Welcome to the fifth PebbleCreek Voices interview, where we bring you personal stories from our unique neighbors. Our goal is to spark meaningful conversations within our community by getting to know the amazing people who make PebbleCreek special.
Mary Kay Utecht, a valued member of our community, joins us to share her personal journey from a small city in Idaho to a fulfilling teaching and business career from Washington State to Arizona.
Thanks to her tireless efforts, Mary Kay led a groundbreaking Title IX project in middle and high schools, breathing real life into girls' sports in Pasco, WA, and opening doors for countless young athletes.
After teaching for a couple of years in Spokane, Mary Kay and her husband embarked on a life-changing adventure, living on the Colville Indian Reservation. There, they not only helped Native Americans increase their self-sufficiency but also formed lasting friendships and gained invaluable insights into a rich culture. She still treasures her experience living, learning, and sharing as a minority in a community.
Mary Kay taught in Washington's Tri-Cities area until she engaged with Gonzaga University to help create a program promoting English as a Second Language. Her expected 90-day commitment turned into a 9-year career, which eventually led her to PebbleCreek.
During the past 14 years in PebbleCreek, Mary Kay has become a friendly example of community spirit, continuously finding new ways to serve others and make a difference in people's lives.
As a member of the PebbleCreek Rotary Club, she met Mark Yslas, Agua Fria High School District (AFHSD) superintendent. Mark was seeking help to add an intergenerational contribution to his schools. Together with AFHSD's Melinda Marcheese and other dedicated individuals, Mary Kay helped create the new Senior to Senior program, bridging generations and fostering meaningful connections between our community seniors and local high school students.
We invite you to listen to Mary Kay's story and discover some of the joy of intergenerational friendships. Don't forget to subscribe to PebbleCreek Voices to stay connected with more uplifting stories from our vibrant community!
Mary Kay Utecht, A Passion for Students Fueled by Unlimited Curiosity.