Growing up, my Catholic faith was important to me, but it wasn’t the center of my life until college. I went to Fort Hays State University, and by the grace of God, I came across the Catholic Campus Center for their welcome night. They passed around an Eucharistic Adoration sign-up sheet. I signed up for what I thought was an hour that next week. But it turned out I signed up for an entire semester of holy hours. Those hours changed my life completely. I began to pray more and became drawn to the Eucharist. There was a peace in that chapel I couldn’t find anywhere else on campus.

The next year, I encountered a FOCUS missionary who walked with me, taught me how to pray even deeper, showed me authentic friendship, and reminded me of my goodness. Through daily Mass, adoration, and confession, I became aware of Jesus’ healing love and mercy. I came to know Him as my father and my friend. Towards my senior year, I knew I wanted to graduate with my degree, but felt Him pull me in a different direction. I accepted a position as the Development Director at the Comeau Catholic Campus Center in Hays and worked there for two years, my first year while I finished my degree. Those two years taught me more about mission, and I became aware of the deeper need in these students’ hearts.

During SEEK ’25, being a missionary was placed on my heart. I saw in these students a longing to be seen, known, and loved. I discerned where the Lord was leading me, specifically praying, “Shepherd me, O God, beyond my wants, beyond my fears” (Psalm 23:1). Through prayer and surrender, it was evident He was calling me to be a missionary! My greatest desire is for others to encounter Jesus Christ and place Him at the center of their lives. I am honored and overjoyed to walk with college students and remind them that they are seen, known, and loved.

When I answered the call to join FOCUS, I made the decision to rely on the spiritual and financial support of mission partners to help me through this mission. I’ve been blessed with the most amazing people who have journeyed with me as I serve on campus. If you are interested in partnering with me, please let me know the best way to reach you, and I will schedule an appointment. I’d be honored to share this mission with you. My cell is (620) 393-1034, and my email is [email protected].