Featured Tigers is a monthly series wherein the spotlight shines on a few students, alumni, faculty and staff from our Crete, Lincoln and Omaha campus locations. These individuals stand out in the best way — as talented and driven leaders.
View all Featured Tigers here.
What is your name and graduation year?
Demetria Ballard - Spring 2024
What was your major or degree program?
Master of Education in School Counseling
Tell us a little about what you've done since graduating. What is your current role? Where are you working?
I've been a middle school counselor for the last three years in OPS. I love my job and I'm planning on hanging for a while!
How do you feel Ë®¹ûÅÉ prepared you for your career?
Yes, everything that I've learned while in the school counseling program at Ë®¹ûÅÉ helped to prepare me for the role that I'm in today.
What do you consider the best part of your Ë®¹ûÅÉ experience?
The best part of my Ë®¹ûÅÉ experience has been the relationships that have been cultivated. I now have a professional support system that helps me to be a better school counselor.
What is something you're proud of accomplishing or achieving while at Ë®¹ûÅÉ? What are you proud of accomplishing or achieving in your career?
Since I've been at Ë®¹ûÅÉ, I've written two children's books. I'm proud that I now hold two Master's degrees that I can use in the field of education.
Who has been/is a major influence or role model for you from Ë®¹ûÅÉ? How have they helped you?
Dr. Tami Wegener has been a major influence and role model from Ë®¹ûÅÉ. She pushes me to step out of my comfort zone, and has helped me to stop minimizing my talents and potential.
What advice would you give to current students?
Take care of yourself. You can't run on empty.
What's something you like about yourself that other people may not know?
I'm a first generation college graduate who now holds two Master's degrees and I'm not finished.
