2023 - 20 Under 40 Magazine

Great Bend Tribune Presents

Committed to caring for the Great Bend Community.

Jake Thompson, DPT Regional manager of rehabilitation services

The University of Kansas Health System in Great Bend is committed to caring for our community and meeting the needs of you and your loved ones. Our teams offer services to address your primary and specialty care.

Although our entire team cares for the community, we are proud to congratulate our team members who have been recognized among Great Bend Tribune’s 20 Under 40 for 2023.

KansasHealthSystem.com/GreatBend

Yuchen Wang Boswell Strategic marketing senior liaison

The Great Bend Tribune is proud to recognize and present the second group of young community leaders with the 20 Under 40 Award. Showcasing twenty leaders – all under the age of 40 in this magazine.

As the talent pool of young professionals throughout the region continues to grow, it is time to honor and recognize these individuals.

This 20 Under 40 magazine features 20 young professionals younger than 40 years of age who exemplify leadership, community involvement and professionalism. We are honoring entrepreneurs, doctors, bankers, attorneys, marketing professionals and more. The list will continue to grow as we yearly showcase the emerging leaders and honor these talents which support our communities each day.

The program recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in their careers and/or in the community. In addition to honoring the recipients, the program is intended to help motivate young people throughout our area to become community leaders.

Each year we will be soliciting nominations for potential candidates. The date for submissions next year is August 13, 2024.

From these candidates, an independent panel of judges selects twenty leaders to receive the award at a recognition program. Judges this year consisted of past recipients. With many well-qualified nominations, the judges were challenged to select just 20 people.

These individuals are committed to making a difference in our community and creating a lasting impact. They are the doers, dreamers, and difference-makers.

Publisher, Judy Duryee said “These winners show excellence in their careers, put a priority on community service and want to make their community the best it can be. I find joy in seeing the impact they are making on our community.”

We are honoring and celebrating them Friday, Oct. 27, at 6pm during the Final Fridays on Forest Event, at the Great Bend Alive Plaza. Please join us in saluting these young dynamic leaders!

GREAT BEND

Tribune

tribune.com

Go online at www.gbtribune.com OR call to subscribe

620-792-1211, ext. 213 • 800-950-8742 2012 Forest Ave., Great Bend, KS 67530

Rob Bauer............................................4 Kelci Burkey........................................5 Karisa Cowan.....................................6 Patrick Cowan....................................7 Ryan Fairchild.....................................7 Megan Hammeke..............................8 Amanda Hoffman..............................8 Danielle Hollingshead........................8 Tarynn Kirmer....................................10 Jay Luerman.....................................12 Megan Martinez...............................13 Rachel Mawhirter.............................14 Christopher McCord.........................14 Haley Ruble.......................................15 Cody Schmidt...................................16 Cole Schwarz....................................17 Lundy Settle.......................................17 Jake Thompson................................18 Yuchen Wang Boswell......................18 Megan Wells.....................................19

20 Under 40 | 3

Professional Career:

Rob was born and raised in Great Bend. He graduated from Washburn University in 2007 and Washburn University School of Law in 2010. Practicing with a Topeka law firm for the first few years of his career, he and his wife Andrea, moved back to Great Bend in 2012. Rob is a member of the law firm of Bauer, Pike, Bauer, Wary, Carroll, & Gunn, LLC. He serves on the Southwest Kansas Bar Association board of directors as a current director and past president. He is also a member of the Kansas Bar Association and Barton County Bar Association. In addition to his legal career, Rob and his wife are part owners of a commercial real estate company, B&H Development, LLC.

