Leadership Greater Topeka | Keegan McElroy
Photo by BRADEN DIMICK
What is the most important part of your work?
I am a domestic attorney, so I handle family law issues like divorce, child custody and parenting disputes. Taking care of my client is the most important part of what I do. There is nothing easy about deciding to end a marriage or relationship. There is nothing easy about learning to co-parent or dealing with financial struggles following a breakup. Making sure that my client has the resources to succeed and navigate their new normal is of the upmost importance to me. On that same note, domestic issues are emotional. I try to validate the feelings my clients have while also trying to keep matters even-keeled.
What is non-negotiable for you?
I will not let anyone take my peace. I want to invest my time in things that motivate, inspire and challenge me and I will not stay in places or environments that do not appreciate that. If a situation is not for me and my well-being, then it is not an option for me. At the end of the day, it is me, myself, and I, and I will not allow myself to be a part of something that does not one hundred percent reflect who I am as a person and what I want to inspire.
What characteristic do you most admire in others and why?
I love when others can laugh at themselves. It shows a confidence and self-awareness that is so refreshing. Life is too tough to be so serious all the time. Laugh at the silly mistakes and move on to bigger and better things.
What characteristics do you value most in your coworkers?
Candor and humor. I love that I can go to any one in my office and get an honest response or reaction. We all rely on each other's input and truly value each other's opinions and thoughts. It makes for a very team-centric environment. We also have fun. Being an attorney is not always glamorous, and so being able to laugh with each other and have fun is vital. I really love the people I work with. I would not be who I am or where I am today without them.
What do you love most about your work?
Every day is something new and different. I never know what my day is going to bring -- good or bad. I often have to think quick on my toes and be creative in problem solving. In addition, I get to learn something new each day. I always joked with my parents that I would be a career student, and in some ways my work does allow me to do that. It is fun and exciting, while also being challenging. I always feel that I have room for improvement and growth with what I do. It is very rewarding.
What is one word you would use to describe yourself?
Fiery. My name, Keegan, is an Irish name meaning "descendant of the fiery one”. and it fits. I think about it in different ways. First, I'm definitely a little sassy and spunky. But I also like to think of fiery as a bright light. I understand I can't fix all the world's problems, but I can make my corner of the universe a little brighter, and I really try to live by that. I want to make people feel seen and validated. I want to light a spark in others to do the same.
What do you do for fun or to recharge?
I love to get outside and move my body. I love to take my dog on hikes and go explore new areas. I love to read. I'm a big fan of historical fiction. I also really, really love a good nap.
What’s the last series you binge-watched?
Wednesday on Netflix! And I LOVED it.
What is your favorite app and why?
This is so funny. It is actually the Trulia app. I just love looking at houses!
What is your most used emoji?
The crying laughing emoji. I really think I am so funny -- I end almost all my messages with it.
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