As much as we hate saying goodbye to awesome staff members, there is always a bit of excitement as we watch them move to another phase of life. This is certainly true for our dear Shannon, who has been a friendly face at Big Hollow for the last three years.
Although Shannon is quiet, her presence is felt. When she walks in, she immediately starts “taking care of things”. She has a solid confidence and it feels reassuring. Amongst staff, especially on busy stocking mornings, you’ll often here the clamor of, “Ask Shannon”, or “Shannon will take care that”, and she really does. She may be a woman of few words, but she does not go unnoticed, and she will truly be missed.
Shannon grew up in Montclair, NJ and moved to Laramie in 2012 to attend UW. She graduated with a degree in agroecology and horticulture and worked at ACRES Student Farm and Sheila Bird Farms. She was always drawn to plants and loved to garden when she was young. Even though her degree and work seem a perfect path, she began her studies George Mason University’s School of Dance. After spending some time in the dance culture, she decided it wasn’t for her and moved west to try something new. Just like dance, she considers agriculture to be a craft.
Shannon and her two dogs are off to Fort Morgan, CO where her partner has been offered a job. She will look for continued work related to agriculture.
Working at Big Hollow and at the Farmers’ Market has allowed Shannon to feel connected to the community. Shannon got to participate in growing and producing the very produce that she checked out for customers to take home at Big Hollow. This made her feel even more connected to community. She expresses great gratitude for the warm welcome she has received over the years. Working customer service has allowed her to get to know those of you who shop here. It’s not just a store, it’s a community that is felt and appreciated by customers and employees alike.
Shannon, we wish you the best in the next adventure. May there be many new things to test your limits, open spaces to explore, and LOTS of dirt to dig in. Thanks for your steady, strong presence at the store. You will me missed!
