Amanda Abbott | LGT Class of 2025
Compiled by LAUREN JURGENSEN | Photos by BRIAN PETERS
What was your first job as an adult and what did you learn from it?
I was a hostess/waitress at Topeka Steak House. Working there taught me a great deal about perspective and how important the “customer experience” truly is. It also taught me the value of diversity and flexing my communication to various audiences, allowing me to connect and build relationships with people that I may not have been able to otherwise. These skills have served me well throughout my life so far. Being approachable and being able to connect with people is something I value.
What are you doing to make Topeka a stronger community?
The first thing that comes to mind is my work on the Family Service & Guidance Center Foundation Board of Trustees. I am so proud and humbled to have been a small part of the work that was done to support the creation of the new Youth Crisis and Recovery Center that opened its doors at the end of 2023. There is a huge need for these services among Topeka and the surrounding area’s youth.
In your opinion, what does Topeka need the most right now?
More access to mental health resources for children and adults across our community. While the stigma around mental health issues is improving, the need for services has grown exponentially and impacts so many other issues in our community.
If tomorrow was your last day, how would you spend the next 24 hours?
Spending time with my family and friends in almost any capacity. More specifically, the loves of my life: my boys Brady and Corban and my husband Scott.
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