Community Involvement:

Rob Bauer

Age: 39 Attorney, Bauer, Pike, Bauer, Wary, Carroll, & Gunn, LLC

Serving his community has always been a priority for Rob. In addition to his involvement in professional associations, Rob is a past president and board member of Great Bend Kiwanis, Vice Chair and President-Elect of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, and is the President of Almost Home, Inc. Rob also serves on the board of directors for several local organizations including Central Kansas Development, Inc. and Kansas Oil and Gas Hall of Fame and Museum. Rob is an active member of First United Methodist Church, serving numerous roles in the past and is currently the church’s Lay Delegate to Annual Conference. Rob and Andrea have three boys. Several nights a week you’ll find Rob either coaching youth sports or cheering on the sidelines.

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Professional Career:

Kelci graduated from Hoisington High School in 2004. She then attended Butler County Community College, followed by Wichita State University where she earned a Masters of Physician Assistant. She started her career as a PA in Wichita at Hunter Health Clinic, a clinic for underserved populations. She then had an opportunity to move back to her hometown and began working for Clara Barton Medical Center, where she continues today.

Community Involvement:

When the opportunity presented itself for Kevin and Kelci to move back to Hoisington they jumped on the opportunity as this is where they knew they needed to be. Kelci loved growing up in a small town and wanted to raise her family in the same environment. She enjoys being able to participate in her children’s activities by coaching multiple sports through the Rec Center.

She is an active member of the GPS board of directors and has volunteered for the Hoisington Elementary Parents Association and the Junior Cardinal Club. She helps teach Sunday School and Vacation Bible School at Emmanuel Lutheran Church.

Kelci Burkey

Age: 38 Physician Associate, Clara Barton Medical Center

Congratulations Amanda & Kelci!

We are honored to have you both playing integral roles within our organization!

250 W 9th St | Hoisington, KS | 620.653.2114

Amanda Hoffman VP/Director of Pharmacy

Kelci Burkey, PA-C Family Care Provider

20 Under 40 | 5

Professional Career:

Karisa was born and raised in Hoisington. After graduating from Hoisington High School, she graduated from Barton Community College, then Fort Hays State University. After graduating from Fort Hays, she began her career at Hoisington Middle School teaching reading, robotics, science, and STEM. While teaching she was awarded the Kansas Horizon Award for exemplary teaching and the Kansas Ag Excellence in Teaching Award. In her 5 years there, she self-funded and built a greenhouse, as well as began the robotics program in the Middle School. Karisa has always strived to enhance the learning experiences of students. After receiving her master’s degree, graduating Summa Cum Laude, she transitioned to the principal position at Lincoln Elementary in Hoisington where she has been the last 5 years.

Community Involvement:

Being a school principal involves you with the community every day. I am blessed to be surrounded by great people. When not involved with school programs and projects, I enjoy teaching CCD classes for St. John the Evangelist Church as well as serving as Vice President of the board of directors for Clara Barton Hospital.

My husband Patrick and I are former co-chairs of the United Way of Central Kansas and support the Barton County Young Professionals organization. In our spare time we enjoy playing pickleball and socializing. We are excited to be welcoming our first child early next year.

Karisa Cowan

Age: 31 Lincoln Elementary Principal, Hoisington USD 431

Hoisington USD 431 Congratulates

Karisa Cowan

for receiving a 20 Under 40 Award for 2023.

Congratulations Ryan!

Hoisington USD 431 6 | 20 Under 40

Professional Career:

I grew up in the Overland Park area but moved to Barton County in 2008 and graduated from Hoisington High School. I went on to get my associate’s degree in Computer Networking from Barton Community College and my bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems from Fort Hays State University. I got my start in the IT field as the Assistant Technology Director at USD 431 in 2010. I started at Adams Brown LLC CPA Firm in 2014 where I am currently the IT Operations manager. I lead, maintain, and support the day-to-day operations and staff of the IT department.

Community Involvement:

Patrick Cowan

Age: 31 IT Operations Manager, Adams Brown LLC

I think there is a great opportunity for community involvement in Great Bend and Barton County. Currently, I volunteer as the Vice President of the Board for United Way of Central Kansas, I am a Chamber Ambassador for the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, I am a member of the Technology Advisory Board for Barton Community College, and I sit on a couple of committees for Great Bend Alive. My wife and I enjoy attending many events in Barton County including Fridays on Forest, plays and musical productions put on at the Crest Theater and BCC, and many other happenings in the area.

