Ethan Reimer, UWHMC Board Member
Question: Where did you grow up and what was your family life like?
Answer: I grew up and lived in Sedgwick, KS until I graduated from Sedgwick High School and went off to college. My older brother and I were fortunate to be brought up by our parents in such a small and close-knit community as well as being blessed that most of our extended family, grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, etc. were also in the area. The importance of family, community, service to others, and building those lifetime connections was taught to us from an early age.
Question: Who have been your strongest influences in life?
Answer: On a personal level, my wife and family as well as one or two really close good friends have had a major influence on my life, values, and outlook.
On a professional level, Sedgwick’s long-time former mayor, Keith DeHaven, was a constant model of service to others and giving back to the community. He helped lead me to consider a career in public service when I was at a crossroads of deciding what I might do in terms of a longer-term career choice.
Question: What led you to your career?
Answer: My first exposure to local government work was through my mom, who served the City of Sedgwick for over 25 years, including becoming their first City Administrator.
After spending some time working various jobs in the private sector, mostly in management and finance, I happened to have a conversation with Mayor DeHaven when I was home for a visit about my long-term plans and he asked if I had ever thought about working in local government.
That conversation and some personal reflection eventually led me to pursue my MPA at Wichita State and I was pleasantly surprised that I found a job in Halstead and was able to be back in Harvey County as I started my own public service career and family.
Question: How would friends and acquaintances describe you?
Answer: Not sure I would want to know . . . probably a bit quiet and reserved in general, maybe a little too prone to sarcasm or too serious for my own good, but always willing to listen and laugh with anyone and always glad to help if I can.
Question: With so many volunteer opportunities in the community, why did you choose to be involved with United Way of Harvey and Marion Counties?
Answer: I believe that United Way is one of the best examples of an organization that is making a difference by building community partnerships. I also enjoy that United Way has several areas that they focus on, taking a more holistic approach to addressing the many issues that could help to improve people’s lives and the overall community.
Question: What’s the one thing you want people to know about UWHMC?
Answer: That beyond their own efforts and initiatives, UWHMC also supports other organizations that make a difference in the lives of people every day.
The United Way 