes it extra special is how their kids also feel connected to Nationwide, thanks to family visits and community events.

The McGowens’ days are a lively mix of activity. Piper recently joined the cheer squad at Worthington Christian and plays tennis, having previously devoted years to ballet. She’s also active in youth group and serves as a Sunday School teacher. Paige lives and breathes ballet—she trains at New Albany Ballet and will soon perform a solo en pointe at the prestigious Youth America Grand Prix. Presley shines in cheerleading and has a knack for entrepreneurship—whether it’s running a lemonade stand or launching crafts with friends. Ford is the family’s sports enthusiast, playing everything from hockey and soccer to baseball and basketball. He’s also a Lego-loving builder with a wildly creative imagination.

And then there’s Crew, the family’s beloved Cavapoo. Born on May 4th (yes, that May 4th), Crew became part of the family on Ford’s birthday—a double celebration they’ll never forget. With his curly coat and heart-melting eyes, Crew is a neighborhood favorite. He loves swimming at Apple Valley Lake, walking around Stillwater, and keeping up with the big dogs in the court. But no matter who gives him treats, Cliff is his true favorite—his person, his shadow, his buddy.

The McGowens love their traditions, especially beach trips to Hilton Head and Rosemary Beach, summer weekends at Apple Valley Lake, and hiking in Hocking Hills. Christmas is their favorite season—decorations go up before Thanksgiving, and Cliff’s enthusiasm has earned him the nickname Clark Griswold. The holiday spirit arrives early thanks to the girls’ Nutcracker rehearsals, filling their home with music, movement, and magic for months.

At home, their backyard is a retreat. From s’mores by the fireplace to dinners around their big table, it’s a space designed for connection. They also enjoy local favorites—family bike rides to Coppa Gelato, meals at Northstar Café, and dinners on The Lakes Country Club terrace are staples in their weekly rhythm. For special outings, they enjoy The Barn, Restoration Hardware’s rooftop, and Del Mar.

Beyond their own home, the McGowens are active in the community. Taylor serves on the Worthington Christian School Board, and both she and Cliff volunteer with Junior Achievement. At Grace Polaris Church, they serve in Kids Ministry and VBS, and regularly participate in service projects—from food banks to furniture delivery. Their kids are involved too, learning early how to show up and give back.

Ask the McGowens what makes Highland Lakes special, and their answer is clear: the people. “It’s the kind of place where you can borrow an egg or show up for each other when it matters,” says Taylor. “Our neighbors have become lifelong friends.”

Their advice to new residents? “Say hello. Show up. Join in,” Cliff says. “This neighborhood has a way of becoming something really special—if you let it.”