Just taking a glance at Megan Hammeke’s title at the Great Bend Recreation Commission could be seen as an indication of why she was selected for the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce NextGen Leader Award.
As marketing, aquatics and program director, Hammeke’s reach extends throughout The Rec and into the community. The award was presented Saturday, Feb. 25 at the Great Bend Events Center.
Chris Umphres, The Rec director, like others in the community, was not surprised that Hammeke was honored in this way.
“Megan is very involved in her hometown community, and is well-liked and respected,” Umphres said. “She does a great job and doesn’t have to be micro-managed. She knows what to do and just does it. Megan has a real passion for her work.
“In all her activities here, Megan works well with her colleagues and is a team player.”
At the same time, Umphres added, Hammeke has found the balance between work and home. “Family is big to Megan and she shares a lot of her time with them,” Umphres said.
Hammeke has a bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Performance from Fort Hays State University. She also is certified as a Park & Recreation Professional and is nationally certified as an Aquatics Facility Operator.
“These certifications entail continuing education that allow Megan to stay current in our profession,” Umphres noted. “She also is involved with our state organization, sits on boards and is well-known at our conferences.”
Marissa Woodmansee, director of Juvenile Services, has known Hammeke professionally and personally for about 15 years.
“We have worked together, especially through Central Kansas Partnership and her involvement in Youth Crew,” Woodmansee said. “And our kids went to school together. Megan is such a deserving person – a hidden gem because of all the different roles she plays.”
For example, she added, “Megan is helping take the Barton County Young Professionals to new levels. Also, when she attends conferences, she shares what she learned and has a knack for getting people fired up and following through on ideas.
“We get so wrapped up in the busy-busy of life. Megan recognizes that it is good to slow down and get away sometimes.”
Mentor to others
Sheridan Beaumont has known Hammeke for most of her life and ultimately worked for her at Wetlands Waterpark.
“Not only was Megan a great boss, she is a great friend,” Beaumont said. “The many hours we spent together were full of teamwork and fun. She created so many opportunities for us to laugh while we learned.
“Megan also taught me about leadership and instilled in me a passion for safety on the job. Her mentorship has meant the world to me. Her guidance has shaped me, and so many others. Megan’s hard work and dedication shine bright. I truly cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award.”
Andrea Bauer, USD 428 director of public information, also noted Hammeke’s work at the waterpark. “She is often the first boss for up to 30 teenagers but goes beyond her official role. Megan becomes a mentor and positive influence for young people today and for years to come.
“She also makes meaningful connections with the special-needs community and senior citizens by offering programming for these populations.”
Bauer, who nominated Hammeke for the award, noted many other reasons she should be recognized but summed it up by saying “Megan works tirelessly to propel our community forward. She has a magnetic personality that draws people together in meaningful ways.
“At The Rec and beyond, she advocates for our youth and invests time in their development. She is a servant leader who is always willing to roll up her sleeves and get the work done.”
Family
Ryan Hammeke, Megan’s husband, realizes his wife is recognized for what she does on the job and as a volunteer “but she puts so much extra into her efforts that most people never see.”
For example, she writes to former waterpark employees in the off season while they are back at school. She just wants to check in with them and show appreciation for their work.
“Megan has created a culture at the waterpark that attracts teenagers to become part of a team,” Ryan said. “But she also teaches the responsibilities that come with a job and career. She volunteers for multiple committees with the sole purpose of improving our community.”
While others comment about Hammeke’s love for her family, Ryan sees it first-hand. “She is the best mother and wife, and has a special relationship with each kid. Whether it is dance, wrestling, swimming, basketball or something else, she is right there cheering them on.
Their children are Emma, 11, and Easton, 8.
“Megan is my best friend and even during busy seasons at work, she makes time for us,” Ryan commented. “She loves camping at the lake with family, including her parents, David and Stacey Brenner, and extended family. And we get together with close friends, while letting all the kids be kids.”
Ryan also noted that since his wife plays so many roles in her job, some don’t see the “other Megan.”
“She is a blast to be around,” he explained. “Megan strikes an incredible balance of being a fun-loving girl, singing at the top of her lungs and dancing, while also being a driven professional woman. The lucky ones get to see both sides.”
NextGen Leader of the Year Award Criteria
The NextGen Leader of the Year award is presented annually to an individual creating a meaningful impact as a rising leader in Barton County, Kansas. Nominees are leaders in their work environment, as well as in the community. This award is presented by the Barton County Young Professionals, a program of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce.
Previous NextGen Award Recipients
2021 Chuy Loera
2020 Andrea Bauer
2019 Ryan Fairchild
2018 Rachel Mawhirter
2017 Jason Mayers
2016 Regan Reif
2015 Matt Hiss
2014 Dr. Nels Lindberg
2013 Kristy Straub
2012 Cody Lee