Professional Career:

I graduated from Larned High School in 2005 then attended Barton Community College and graduated in 2007 with an associate degree. I’ve worked multiple jobs in the community including IT at CPI. In March 2010, I began working for Innovative Livestock Services as a Technology Specialist. In 2019 Kevin Burkey and I began construction on Dry Lake Brewing. We opened the doors on May 6, 2021.

Community Involvement:

I’m passionate about the health of our civic pride and community. You can find me putting in work for multiple boards, initiatives, and charities all with a common goal of making Great Bend and Kansas better. We can do anything, PERIOD. In my downtime, I enjoy spending time with my beautiful wife Marisa and our two amazing children Annalynn and Emma whose support makes it all possible.

Ryan Fairchild

Age: 37 Co-Owner, Brewer, Dry Lake Brewing Technology Specialist, ILS

20 Under 40 | 7

Professional Career:

Megan was raised in Great Bend, graduated from Great Bend High School, and attended Fort Hays State University where she received her Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance with an emphasis in Health Promotion of Wellness.

After graduating from FHSU in 2010, she returned to Great Bend and then in 2011, accepted a job with the Great Bend Recreation Commission where she currently holds the position of Aquatics, Enrichment, and Marketing Director. In 20202, she became a Certified Park and Recreation Professional through the National Recreation and Park Association and is also a certified Aquatics Facility Operator. “I truly love Great Bend and getting to interact with the citizens of Great Bend during their leisure time is one of the best parts of my job. We work hard to bring them events/ programs that allow them to find connections within our community, to get to be engaged, and to just have fun and play!”

She and her husband Ryan have two children, Emma (11) and Easton (9).

Community Involvement:

Megan Hammeke

Age: 36 Aquatics, Enrichment, and Marketing Director, Great Bend REC

Over the years, she has enjoyed volunteering in community organizations including the Great Bend Chamber Ambassadors, Barton County Young Professionals Steering Committee, Great Bend Chamber Board of Directors, Central Kansas Partnership Board, Golden Belt Swim Club, and First Christian Church. Additionally, she volunteers for the Kansas Recreation and Parks Aquatic Branch.

Megan was selected as the 2022 NextGen Leader of the Year by the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce.

Congratulations Megan Hammeke!

GREAT BEND

RECREATION COMMISSION

GB RECREATION CENTER, 1214 STONE STREET GB ACTIVITY CENTER, 2715 18TH STREET 620-793-3755 WWW.GREATBENDREC.COM 8 | 20 Under 40

2023

Professional Career:

Amanda graduated from Olpe High School in 2004 and was awarded a scholarship to the University of Saint Mary for academics, community service, and leadership. There she received a Bachelor of Science in Biology/Chemistry in 2008. She then attended the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy where she obtained a Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2012, in addition to receiving the distinguished Professionalism Award.

She worked in various pharmacy settings in Barton County and various roles including management. In 2018, she was promoted to Director of Pharmacy at Clara Barton Medical Center then was later promoted to her current role as VP/Chief Operating Officer in 2020. During the summer of 2023, she served as Interim CEO for Clara Barton Medical Center.

Community Involvement:

Amanda Hoffman

Age: 37 VP/COO/Director of Pharmacy Clara Barton Medical Center

Having been raised in a small town with a strong sense of community pride has helped guide my path to where I am today. I love working in a small-town community hospital where I get to work with an excellent team of healthcare professionals that together strive to better the health and wellness of the communities and patients we serve. I participate in a variety of committees and volunteer in activities that help advance wellness, such as Community Health Needs Assessment, Community Lab Fairs, Bike Safety Rodeo, Meals on Wheels, and Vaccination Drives. I serve as a pharmacist preceptor for students, many of whom grew up in Barton County.

