I was born and raised in Salina, KS and I graduated from FHSU in 2014 with an Organizational Leadership degree and a minor in Hospitality Tourism Management with an emphasis in Event Planning. I am married to Tyler York. We live, work, and volunteer in Wichita, Kansas, and share a dog named Buddy.
What do you now do for a living? How did you end up choosing this career path?
I am a Communications and Events Specialist for the REALTORS® of South Central Kansas. This career ultimately chose me. My love and experience in event planning and organization in high school and college ultimately led me to seek an internship that emphasized those skills. With the help of FHSU professor, Dr. Stacey Smith, I landed an internship with the Kansas State Fair. That internship led me to a career path focused on marketing and events
Why did you choose to attend FHSU?
I initially attended Kansas State University, and after a couple of years, it just felt too big to enjoy it. I asked my dad if we could tour his Alma Mater, Fort Hays State University, he (gladly) agreed, and it felt like the right next move, the place I’d call home. I loved the smaller environment. The class sizes were great to get to know other students and provided the opportunity for the professors to know me, my strengths, and areas that challenged me. Also, FHSU was one of the few schools at the time that offered a unique degree in Leadership Studies. Furthermore, it was so easy to get involved at FHSU and I quickly got involved in a different activity each weeknight. Finally, having to pay for college on my own, FHSU was respectfully the most affordable option.
What are your favorite memories from your time as a student?
My favorite memories from my time at FHSU are definitely stemmed from my involvement in activities. University Activities Board (UAB) provided a fun place to provide my input for valuable student events such as comedians, singers, and themed nights. Furthermore, my younger brother, Clay Peppiatt, joined the team when he was a freshman and I was a senior. That only provided more laughter and fun teaming up together. One of our best times with UAB (though many) was riding the golf cart together in the homecoming parade as a “filler.” Clay hilariously waved to the crowd like he was royalty.
What advice do you have for current or prospective FHSU students?
My advice to prospective students is to get involved! As stated previously, there are numerous activities for students to participate in, you just need to find at least one that is right for you to dedicate your time and talents to.
Tell us about someone at FHSU who has left a lasting impression:
Dr. Jill Arensdorf has left an unforgettable impression. From the day I toured FHSU with my dad and met her, all of the way to graduation day, her passion for helping me succeed was evident. Her leadership in the Leadership Studies Department was unmatched. She truly cared for her students and her staff and it showed each and every day.
In what ways are you proud to be a Tiger?
I am proud to be a Tiger because of the people. The professors, activity directors, and truly all staff on campus want the students to succeed. Meeting alumni anywhere in the world is such a fun experience because it’s not as big as some of the other state universities. You might learn that they shared a class with your dad or had the same amazing professor that you did!