Dr. Pam Tieszen is the new Superintendent at Lancaster Mennonite Schools and came at a critical time. Her leadership was critical to the successful future of the schools and students. She put the long term welfare of students and families ahead of her own. Now, with the difficult decisions of operating schools through a pandemic, Pam continues to be a resourceful leader.
Who has been your biggest influence?
There have been many people of influence throughout my life, so it is difficult to pick just one, but as a young person, I often looked to my great uncle, John D. Unruh. He was a professor, school leader, mayor and a respected person in the church and community. He worked for the benefit of his community and volunteered in Europe at the end of World War II.
What motivated you to be involved in your community?
When I was in high school and considering a career, it was important to me to work in a field I loved and provided support to others. Teaching and working with students was a fit. Today, in my administrative role, I don’t often get to work directly with students, but the ability to support faculty and staff who do, continues to be life giving for me. Knowing that Lancaster Mennonite staff offer student instruction and care deeply for their students that results in a positive impact in our community and rapidly changing world is meaningful work for me.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Patience! There are many different routes to the end goal. Listening and patience provide understanding and ultimately a better end result.
What’s your idea of self care?
Hiking and being outdoors on a beautiful sunny day.
What message do you have for the future generations of women?
There is so much we can do right where we are planted. You can be a leader in your group, team, office, classroom, literally anywhere. Be who you were created to be right where you are and the rest will come.
Lastly, speed round!
Heels or Flats? Flats
Pancakes or Waffles? Pancakes
Day or Night? Day
Books or Movies? Books
Rain or Sunshine? Sunshine!
