Welcome to our series, #WHYoming, brought to you in partnership by Kaumo Law.
We are highlighting people from around our communities and asking them a few questions. We want to learn a little about them and see why they chose this great state to raise their families, start their businesses, or simply to ask — Why Wyoming?
This week, I had a chance to sit down with Jenissa Meredith. She is the Executive Director for Sweetwater County Joint Travel & Tourism Board. Jenissa is a proud Wyoming woman. She created and developed the “Proud Wyoming Woman” Retreat (PWWR).
“Wyoming is more than a place of residence. It is way of life,” she said.
“I have tremendous pride in Sweetwater County and in the state of Wyoming and I know that many other women feel the same way. I want this retreat to reflect the pride that originated at the time of women’s suffrage and that lives on today. I want it to reflect the ideals and unique lifestyles of a Proud Wyoming Woman.”
Learn more about the Proud Wyoming Woman Retreat here.
This community series is brought to you by:
Jenissa, how did you end up in Rock Springs?
I moved to Rock Springs with my family in 1983, when I was almost 4 years old, from Grand Island, Nebraska. Go Big Red!!
I lived in Scottsdale, AZ for a few years in grade school, then returned to Rock Springs with my family for Junior High and High School. I attended Western Wyoming Community College and then the University of Wyoming (Go Pokes!). After graduation in 2001, I made the choice to come back to Rock Springs to start a family and pursue my career.
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What is something unique about you?
I have an immense commitment to Sweetwater County and work hard to represent it in the best way possible when I travel around the state and the country. I am extremely proud to be a resident of Sweetwater County and to be able to live, work and raise my children here.
Oh also, I have been 5’10” since I was 14 years old, I am sincerely happy 300+ days a year, odd numbers make me anxious and I am terrified of unfriendly looking mannequins! Ha!
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What do you appreciate most about our community?
The people. Wyoming isn’t just a place of residence, it’s a way of life. People take care of each other here and take pride in this state. It is the perfect place to develop into a career, with many opportunities, and the perfect place to raise a family.
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If you could give one brief piece of advice, what would it be?
Be kind and work really hard. I firmly believe that all things can be figured out, forgiven, and forgotten in a way that allows people to treat each other with respect every day. Silence is also golden!
“Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” -Kevin Durant
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Where is your favorite place to hang out in Sweetwater County?
I have so many!! I love being on or near the water with my husband and children. Whether it be walking along the Green River (the views!) or boating on Flaming Gorge, I am in heaven.
I also love being at events with my friends and family in Sweetwater County during the summer months. Our summers here are worth any amount of winter we ever endure – tenfold!
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Would you rather walk, ride a bike, take a horse or drive a car?
I grew up riding horses with my dad and step-mom every summer in Kearney, Nebraska. I was in 4-H and competed in speed events, running barrels and poles, so if I had the choice and the time, I would choose to ride a horse.
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What would you sing at karaoke night?
As an eternal optimist, I would probably sing “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey.
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How would your friends describe you?
A loyal protector, and a cruise director – rolled into one!
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What is your proudest accomplishment?
Being a mother – everyday – hands down. I was blessed to be raised by strong and loving parents, and my role as a mother to my children and step-children is the most important job that I will ever have. You only get one shot at doing it right!
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Who would you want to play you in a movie about your life?
Reese Witherspoon. I love her!
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Why do you continue to live in Wyoming?
I choose to live in Wyoming for many reasons including family, friends, education, opportunities, weather, size, and the freedom to make a life your own.
I also appreciate living close to the mountains and close to Flaming Gorge. I love being able to ski nearby and golf in town, and the outdoor recreational opportunities all around us, for friends and families to enjoy together here, are unmatched!
If you’d like us to interview yourself or someone you know for #WHYoming, please send us suggestions to Lillian@sweetwaternow.com
