Meet Leea Smarsh, a survivor who learned to thrive at FHSU

Leea Smarsh, a soon-to-be Fort Hays State University graduate, may seem like an ordinary student, juggling classes and a part-time job while navigating the uncertainties of life after graduation. Yet her story is a testament to the extraordinary power of resilience, determination and a deep passion to make a difference, serving as an inspiration to all.

Leea’s story is about more than just her academic success. She survived cancer at age 15 and faced a rare and aggressive form of thyroid cancer with courage and grace. After surgeries and radiation treatments, she was declared cancer-free in February 2020, but faced the challenges of a global pandemic a month later. Despite the obstacles, Leea persevered and completed her senior year of high school online.

Originally from Wichita, Leea’s decision to attend FHSU was motivated by financial reasons.

“To be completely honest, I didn’t plan on moving to a small town for college,” Leea said. “Once I stepped foot on FHSU’s campus, I fell in love with the campus and the professors I met during my visit.” She wasn’t sure what major she wanted to major in, but the FHSU admissions team reassured her that it was okay not to know her major right away. “It allowed me to see FHSU in a new light, which ultimately convinced me to choose FHSU—and I’m so grateful that I did,” Leea said.

Leea’s academic journey began with an exploratory major. Her advisor guided her through different majors and career paths through major and personality inventories, and to her surprise, Leadership Studies emerged as the best fit. Initially unfamiliar with the concept, she took a leap of faith and chose this major, a decision she is extremely grateful to have made.

“I truly feel like I have found my calling. As a leadership specialist, you are taught different ways to interact with groups and teams, and you are taught how to interact effectively with people from different cultures, backgrounds, and other factors than your own,” Leea said. “I am very excited to put the skills I have learned through the leadership program into practice!”

As a student in the Department of Social Work, Leea was not only a valuable member of the administrative team, but she also played a leading role in planning the department’s flagship event, the 49th annual National Institute on Rural Social Work and Human Services. This year’s conference, “On the Path to Thriving Rural Communities,” highlighted the importance of diversity in rural areas and provided attendees with critical professional development opportunities and resources.

Leea’s contributions earned her praise from her mentors and colleagues. Her efforts to carefully plan this prestigious event are a testament to her leadership, organizational skills, and hard work. From coordinating hotel reservations to managing communications with vendors and presenters to overseeing the event schedule, her work was praised by the presenters who were eager to meet Leea.

In fact, I first heard about Leea through a glowing letter from a social worker who has been attending the conference for years. Impressed by her dedication, he wrote a two-page letter, which prompted me to dig deeper into her story.

For Leea, the conference is the culmination of her academic journey, symbolizing a chance to make a meaningful impact on the social work and human services professional communities. She has collaborated tirelessly with faculty and stakeholders while juggling a busy summer job with online courses and a part-time job. Leea’s future could include work in human resources or event planning.

Grateful for the support and mentorship of FHSU’s Faculty of Social Work, Leea acknowledges their significant role in shaping her journey, building her confidence, and instilling in her the drive to make a global impact. As she prepares to embark on a new chapter after graduation, Leea is well-equipped with the skills and experiences needed for a bright and impactful future.

But Leea’s story is about more than just her academic success. She survived cancer at age 15 and bravely and gracefully faced a rare and aggressive form of thyroid cancer. After surgeries and radiation treatments, she was declared cancer-free in February 2020, only to be faced with the challenges of a global pandemic a month later. Despite the obstacles, Leea persevered and completed her senior year of high school online.

Her battle with cancer has reinforced her zest for life and her relentless pursuit of her passions. In her free time, Leea enjoys spending time with friends and family and has recently taken up pickleball.

Leea’s journey embodies resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of her passions. She embodies the spirit of Fort Hays State University and is a shining example of what can be accomplished through hard work and determination. Her story is one of survival, thriving, overcoming obstacles, and achieving greatness. Leea Smarsh is an inspiration and a testament to what dedication and hard work can accomplish.