My husband (Joel) and I are life-long residents of Hays and Ellis County. We are proud to live on his family’s farm and enjoy working with the cattle, pigs and chickens on the farm. Our dog, Bobo, is our shadow and enjoys spending his time with us outdoors. When I am not outdoors with the animals or working in my garden, I love to bake, cook, and can the leftovers from my garden. Hays has been a wonderful home for us, so it is important that we preserve what makes it such a great place to work, live and play. This year, I am serving as the chair of the Hays Area Young Professionals Advisory Council. I am also honored to be newly appointed ambassador of the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce. Both organizations focus on engaging with local business owners and promoting our amazing town, which are two things I am greatly passionate about. I have served on the USD 489 Foundation for Educational Excellence board and the Hays Homeless Coalition board for the past two years. In 2015, with great support from several individuals and groups, I established the USD 489 Hope Pantry. The pantry has given out 430 food, hygiene and clothing boxes to date. Continued support from our community drives the pantry’s ability to serve the families in USD 489 who may go hungry without its assistance.
What do you now do for a living? How did you end up choosing this career path?
I have the privilege to serve as the board clerk and assistant to the superintendent at USD 489 for the last 3 ½ years. After working in retail for thirteen years, I wanted a career that would allow me to spend more time with my family. Before switching my degree at FHSU to business management, I was an elementary education major. Being the board clerk and assistant to the superintendent provides me with the opportunity to fuel both of my passions, business and education.
Why did you choose to attend FHSU?
The College of Education at FHSU has graduated numerous teachers who had a great impact on my life. I wanted to continue in that legacy. There is no need to leave Hays for an affordable and quality-filled educational experience. FHSU continues to set the bar high in affordability and quality.
What are your favorite memories from your time as a student?
My favorite memories from Fort Hays include attending the football and basketball games and enjoying the beautiful view on campus. There is something special about the architecture of the buildings, the limestone, and their history. I am still overcome with a great sense of pride when I am on campus.
What advice do you have for current or prospective FHSU students?
FHSU provides a safe, supportive and structured educational experience. Don’t wait until you are an adult living in the real world to get involved. Your overall experience as a student will be enriched if you get involved in campus activities and organizations.
Tell us about someone at FHSU who has left a lasting impression:
Dr. Paul Adams has left a lasting impression on me. He has a unique way of making work look like fun. His excitement and passion for education shined brightly in class. Dr. Adams’ energy was contagious, and he tried to instill that into his students. He has always been such a strong advocate for education. Dr. Adams balances his work, family, and volunteerism better than anyone I know. I admired his drive to make an impactful difference in the lives of his students, his family and the community. Life has come full circle, as I have the privilege of working with him again as he serves as a school board member on the USD 489 Board of Education. Our community is lucky to have his service and dedication.
In what ways are you proud to be a Tiger?
Being a Tiger means being a part of your community and leaving something better than when you found it. Being a Tiger is persevering through life’s challenges and overcoming the unlikeliest of odds. Being a Tiger means taking chances knowing that you will succeed if you put your mind to it. FHSU is at the heart of Hays, whether it be the students, faculty, staff or alumni. I could not be more proud to be a pulse in that heart.