By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
When Megan Hammeke found out she was named the NextGen Leader of the
Year she was initially overwhelmed with shock. Then nervousness quickly settled
in knowing she had to give a speech in front of hundreds of people without
anything prepared. Through all the emotions, Hammeke was able to deliver a
thankful speech this past Saturday evening at the Great Bend Chamber of
Commerce Banquet.
“I’m just thankful for the job I have at the Great Bend Recreation Commission,”
said Hammeke. “The Rec has a really great team. I made sure to thank Ryan
(husband) and my family because they have been voluntold more times than I can
count to help put on the Rec events. They’re always helping me do great things.”
RELATED STORY: Great Bend Chamber names Hammeke as NextGen Leader of the Year
Hammeke serves as the marketing, aquatics and program director at the Rec
Commission. Growing up in Great Bend and now raising two children in her
hometown, Hammeke said it was only natural to give back to this community.
“I just want my kids to have a great experience when it’s their turn to be in
Great Bend,” said Hammeke. “I want them to be proud of where they came from and
have great memories of the things they did. I want to deliver that to the rest
of the community as well. Let’s make a community that people love.”
The NextGen Leader of the Year award is presented annually to an individual
creating a meaningful impact as a rising leader in Barton County. The award is
presented by the Barton County Young Professionals, a program of the Great Bend
Chamber.
“You get so used to being in the day-to-day of what you’re doing that you
forget that other people see what you’re doing,” said Hammeke. “The award does
show that people are watching and it’s making a difference. Most of the stuff I
do is community involved. Without the community involvement and appreciation,
there is really no point in my job. It’s great to know that everyone sees that
and wants us to keep going.”
The NextGen Leader of the Year award has been given out since 2012.