“Much of what I’ve learned through my career has translated into my passion for philanthropy and volunteerism. I believe in using my time, resources and experience to uplift others, just as so many people did for me when I was a KWC student.
“When I moved back to Owensboro, I felt it was important to reinvest in the institution that played a big role in my life. Supporting KWC’s funds and initiatives has been a way to ensure future generations of students have access to the same opportunities I had.”
“I was a three-sport athlete at KWC; one year of basketball and four years of softball and volleyball.
“I’m honored to be a proud Kentucky Wesleyan alumna. My time at the College was foundational in shaping both my career and personal values, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to give back to a place that gave me so much.
“After spending 35 years in Nashville, I eventually moved back to Owensboro, which has given me a renewed appreciation for the impact KWC has on its students and the broader community.
“I was fortunate to work for FedEx as a courier for 26 years. I loved being the face of FedEx to my customers while taking care of their shipping needs. Competing at the collegiate level for KWC as a student-athlete helped me transition easily to being an industrial athlete for FedEx!
“My love of sports continues. I am a high school volleyball assigner in Nashville, Tenn., for the Middle Tennessee Volleyball Association. Being both a FedEx courier and volleyball assigner has reinforced the importance of communication, leadership, teamwork, time management and mentorship—values that were instilled in me during my time as a student athlete at KWC.
“I have been a volleyball assigner since 1997, and from the very beginning, I viewed assigning as mission work for God. I love giving back to the officials, student athletes and schools as I go about my daily business of assigning. I recruit and train people to become volleyball officials. I teach the current National Federation of High School Association rules, hold local meetings to meet the state requirements for volleyball officials and set the pay and bill the school for each match and level played.
“As someone who understands the impact of sports—both in terms of personal growth and community—I’ve been especially passionate about supporting KWC athletics, including the volleyball and softball programs. I believe athletics teaches discipline, teamwork and resilience, which carry over into every aspect of life.
“It’s been a privilege to come back and engage with student-athletes through sports panels.
“I enjoy sharing my journey and helping students understand the power of financial intelligence, leadership, perseverance and service.”
Thank you, Diana, for all you do for KWC! Always a Panther!