Tell us about yourself:
I was born in Hays, America, but raised in Great Bend, KS. I graduated from FHSU in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance. I currently reside in my hometown of Great Bend, KS. I am married to Ryan Hammeke (2010 FHSU grad) and am a mom to Emma and Easton.
What do you now do for a living? How did you end up choosing this career path?
I work for the Great Bend Recreation Commission as the Aquatics, Adaptive Enrichment, and Marketing Director. The Rec world is different every day! I oversee the Enrichment/Fitness programs for our Adaptive patrons and 50-plus age group year-round.
This can be anything from cooking classes and Halloween dances to Tai Chi and Water Aerobic classes. When March rolls around, my aquatic position kicks into gear until the end of August. I certify most lifeguards in the surrounding area and oversee the daily operations of the Wetlands Waterpark. Interacting with the citizens of Great Bend during their leisure
time is one of the best parts of my job. We work hard to hold events/programs that allow our community members to find connections, get engaged, and have fun and play!
Why did you choose to attend FHSU?
Attending FHSU allowed me to move away from home while being close to family. My family has close ties to FHSU as well. My dad, sister, husband, and I all completed FHSU degrees, but I also have a long line of Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and In-Laws that FHSU degrees.
I knew FHSU would give me a quality education and the opportunities I was looking for while keeping my class sizes small. I wanted a great college experience without becoming a number in a classroom.
What are your favorite memories from your time as a student?
The life-long friendships that I gained throughout my four years at FHSU.
What advice do you have for current or prospective FHSU students?
Get involved. Besides the memories, the relationships you build with friends, teachers, and staff are invaluable.
Tell us about someone at FHSU who has left a lasting impression:
While attending FHSU, I worked on campus for the Office of Strategic Partnerships. I learned so much from Miss Cindy Elliott and Mary Meier. From dealing with foreign affairs to how to be a servant-leader, my experiences with them were impactful.
In what ways are you proud to be a Tiger?
My experiences at FHSU have helped shape where I am in life.
Additional comments:
In February 2023, I received the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Next Gen Award
https://greatbendpost.com/posts/82d0bdde-7ca1-4a25-b6af-7cac38cb52a2