Outside of my role in healthcare, I enjoy attending and participating in community events, such as parades, farmers market, chamber coffee, recreational activities, and ministering and volunteering at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and Holy Family School, as well as coaching youth sports.

Professional Career:

Danielle was born and raised in Claflin, graduated from Claflin Jr./Sr. High and earned bachelor’s degrees in both accounting and in finance at Fort Hays State University. Danielle began her career at Adams Brown in 2009. Starting as a staff accountant, Danielle gained experience in all facets of being a CPA, but quickly realized her passion for auditing. She began auditing exclusively, focusing heavily on local governments. Danielle quickly rose to become the leader of Adams Brown governmental audit practice where she currently manages a team of 6 full-time governmental auditors, as well as over 100 governmental audit clients throughout the state. Danielle is the past chair of the Kansas Municipal Audit and Accounting Guide (KMAAG) Board of Editors, where she and colleagues from across the state set policies and guidelines for governments and auditors alike to follow when auditing municipalities.

Community Involvement:

Outside of work, Danielle is busy taking care of 3 very active little girls, as well as 1 quickly growing little boy! Danielle and her husband, along with family, are active in coaching volleyball, basketball and softball sporting teams for their children. Danielle is also an active member of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), Kansas State Society of CPAs (KSCPA) and Governmental Finance Officers Association (GFOA). She also sits on the conference committee for the annual KSCPA Governmental and NFP conference.

Danielle Hollingshead Age 38 CPA, Adams Brown, LLC

20 Under 40 | 9

Professional Career:

After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Kansas State University I accepted an opportunity with Textron Aviation in Wichita, KS as a Recruiter. I had a lead role in the Wings for Dreams event where Textron Aviation raised $3.1 million for Rainbows United, a non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of special needs children and their families, through a unique benefit concert.

I then decided it was time to come back home to Barton County. I was the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources at Farmers Bank & Trust in Great Bend. In this position I was responsible for all HR aspects for more than 100 employees located at 9 different branches.

I am currently the Invoice Account Manager with Stueder Contractors. Stueder Contractors is a family owned business that has been serving the community for nearly 40 years, and I am excited to continue the tradition of excellence.

Community Involvement:

Tarynn Kirmer

Age: 27 Invoice Account Manager, Stueder Contractors Inc.

I was born and raised in Great Bend. After earning my degree at Kansas State University and gaining experience in Wichita I was eager to return to the Golden Belt Community. I love volunteering in the community. I am currently serving on the Board of Directors for Barton Community College Foundation, and I am serving as a Great Bend Chamber of Commerce Ambassador. I am an active member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Claflin.

In my free time I enjoy playing on rec volleyball, softball, and basketball teams. My husband, Benn and I welcomed our first child, Keeley last December. We are excited to grow and raise our family in the Barton County community.

Congratulations 2023 Recipients Great Bend Noon Lions Club A service organization affiliated with Lions Club International

“We Serve” is our motto For more information about our club call or text Dee Holman 620-786-4667

10 | 20 Under 40

We are proud to acknowledge our young leaders in the area communities.

We would also like to extend an invitation on behalf of all civic organizations to come and see what we have to offer.

Stueder Contractors is proud to serve our community by supplying quality sales and service for your heating/cooling, electrical, plumbing, water treatment and pool/spa needs.

We are even more proud of our business colleague, Tarynn Stueder-Kirmer, on her 20 Under 40 Award.

Congratulations, Tarynn!

3410 10th St., Great Bend, Kansas 620-792-6044 / 800-272-6068 20 Under 40 | 11

Professional Career:

Jay grew up in Ashland, Kansas and graduated from Ashland High School in 2012. He majored in Agri-Business with a minor in Finance at Fort Hays State University. In June of 2016, he moved to Great Bend directly after graduation from Fort Hays State University to begin his banking career at First Kansas Bank.

