I am a Plainville, Kansas native and hold two degrees from Fort Hays State University: a B.S. in Computer Information Systems and an M.B.A. in Management. My career path has taken me on various journeys, including managing a dental office in Hays with my late husband, serving as an adjunct instructor in the FHSU Leadership Department, and directing the Office of Sponsored Projects at Washburn University. I earned the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification in 2020 and completed the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH)’s Rural Health Data Institute in 2019. I am a graduate of the Leadership Hays program, offered through the Kansas Leadership Center, and a member of the Topeka Konza Leadership alumni group. I currently serve as the Advisory Council Chair for the Pine Ridge Family Health Center, a primary and urgent care clinic located in Topeka’s Pine Ridge public housing community.
What do you now do for a living? How did you end up choosing this career path?
I currently serve as a grant consultant/writer for the Plainville Community Foundation (Plainville, KS) and am a network partner of Tumbleweed Resources. My extensive experience with and knowledge of all aspects of sponsored projects, including grant seeking and writing, developing, and administering budgets, and federal, state, and private grant management, lead me to this career path.
Why did you choose to attend FHSU?
FHSU was close to home (Plainville) and offered an excellent educational opportunity for me as a first-generation college student.
What are your favorite memories from your time as a student?
Being involved with Alpha Kappa Psi and the great friendships I made during my college experience.
What advice do you have for current or prospective FHSU students?
Never stop exploring and pursuing your dreams. And, more importantly, never stop learning!!
Tell us about someone at FHSU who has left a lasting impression:
Dr. Robert Meier was my undergraduate advisor and a faculty member who inspired me to do my best. He was always available to answer questions or offer a new perspective on a problem. He encouraged me to pursue my Master’s degree at FHSU and, for that, I will be eternally grateful.
In what ways are you proud to be a Tiger?
The University’s service to the students in western Kansas and commitment to forward thinking and innovation makes me proud to be a Tiger!!