Bails 'n Me: March 2013

UNI Graduation December 1997 with
Mom and Dad

UNI Graduation December 1997 with
Heath and Hope

These past couple of months have been a culmination of the past meeting the present and not-too-distant future. On March 18th I accepted a new job at the University of Northern Iowa. 15 years after receiving my B.A. degree from UNI, I get to return to campus as an Academic Advisor for the School of Health, Physical Education and Leisure Services (HPELS). I'll also have the opportunity to meet parents and prospective juniors and seniors in high school at Panther Peek Visit Days since part of my responsibilities will be presenting information about majors in UNI's College of Education. I can't
help but think that it is because of my past that I have landed a job at
my alma mater in a wonderful community closer to my loved ones.

Back in 1990 my High School English Teacher, Mr. Libke, encouraged me to take a public address piece to speech contest. Every year of high school afterwards and throughout my career, I've developed the confidence to get up in front of people and speak. Thank you Mr. Libke!

I also have to thank the Sumner School District for offering me a contract back in February 2002 where I began my work as a guidance counselor and developed the counseling skills necessary to work with adolescents. I'm so excited to meet the families and high school students at Panther Peek Days and share with them the wonderful opportunities at UNI. Thank you Sumner!

And finally, the past 7 years I've had the opportunity to serve Iowa Wesleyan College as Director of Career Services. Through this position I've learned so much about career fields such as education, physical therapy, exercise science and human services, along with meeting so many great people. I will get to continue enjoying one of the favorite parts of my job...meeting new students. Thank you IWC!

On a separate, but related treasured memory, this past January I was invited back to West Central High School for the recognition of the 6-on-6 WC and Oelwein basketball teams who faced off in the first round of the 1993 state basketball tournament. It was so great see Coach Klinge, as well as former teammates and classmates, Jody Bunn, Lisa Jipson, Angie Smith, Sarah Donat and Matt Milder. So many familiar faces at the game, memories shared, as well as a couple "they can't be that old already"!?! comments.