Amy Kean VerSteeg ’96

The best part about working at Franklin College is being part of a community that is incredibly hard-working and deeply devoted to the institutional mission. I thoroughly enjoy my role working in communications because it provides me with the opportunity to get acquainted with students of various backgrounds and at different stages in their college journey. It is incredibly fulfilling to hear their backstories, learn about their aspirations and watch them achieve their goals. Additionally, connecting with our alumni is a source of great joy for me. Learning about their successes and the impact of Franklin College on their lives is both inspiring and gratifying. It truly reinforces my passion for the work we do here, and it makes me very proud to be a Franklin College alumna as well as an employee.

Homecoming and Alumni Week is my favorite tradition because it brings together Grizzlies from different generations and allows everyone to relive cherished memories and create new ones. The Old Gold luncheon for alumni who graduated 50 or more years ago is particularly special to me since the folks attending can recall distinct and important college and world history periods that helped shape and define the Franklin College we know today. Their stories are irreplaceable portals to the past and an inspiration for the future.

I love to travel, and visiting Australia in the year 2000, when Sydney hosted the Olympics is one of my favorite memories. That trip was with a group of Franklin College students, alumni and faculty, which added to the fun. Besides visiting significant landmarks and cultural sites, we had several opportunities to interact with the wildlife of Australia, including wild kangaroos. I hope to go back someday.