In this article, we have the distinct privilege of highlighting women who are making a significant impact in Manhattan and beyond. Through their respective career paths, each woman is driving meaningful change and helping others. We are grateful to share a small slice of their journeys and achievements.
Dr. Vaishali Sharda
Assistant Professor, Kansas State University - Biological and Agricultural Engineering
In March, Dr. Vaishali Sharda received a $500,000 National Science Foundation award for her research on water sustainability. Through advanced data analytics and computer simulations, her research seeks to safeguard the sustainability of Kansas's water resources in crop production.
Vaishaili grew up on a research farm in India. After receiving her Masters of Technology from Punjab Agricultural University, she and her husband, K-State Professor Dr. Ajay Sharda, moved to the United States to pursue PhDs at Auburn University, bringing their 15-month-old daughter along for the journey. “This country really is the land of opportunity. You are in the best place to make what you want of your life,” reflects Vaishali.
After receiving her PhD in Biosystems Engineering, she completed postdoctoral research before joining K-State in 2018.
In addition to leading a research team, writing grant proposals, and teaching courses, Vaishali also advises undergraduate students. Vaishali has powerful advice for young people who want to pursue STEM careers: “Don’t hold back. You might have so many more opportunities than people who came before you. Believe in yourself and pursue what you want to do.”
Outside of work, she is a passionate foodie, leading an Indian cooking course at the UFM and writing a food blog with delicious, wholesome recipes: kitchendocs.com.
Lori Bishop
Executive Director, Flint Hills Volunteer Center
Just a day prior to our meeting, Lori Bishop was at the Kansas House of Representatives with a group of volunteers, where the Flint Hills Volunteer Center’s AmeriCorps Seniors program was recognized for 50 years of service. For over thirty years, Lori has served the Manhattan community, driven by the mission of connecting volunteers to the needs of local non-profit organizations. “By volunteering and being hands on, we understand the needs of the community,” shares Lori.
In 2023, through the work of over 600 volunteers serving 50 nonprofits, nearly $1 million was reinvested back into the community. In addition to connecting volunteers to local organizations, Flint Hills Volunteer Center The organization has several signatures to meet unmet community needs, including Neighbor2Neighbor, Medical Transportation, and Connecting Students to Communities. Through the Suicide Awareness (P.A.C.T.) initiative, Lori hosts a podcast featuring stories and professional perspectives breaking the stigma associated with suicide.
Since childhood, Lori has felt a call to help others. She says, “Giving back was ingrained in my family. Back then, we didn’t call it volunteering; we just called it helping.”
Casey Ebert, Owner & Massage Therapist
Jasmin Thompson, Co-Owner & Esthetician
MasonWells Day Spa
MasonWells is the first of its kind luxury spa in Manhattan. The spa’s name has special significance to its owners, Casey Ebert and Jasmin Thompson. Mason is the name of Jasmin’s son; Wells is the middle name of Casey’s son. Both boys are currently in first grade and served as part of the inspiration for their entrepreneur moms to have more flexibility in their daily schedules.
In 2023, Casey Ebert received the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award from the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, but she spent 15 years honing the skills and vision necessary to create MasonWells. After earning her business degree from Washburn University, she developed her management experience at Beauty Brands, before discovering her gift as a massage therapist.
A graduate of Bellus Academy, Jasmin has specialized in esthetics for the past decade, offering dermaplaning, Hydrafacial, sugar waxing, and more. She is devoted to using her expertise to make people feel confident in their own skin.
This month, the spa is celebrating its one year anniversary, and it has been embraced by the Manhattan community. “I love that I have a community in Manhattan, where the people and businesses support and care about each other,” says Jasmin.
Kathy Stitt
Principal, Amanda Arnold Elementary School
For the past 38 years, Kathy Stitt has served the Manhattan community as an educator. In 2007, she oversaw the reopening of Bluemont Elementary in her first year as a principal, a monumental undertaking in which she hired a new set of staff. Since 2018, she has served as the principal of Amanda Arnold Elementary School, a special honor given that her three children attended the school.
Transitioning to the role of principal has allowed Kathy to extend her impact beyond a single classroom to an entire school. In addition to serving as a role model for her teachers, Kathy is passionate about mentoring other principals.
Kathy's aspiration to pursue a career in education grew from her desire to serve others. “In school, I always tried to be a friend to the underdog, to those who were struggling,” she says.
As an educator, she has sought to bring positive energy to her classrooms, while holding her students to high standards. “I am really passionate about helping students reach their goals and know the sky's the limit. Education is their ticket.”
Summer Ott Dierks
Dierks Law Firm
For 22 years now, attorney Summer Ott Dierks has represented Manhattan in many different capacities. Originally from Coffeyville, Kansas, she graduated from Kansas State University in 2005 with a degree in agricultural communications and journalism. Starting her career at the K-State foundation for the College of Agriculture, she later worked as a convention salesperson for the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. Following in her father's footsteps, she pursued law school, graduating from Washburn University in December 2012. Passing the Bar, she began as an associate attorney at Seaton Law Offices, LLP, eventually becoming a partner at Seaton, Seaton and Dierks. In 2020, she founded Dierks Law Firm, practicing civil matters such as contract law, real estate planning, child custody mediation, and adoptions. Emphasizing quality over quantity, her firm provides individualized attention, ensuring comprehensive understanding and effective representation. Despite handling diverse cases, including personal injury and family law, they prioritize excellence, upholding integrity, and professionalism. Through dedication to top-notch legal services, Dierks Law Firm builds trust and satisfaction within the community, reflecting Summer's commitment to Manhattan.
Trish Beggs, Casie Hartwich, Brooke Norman-Tapp
Celebrating a decade in 2024, Rockhill Real Estate Group shines as a beacon of excellence in Manhattan's real estate scene. Led by seasoned female owners Trish Beggs, Casie Hartwich, and Brooke Norman-Tapp along with a team of 13 agents, Rockhill is deeply embedded in the community, offering unparalleled insights into the local market. With a steadfast commitment to integrity, expertise, and personalized service, Rockhill is renowned as a reliable partner for all things real estate!
The agency prioritizes client-centricity, ensuring open communication and tailored solutions for every individual. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, Rockhill provides guidance and support at every step of the journey. Plus, their robust social media presence and visible marketing strategies guarantee broad exposure and effective client communication.
Beyond its professional endeavors, Rockhill is dedicated to community enrichment, actively participating in local initiatives and philanthropic endeavors. Overall, Rockhill Real Estate Group transcends traditional brokerage roles, serving as a trusted ally, a community cornerstone, and a symbol of excellence in Manhattan's real estate landscape.
Linda Graham
Manhattan Carpet One Floor & Home
One of Manhattan's most influential women is Linda Graham, the proprietor of Carpet One of Manhattan. Her father, the late Roger Schultz, was the founder of Schultz Construction, so Linda's roots in the home services industry run deep. Her journey commenced at Shirley's Rug Shop, eventually leading her to Crown Decorating, a prominent flooring and paint emporium in 1998. In 2009, Crown Decorating evolved into Manhattan Carpet One Floor & Home, solidifying Linda's legacy 26 years later.
Under Linda's stewardship, Manhattan Carpet One transcends its role as a mere flooring provider, becoming a cornerstone of comfort and style for countless households. Through a combination of premium products and expert guidance, they transform spaces into sanctuaries of warmth and elegance. Linda's leadership is seen throughout Manhattan, enriching lives one step at a time.
Offering an array of flooring options including hardwood, luxury vinyl, carpet, laminate, tile, and other variants, they are dedicated to enhancing the beauty of Manhattan, one home at a time.