Jay is a Commercial/Ag Lender, his role and responsibilities are to effectively communicate, analyze, and structure loan requests with new and current clients. He also serves as the Great Bend Branch Manager and serves on the Management Team. His professional continuing education consists of graduating from three Schools of Banking presented by Kansas and Nebraska Banking Association and currently is attending Graduate School of Banking in Boulder, Colorado. He is the current Vice President of the Golden Belt Bankers Association. Jay and his wife, Joanna, have two sons, Lane and Cooper. The family looks forward to continuing to serve the community.

Community Involvement:

Jay Luerman

Age: 30 Commercial Ag Lender, First Kansas Bank

C ongratulations!

“I am fortunate to work for an employer that understands the importance of community involvement, as I truly believe that we live in one of the most generous communities in the whole state of Kansas.” Throughout my time in this community, I am fortunate to help volunteer and serve on many committees and boards such as: Barton County Young Professionals, Barton Community College Foundation, Barton Community College Ag Advisory, Kiwanis Club of Great Bend, Grace Community Church, Great Bend Chamber, and Kids Ag Day.

We Congratulate this year’s 20 Under 40 Award Recipients.

Jay

We are very proud to have you as a member of our Bank Family and our community.

Marmie Ford 620.793.5427 800.284.4941

Marmie Chrysler 620.792.2571 800.239.7840

Marmie Chevrolet 620.792.8266 800.794.4675

www.marmies.net 12 | 20 Under 40

Professional Career:

After graduating in 2008 from Great Bend High School, before entering the workforce I dedicated myself to being a young mother to three children and a supportive wife. My career began with part-time work in the retail sector. I focused on customer service skills and enjoyed understanding clients’ needs as I transitioned from being a stay-at-home mom, to a professional in the workforce. My dedication to learning and growth happened quickly as I attended banking classes and training programs.

This commitment led me to becoming a full-time Consumer Lender and Universal Banker at Sunflower Bank. My career path has allowed me immense growth and satisfaction as my passion and dedication to community and family met opportunity through Sunflower Bank in Ellinwood. Sunflower Bank shares my philosophy of family, community, and giving back, thus allowing me opportunity, support, and encouragement to be as involved as I am.

Community Involvement:

Megan Martinez

Age 33 Consumer Lender and Universal Banker, Sunflower Bank

I am both honored and humbled to be recognized as one of the “20 Under 40” individuals in our community. My initial introduction into community service was as a proud parent, standing on the sidelines, and watching my children in their sports. It was a role filled with joy and pride, but it also ignited a desire within me to do more. This desire led me to serve on The Eagle Backerz board, an organization committed to rallying behind and supporting all students in the Ellinwood community. As a member of this board, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to a spirited environment for our youth. Active participation in our local schools became a natural progression of my community involvement. My journey in community service took yet another turn when I decided to become a coach for the Ellinwood Recreation Commission and Velocity Volleyball Club.

Great Bend Tribune Presents

Congratulations to those recognized and selected to be in this group of 20 under 40 business stars.

You are inspiring leaders who are influencing the direction of this community.

We applaud you for your professional success and community involvement.

You are the agents of change.

GREAT BEND

Tribune 20 Under 40 | 13

Professional Career:

Rachel was born and raised in Great Bend, graduating from Great Bend High School in 2007, before attending Barton Community College and playing on the women’s tennis team. She then graduated from Fort Hays State University in 2011. During college, Rachel also worked for the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce where she worked to improve and expand the marketing and communications benefits available to the organization’s members. It was there that she found a passion for helping businesses tell their story and stay in front of potential customers, which ultimately led to her starting her own brand management and design firm known as Marketing Maven Consulting. Founded in 2016, Marketing Maven primarily serves as an outsourced marketing department for growing companies across the Midwest. But they also do website design, video production, photography, graphic design, consulting, public speaking, and other special projects. In 2018, Marketing Maven received the Business of the Year award from the Hoisington Chamber of Commerce. In 2019, Rachel received the NextGen Leader of the Year award from the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce. Outside of work, Rachel stays busy raising three sons between the ages of 3 and 12 with her husband, Justin.

