Meet a Loper Graduate: Emma Bond stepped out of her comfort zone and into leadership roles

What advice does Emma Bond have for current and future Lopers?

Two words: Get involved!

“UNK offers so many wonderful organizations and activities to participate in. While it may feel scary at first, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone,” she says. “That is exactly what I did, and as a result, I have made amazing friends and memories that will last a lifetime.”

A Kearney native, Bond definitely made the most of her time at UNK.

She co-founded the UNK Climbing Club with her friends, helped revive the Lopers for Sustainability organization and served as president of Loper Programming and Activities Council, the student-run group that plans some of the most popular events on campus. Bond was also part of the UNK Honors Program, Student Government, Loper Leaders, Undergraduate Research Fellows and Mortar Board and Beta Gamma Sigma honor societies.

On top of all that, she completed an internship with CSS Farms in summer 2022 and continues to work for the agricultural business, which produces potatoes and other crops at locations across the country. Currently serving as marketing administrator, her responsibilities include graphic design, website management and event planning. She also creates social media content, videos, podcasts and newsletters for the company.

“I chose my career path in marketing because it allows me to help people and businesses communicate their value to others in meaningful ways,” Bond says. “I am grateful for a profession that lets me combine creativity with strategy, where no two days are ever the same and new challenges continually inspire growth. I feel fortunate to have found a career that not only allows me to make an impact but also encourages constant learning, collaboration and connection with others.”

Among her many honors, Bond was voted UNK homecoming queen in 2023 and she received the Leadership Legacy and Emerging Young Professional awards during last month’s Applauding Excellence ceremony.

She graduates summa cum laude on Friday with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a marketing emphasis and a minor in media production.

What does this moment mean to you?
Graduation is a bittersweet moment for me. I have been fortunate to find a wonderful and supportive community at UNK and to have had the opportunity to help make a positive impact on campus. While this chapter of my life is coming to a close, I am confident that the friendships and memories I have made will last, and the skills I have gained will continue to guide me throughout my life.

How did UNK help prepare you for your career?
UNK helped prepare me for my career by providing opportunities to connect with professionals in my field and offering a wide range of learning experiences to take advantage of.

Who was the most influential person during your undergraduate career?
The most influential people during my undergraduate career have been my parents, Chris and Michelle. They have always supported me in every way possible, and knowing that they are always there for me has been an incredible blessing. Their constant encouragement and guidance have played a huge role in helping me reach this point in my life.

What was your favorite class?
My favorite class at UNK has been JMC 330, Media Design. This course allowed me to think creatively while helping me develop and strengthen my graphic design skills. It challenged me in the best ways and gave me tools I will carry with me into my career.

What’s your favorite thing about UNK?
My favorite thing about UNK is the people! Whether you need support or have a question, there is always someone willing to lend a hand. This sense of community and willingness to help is what truly makes UNK stand out to me.