Amy’s rural roots run deep as the fifth generation raised on a family farm west of Verdigre that included cow-calf, dryland crop and hay operations.

She received her Bachelor’s degree in English Writing from Wayne State College, then served as associate editor for publications including Nebraskaland Magazine, and the South Dakota State Historical Society Press, as well as a freelance writer, editor and photographer.

Her career experience also includes a variety of work in land management, outdoor education and natural resource protection. Amy managed Smith Falls State Park near Valentine and the Hutton Niobrara Ranch near Bassett prior to taking on the role as Outreach Coordinator for the Sandhills Task Force in 2026.

Amy has spent her life exploring the Niobrara River valley and values time spent there with family and friends. Her interests include history, art, music and traveling – especially by foot, horseback, canoe or kayak. She is passionate about the protection and promotion of the Nebraska Sandhills and preserving the stories of the people and places within.

She and her husband, Kevin, and their dogs and horses live west of Valentine.