Community involvement:

Rachel Mawhirter

Age 34 Owner, Marketing Maven Consulting

Over the years, I have helped champion different causes such as Habitat for Humanity, The Prairie Godmother Funds, MOPS, Barton County Young Professionals, ElderCare, 100 People Who Care Barton County, and other nonprofit organizations. Most recently, I have enjoyed volunteering with the Barton Arts Movement, the Family Crisis Center, and at Central Kansas Christian Academy. I am also very involved at Encounter Church, helping in children’s ministry, worship team, and leading a group for Young Couples.

Professional Career: I purchased The Historic Wolf Hotel at age 26. I sold my house to purchase the building and moved into the hotel for six months to get the project off the ground. I was joined with a group of volunteers with a goal to bring The Historic Wolf Hotel back to life.

I have led the project for ten years now and we have successfully re-opened the hotel rooms for overnight accommodations, we have created a beautiful venue space, and we have worked on restoring a part of the Ellinwood underground tunnel system, complete with a working speakeasy.

Furthermore, my love for historic buildings and houses in general have led me to get my real estate license and has allowed me to offer advice and professionalism in helping people purchase their homes.

I have been with Carr Auction and Real Estate for 4 years.

Community involvement: Chris is involved with the Ellinwood Historical Society and helps preserve Ellinwood’s history.

Christopher McCord

Age 36 Owner, The Historic Wolf Hotel Realtor, Carr Auction and Real Estate

14 | 20 UNDER 40

Professional Career:

Haley graduated from Hoisington High School in 2012, where she was honored as being in the top one percent of high school seniors. She graduated from Wichita State University in 2015 with a degree in Strategic Communication. While in college, she was actively involved as President of PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America).

In 2018, she earned her Master of Business Administration from WSU. She began her career as a Social Media and Website Specialist for Wichita Public Schools where she was actively involved with KANSPRA (Kansas School Public Relations Association) before returning to Great Bend. She worked for Fuller Industries as the Director of Marketing before making the decision to begin her own business. Freestyle Marketing does social media and marketing for multiple businesses in the Great Bend area. Haley provides website design, press releases, brochures, and photography.

“I recognized a gap in our market for cost-effective marketing solutions,” she said. “It is immensely rewarding to contribute to the growth and success of our local businesses.”

Haley and her husband, Cody, have two children, Peyton who is four and Isaac who just turned two. Cody is a fire captain and paramedic with the Great Bend Fire Department.

Community Involvement:

Haley Ruble

Age 29 Owner, Freestyle Marketing

Haley has served on the Barton County Young Professionals as both the President, and chair of the public relations committee. She sits on the board for Kiwanis as the public relations lead. She volunteers with the United Way and is a member of 100+ People Who Care.

“Community involvement holds a special place in my heart, and launching my own business has enabled me to make an even more profound impact and meaningful contribution than ever before.”

UNDER FORTY

2024 The 2024 20 Under Forty recognition will be in October of 2024.

Please submit nominations by August 13, 2024 to Judy Duryee at the Great Bend Tribune. jduryee@gbtribune.com 20 Under 40 | 15

Professional Career:

Cody graduated from Great Bend High School in 2005. He signed a letter of intent to play football at Garden City Community College, but before he left for school Cody lost his grandpa to a stroke, and that changed his plans although, for the better. The summer of ‘05 Cody was working as summer help for USD 428 and was later offered a full time job as the interoffice mail man. Cody worked for the school district for a year and half before he left Great Bend to move to Hays to work for the City of Hays. During that time, Cody lost his late mother Dorthy to a heart attack. He knew at that point it was time to move back home to be closer to his family. In the fall of 2007, he was offered a job back with the school in Grounds and Transportation, working that role for 10 years. In 2017 he became the Director of Grounds/Transportation. Cody and his wife Kami have two children Carter (12) and Emma (10). “We love to call Great Bend home! ‘Great People, Great Places, GREAT BEND’ ”

Community Involvement:

Cody Schmidt

Age: 37 Director of Grounds/Transportation, USD 428 City of Great Bend Mayor

WE ARE PROUD TO BE GROWING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS.

