KRISTEN T

Kristen was nominated by her husband, Dan, who says, “I am in awe of my wife! She has been an elementary school counselor for years before the pandemic, during the pandemic, and I see her being one for many years. The stories of how she supports and cares for students blow me away and leave me in wonder of her talent and selflessness. It amazes me how she still has anything left to give when she gets home and cares for me and our three daughters. The stress of the pandemic on educators is something I cannot understand fully and the increase in students’ mental health needs that she eagerly addresses and supports each day is beyond my comprehension. Every morning she still wakes up with renewed energy and proudly leaves our house to make lives better for children.”

She also excels as a mom! Dan says, “Sometimes I am able to catch a glimpse of her talents when one of our three pre-teen daughters is upset about something. I listen from the other side of the bedroom door and learn how to be a better listener, how to ask questions that are mindful and non-threatening, and learn the power of just sitting with someone and sharing space. I am so grateful for her. Thank you for the opportunity to celebrate this woman who gives so much of herself and whom I am lucky to call mine.”

Kristen shares a quote that inspires her, “People don’t remember what you said, but they remember how you made them feel.”

-Author unknown