At OneMarysville, we know that strong communities are full of people who care. Each week, we feature a resident who has given their time and talents to make Marysville the best community in Kansas.
Find out why we’re “nuts about” JoAnn Shum!
JoAnn has long been one of the people this community can count on. She has served St. Gregory Catholic Church and St. Gregory School in many roles over the years, including school board president, board member, Altar Society past vice president and volunteer. She also gave her time to the Pony Express Barn & Museum board, the USD 364 Media Design & Communications Committee and plenty of community efforts tied to kids, education and local events.
She was active in 4-H for many years as a community leader, an extension unit member and a past president of the extension unit. She has judged local spelling bees and served as a local, state and national judge for the National Catholic Forensics organization, which took her to speech and debate tournaments across the country.
JoAnn founded and directed Marysville Free University, giving people a chance to keep learning and connecting through community education.
She also helped with the start of the Home City ballpark, worked on MHS band fundraising, football dinners, wrestling fundraisers and swimming lessons at the city pool.
When OneMarysville or the Marshall County Arts Cooperative needs help, JoAnn is one of those people who steps in, whether that means volunteering at July 4 events, helping with concerts at Alcove Spring Historic Park or serving as a chaperone for visiting artists.
Let’s hear from JoAnn about her love for Marysville and why she gives back to our community:
Tell us about one of your favorite ways to volunteer.
The Marshall County Arts Cooperative is one of my favorite projects. They bring so many high-quality entertainers and artists of all types to Marysville. I’ve helped host many of the artists and it’s been such a fun experience. I look forward to the days when Wayne calls and says, “Can you be a host for an artist that’s coming in?” One of the highlights was when The Beach Boys were here and I helped host them – that was a lot of fun!
What would you tell someone who wants to get more involved as a volunteer?
The easiest way is to come to the OneMarysville office. They’re well-connected and can lead you in the right direction.
How long have you lived in Marysville? What is your favorite thing about living here?
I’ve lived here all my life, except for the four years I attended K-State University. Marysville is a very nice, clean, friendly town. And I like the fact that everybody knows everybody; there are no strangers, you walk down the street and everybody says “hi!” People are interested in you, as you are in them, and it’s fun to see how the kids grow up over the years.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about Marysville?
We have good schools, beautiful parks, an outstanding library – Marysville has it all, as far as I am concerned. And there are good career opportunities here, plus we have top-of-the line technology through Blue Valley. Plus, there is so much going on in town. Every weekend, we have some kind of event or entertainment – there’s never a shortage of things to do. It’s an overall great place to live.
Which of Marysville’s Black Squirrels on Parade is your favorite?
Copper, located at 18th & Center in front of United Bank & Trust. I love his tail covered in pennies (especially now that they are no longer in production)!
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please fill out our volunteer form and we will match you with a need in our community!