I have been blessed with great support from my family and friends! I am currently serving as Mayor of this wonderful community for the last 4 years! I serve on the board for Great Bend Alive and Barton County Childcare. In my little bit of spare time I coach youth baseball. I love to give back to the community that has given me so much to be thankful for! As a father I want to show my kids what hard work and dedication can get you in life.

*

WE NEVER FORGET IT’S YOUR MONEY. equitybank.com/strength

Cody Schmidt

USD 428, Director of Transportation & Grounds

Visit Us: 1321 Main St (620) 793-5900

725 McKinley St (620) 793-4275

MEMBER FDIC

16 | 20 Under 40

Professional Career:

Cole Schwarz, a proud graduate of Morningside University in 2014, has been making significant strides in the world of finance since the beginning of his career. Immediately after graduating, he embarked on a journey in the financial industry, becoming a registered investment advisor and licensed broker in August of the same year. Cole's dedication to professional growth and excellence led him to earn the prestigious Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation from the Certified Financial Planning Board, showcasing his commitment to providing top-notch financial advice and planning services.

Currently serving as a partner at Anderson Schwarz Financial, located in Great Bend, Kansas, Cole continues to excel in helping his clients navigate the complexities of financial planning and investment management. Beyond his professional achievements, Cole finds joy in his personal life. He is happily married to the former Kylee Fall, and together, they are the proud owners of two miniature Australian Shepherds, adding a touch of furry companionship to their busy lives.

Cole Schwarz’s journey from Morningside University graduate to accomplished financial advisor and partner at Anderson Schwarz Financial is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence and his passion for helping others achieve their financial goals.

Cole Schwarz

Age 31 Strategic Marketing Manager, Anderson Schwarz Financial

Community Involvement:

Cole is a past member of the BCYP steering committee, served as a Chamber Ambassador from 2017-2019, and currently sits on the Clara Barton Foundation Board and the Board of Trustees for Barton Community College.

Professional Career:

I graduated from Great Bend High School and attended The George Washington University where I obtained my undergraduate degree. I later earned my Master of Public Administration degree through Wichita State University. I began my career with the Kansas Judicial Branch in January 2006. I have been with the 20th Judicial District serving as a Court Services Officer, Chief Court Services Officer, and now as District Court Administrator. As District Court Administrator, I oversee the nonjudicial functions of the 5 District Courts located within the 20th Judicial District. I have enjoyed working with the court system over the years, and plan to continue in the future. The court system touches many people in the community in one way or another, and being part of making sure that it is functioning at it’s best, is very important to the people in this community and myself.

Community Involvement:

I have served on several community boards over the course of my career, including the Barton County Youth Care, Child Abuse Prevention Education and Barton Community College Criminal Justice Advisory boards. Now, in my current position with the Court, I serve on a number of boards at the state level that help provide access to justice for those within our community. I was born and raised in Great Bend with my 4 siblings, and now my husband Jason and I raise our daughter, Sadie, in Great Bend. My parents and two of my siblings still reside in Great Bend. Also, my husband’s parents live here. Being able to raise my daughter with her grandparents and cousins so close has been a true blessing.

Lundy Settle

Age: 39 District Court Administrator, Barton County

20 Under 40 | 17

Professional Career:

Jake Thompson moved to Great Bend in June 2018. He attended Iowa Western Community College and Western Kentucky University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in biology. He experienced great success as a pitcher for both Iowa Western and Western Kentucky baseball teams, including a Division I Junior College World Series Championship in 2012. Additionally, he holds the record for most career wins (19) and shutouts (4) at Iowa Western Community College. After earning his bachelor’s degree, Jake then went to the University of Kansas School of Health Professions, earning his Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2018.

