On this episode of Always a Raven, host Janelle Menz sits down with Renee Nugent, a 1992 Benedictine College graduate and Deputy Commissioner of Learning Services for the Kansas State Department of Education. From classroom teacher and counselor to principal, superintendent, and state-level leader, Renee’s career has been guided by one constant: keeping students at the center of every decision.
Renee reflects on how her Benedictine professors helped shape not only the educator she became, but the way she sees people. They taught her to look beyond behavior, circumstances, and first impressions to recognize the person behind them—a perspective that has guided her throughout her career. Today, she continues to champion students, support educators, and help shape an education system focused on preparing young people for more than just a diploma.
Now back in Atchison after a career that took her across several states and every level of education, Renee shares what she’s learned about servant leadership, the power of community, and the importance of simply showing up for others. Her story is a reminder that Benedictine’s impact doesn’t end at graduation. It stays with you, shaping how you lead, serve, and see the world.
As Renee puts it, “Benedictine will never leave you.”
