Recent Ball State graduate Alison Quirk is making a name for herself in the Muncie community. After receiving a bachelor's degree in 1998 and then attending graduate school, twenty-nine-year-old Quirk is the new city commissioner of Muncie.
She said she feels being fresh out of college has its advantages.
"We all bring different things to the table, " Quirk said. "While it is a good thing to have a strong background, it is also good to be fresh."
Quirk said her love for the city began when she branched out and began to get involved with the community during her college years. She volunteered at local groups like " A Better Way" and " Prevent Child Abuse," and is now on the board of directors of the Muncie division of "Big Brothers Big Sisters." Quirk said she believes her drive and determination to help others lead her into this path.
"I always had a passion for this, " Quirk said. "It is just the course my life was meant to take."
Quirk said her dream is that other students at Ball State will take a similar course.
Many Ball State students graduate and move out of the city or even the state. Quirk said she encourages graduates to stay in muncie. One program she hopes to promote is internship programs for students.
"If you get people connected, maybe they will want to stay, " Quirk said. "I would love to encourage people to stay here by creating a better environment."
Her spot in the city council opened up the gate of opportunity. She is now apart of other committees throughout the city. She is currently helping put onthe "DiverCity" festival. She also works with Muncie Community Schools to host "Muncie Coming Together." With a full plate, Quirk said she lives by a quote by Ghandi.
Ghandi said, "We must be the change that we wish to see in the world."
Quirk said she is taking the initiative to be active and to make a change by being involved.
She said she looks forward to starting a new and exciting life with her husband.
"I just love Muncie, " Quirk said, smiling. "I know I will live and work here for the rest of my life."
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