Jake began his career in Great Bend as a staff physical therapist and was most recently promoted to Regional Manager of Rehabilitation Services at The University of Kansas Health System in Great Bend in spring 2022. Jake leads and supports a team of 18 employees, in addition to assisting patients in achieving their functional goals.

Community Involvement:

Jake Thompson

Age: 31 Regional Manager of Rehabilitation Services, The University of Kansas Health System

“I’m proud to give back to our community. Reflecting on my days as a student-athlete, I recognize the importance of the guidance I received. Since living in Great Bend, I’ve assisted with coaching Little League, provided professional observation for high school and college students, as well as presented to high school students on careers in rehabilitation services. Students face many decisions.

I hope that by sharing my experiences, students are able to make an informed decision on their career path.”

Professional Career:

After graduating from Fort Hays State University, my husband and I relocated to Great Bend in 2017. Over the span of five years, I had the privilege of serving as a Communication Instructor and Upward Bound Academic Advisor at Barton Community College. During this time, I had the opportunity to establish and lead the new Digital Communications and Content Strategy program. I’m deeply humbled and honored to know that my passion and energy had a positive impact on many of my students.

In June 2023, I transitioned to a new role within the marketing team at The University of Kansas Health System. In my role, I have the opportunity to connect local community members to the quality care they may need as well as to coordinate efforts to engage and support our community. When I’m not at work, my greatest joy comes from spending time with my husband and our lovely one-year-old baby boy. We also cherish our adventures of traveling and exploring National Parks together.

Community Involvement:

In addition to my full-time work, I have the privilege of collaborating with local businesses and nonprofit groups on their creative projects.

Some of the projects I’ve had the honor of contributing to include those with Kansas Earth and Sky Candle Co., Dry Lake Brewery, Golden Belt Bicycle Company, Barton Arts Movement, and The Center for Counseling and Consultation.

I’m deeply passionate about promoting mental health awareness.

I’ve had the privilege of working alongside The Center on their #ZeroReasonsWhy campaign, serving as their local videographer. I also serve as a board member for United Way of Central Kansas. This was the first group I volunteered with when I moved to Great Bend, and it has been incredibly rewarding. I’m grateful for the chance to contribute to such a meaningful cause.

18 | 20 Under 40

Yuchen Wang Boswell

Age: 32 Marketing, The University of Kansas Health System

Professional Career:

Megan was born and raised in Great Bend. She graduated from Great Bend High School in 2002, then attended BCC, getting her associates in Business Marketing while working in management with The Buckle and then owning a Salon. With her love of sales, she thought she would try her hand in real estate. In 2018, she starting working in real estate with Coldwell Banker Sell Real Estate. Since then she has received awards such as Rookie of the Year, Realtor of the Year, International Presidents Circle, and her latest award - the International Presidents Elite Award that is given to the top 1% of agents in Coldwell Banker worldwide. Megan has also held a position with the Board of Directors on Great Plains Association of Realtors, is part of NAR (National Association of Realtors) and KAR (Kansas Association of Realtors).

Community Involvement:

Megan Wells

Age: 39 Realtor Coldwell Banker Sell Real Estate

I am proud to say I am from Great Bend and blessed to have a husband that supports me and my career as well as having parents that have instilled hard work in me. Together, my husband and I have been lucky to raise our 3 children in Great Bend staying close to family. I actively participate in Panther sporting events, community events and various athletic events involving my children.

My commitment to the community further extends to roles in my church, PTO, PEO Chapter DU, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, and the CASA Auction Board. I have also served as a proactive Great Bend Chamber Ambassador.

We would like to congratulate all who were selected to be recognized in this year’s 20 Under 40, especially Megan Wells from Coldwell Banker.

4000 10th St. Great Bend, KS 620-792-2566 • www.coldwellbankersell.com 20 Under 40 | 19

We are so very proud to recognize our young people!

Supporting & Believing in Tomorrow’s Leaders.