Meet Jeanine McKenna: Building Opportunity in Rooks County

Rooks County is entering a new chapter with the addition of Jeanine McKenna as Director of Economic Development. 

Jeanine brings experience from a range of communities, but her story starts in a place that looks a lot like Rooks County. She grew up in a small town where people knew each other, stayed connected, and looked out for one another. It was the kind of environment where accountability mattered, and community wasn't something you had to search for; it was just there. 

That same sense of connection followed her through college at Fort Hays State University and into her early career. Over the years, she and her husband lived in several different places, including Lyons, Kansas, Minnesota, and Emporia. Each place offered something different, but one thing stayed consistent: they were always drawn back to rural life. 

Even while living near a larger town, they chose to stay outside of it, trading traffic and noise for space and quiet. For Jeanine, that way of living wasn't something to give up- it was something to come back to. 

"My mother grew up in this region, and we always talked about coming back," Jeanine said. "When the opportunity came, we knew it was the right decision."

That opportunity brought them to Rooks County. 

For Jeanine, the appeal of Rooks County comes down to quality of life. It's being closer to family, having time to enjoy the outdoors, and stepping away from the constant pace that often comes with larger communities. It's the kind of place where you can slow down without feeling like you're missing out. 

She also sees something else here- opportunity. 

"The opportunities here are truly endless. Whether that's starting a business, continuing one, or finding your place in the community, there's room to build something."

Rooks County offers a strong support system for local businesses, along with spaces and resources for people who want to start something of their own. Combined with a lower cost of living and access to outdoor recreation like Webster State Park, it creates an environment where people can build both a career and a life. 

Jeanine also wants to challenge a common misconception about small towns- that there's nothing to do. 

"That couldn't be further from the truth," she said. "There's always something happening. You just have to get involved."

While larger cities may offer more options on paper, Jeanine points out that everyday life in a rural community offers something just as valuable- space, quiet, and a level of connection that's hard to find elsewhere. 

For those considering a move, her advice is simple: 

"Come spend time here. Get involved, meet people, and experience it for yourself. I think you'll find that we have what you need- and more."

When asked what kind of life someone can build in Rooks County, her answer was just as straightforward:

"Any kind of life they want!"

And if she had to describe Rooks County in one word>

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