I have been the executive director of the High Plains Independence, Inc, CRO (Consumer Run Organization) since 2011. I have a passion for helping people succeed. After a short stay in Garden City, I returned to Hays in 2009. Hays has felt like home since I attended college from 2004-2006. I was recently awarded the Su and Denise Budd Exemplary Life Award at the Recovery Conference this June. I am so honored to be the recipient of this award. Su Budd was a teacher of mine in the 2009 leadership academy.
What do you now do for a living? How did you end up choosing this career path?
My job allows me to meet, influence, and educate people about mental health issues. I love helping people get their voice. This world is far from understanding mental health issues, and the little bit I can bring to light gives me peace of mind. After getting my degree at FHSU in 2006 in social work, I started with child welfare. But the change began when I found the CRO position. I am in my element! I am afforded many opportunities to stretch my educational boundaries. I am also the President of the Kansas Consumer Advisory Council and have served the Council for the past six years.
Why did you choose to attend FHSU?
FHSU was close to home and affordable. I loved everything about Fort Hays State! I got involved in the Social Work Club and found lasting friendships here. I had the best of the best when it came to teachers and peers. Many of us still communicate and cherish the bonds. We had more non-traditional students. I was just over 50 when I graduated. I will never regret going back and getting my education from FHSU.
What are your favorite memories from your time as a student?
A group of us non-traditional students lived at Wooster Apartments who studied together, shared meals, and helped each other with the pains of not being at home with our families. We became each other’s family away from home and even had a group party after graduation. I’m an avid sports fan and love football, volleyball, and basketball. I still attend as many a year as I can.
What advice do you have for current or prospective FHSU students?
Take advantage of all that’s offered. I can’t say enough good things about FHSU; I am a proud Tiger for life. Take time to know your peers, teachers, and other faculty. Have fun, and stay safe!
Tell us about someone at FHSU who has left a lasting impression:
Kenton Olliff was one of the people who changed my life and was always so supportive of services at the Kelly Center. He offered his time and resources to help those with a brain disorder. He is nonjudgmental and believes “each person has their answers inside.” You just have to take the time to learn about who you are. His motto: “Always choose to be kind, and it’s the little things that mean the most,” resonates with me. How he walks his life has given me the best visual advice on being a leader and raising leaders.
In what ways are you proud to be a Tiger?
Everybody that knows me knows I am a Tiger and a Tiger for life. My family knows that I’m busy on game days, period! You don’t plan a get-together during Octoberfest because I will be with my friends, celebrating reunions, at a game, and losing my voice.