Stephanie Irwin ’07

I moved back to Hays in March 2017 from Topeka. I am the proud mother of two boys ages 11 & 18 months. My academic journey began as a student at Colby Community College. I then transferred to FHSU to pursue a bachelor degree in social work. I then completed my master’s in social work at Wichita State University as FHSU did not have a program at that time.

What do you now do for a living? How did you end up choosing this career path? I am currently employed as a therapist at High Plains Mental Health Center. I worked for Stormont Vail Behavioral Health for the past 8 years and decided I wanted to return back home to work with people in Western Kansas. Initially, I had chosen to pursue Elementary Education yet, as I began to work more with children and families, I decided to change my major and apply to the social work program at FHSU.

Why did you choose to attend FHSU? I am happy to call Western Kansas my home. FHSU has a great social work program and allowed me to remain within a close distance to my family.

What are your favorite memories from your time as a student? I met a lot of great people through the social work program at FHSU. I still maintain contact with some of them. One of my favorite memories included having the opportunity to ride along with Wichita Police Department during one of my courses.

In what ways are you proud to be a Tiger? I had a positive and challenging experience during my time at FHSU. I met a lot of great people. I proudly display my Fort Hays diploma! I am considering possible teaching opportunities through FHSU in the future.

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