Natural born leader Slater Heglin recently returned to his roots after a successful and fulfilling educational career at Fort Hays State University (FHSU). Throughout his tenure as a Tiger, Heglin remained dedicated to his supportive hometown, coming back this summer as a friendly face at Grant County Bank (GCB).
From a young age, Heglin recalled feeling “blessed“ to experience life in Ulysses.
“Growing up in Grant County allowed me to be involved in several organizations and community events,” said Heglin. “I have always enjoyed being involved in my community, and Ulysses has allowed me to volunteer throughout my childhood, middle and high school years, and now post-college.”
Most of Heglin’s family resides in Oklahoma, therefore he has relied greatly on the support of his mom, Shannon Heglin, and the village of people that make U-Town what it is, today.
“My mom has always been my biggest supporter, always doing the things I volunteer her for,” said Heglin. “She supports my endeavors, and loses a lot of sleep helping with the things I sign her up for.”
Long before Heglin made his way to FHSU, he made his customer service debut when he landed a position with Main ARTery after encouragement from his mom.
“Throughout middle school and my freshman year of high school, I volunteered at the Main ARTery twice a week during the summer and after school,” Hegin recalled. “While at the Main ARTery, I learned about what it meant to be of service to each individual customer. I am so grateful for Tracy and Lynn, and the foundation of service they instilled in me while I volunteered at Main ARTery.”
Heglin began working as a teller at Grant County Bank in May of 2016, as he ended his freshman year at UHS.
“I loved working as a teller, as I built so many relationships with our customers,” said Heglin. “The experience was so rewarding and was something I thoroughly enjoyed.”
Once Heglin flew the nest to embark on his new educational journey in Hays, he remained an employee of GCB, providing teller services during school and summer breaks. Heglin acknowledged the privilege of having flexible employment, noting the rarity of such in the workforce. In January 2021, Heglin transitioned to the position of Senior Intern, training and assisting in all departments of GCB.
“I had the opportunity to work in every department, which allowed me to learn about every aspect of the Bank, including customer service, while honing my skills in the areas I enjoyed,” explained Heglin.
During his tenure as an FHSU Tiger, Heglin referred to the experience as the “opportunity of a lifetime”. With the guidance from FHSU alumni Clay and Nancy Scott and Dave Younger, Heglin was provided with the chance to grow and network with influential people.
“The individuals I have met along the way have impacted how I work, what opportunities I pursue, and the perspective I bring to life experiences,” said Heglin. “My undergraduate college experience has fueled my passion for servant leadership while encouraging me to approach projects and tasks with a curious mindset.”
Heglin has an impressive resume filled with organizations he has been a part of, including President of the Society for Human Resource Management, Vice-President of FHSU Foundation Tigers Forever, Honor Society, Collegiate 4-H, Christian Challenge, University Homecoming Committee, Alumni Association Pilot Award Committee, Voss Advanced Leadership Undergraduate Experience (VALUE) program, Washburn Leadership Competition Member, Faculty Navigator Award Committee, Western Kansas Human Resource Management Association Member, Circle K International Member, University Activities Board Member, and Homecoming Royalty Candidate.
“Each of these organizations allowed me to serve in a greater capacity while taking the opportunity to learn and grow from others,” shared Heglin. “I learned about my leadership skills and how to serve those around me better.”
However, Heglin’s success did not come without sacrifice and self-discipline.
“I worked three jobs at a time, which also helped to shape who I am,” he said. “I have always worked for what I want, and college was no different.”
Heglin received scholarship assistance while at FHSU to aid his education as well.
“I am beyond grateful for the opportunities I had while on campus,” said Heglin.
Heglin earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education with a concentration in Talent Development in May 2023.
Prior to graduation, Heglin began making plans for his life after attaining his degree.
“I was blessed with a few different opportunities but chose to return to Grant County Bank for many reasons,” shared Heglin.
Continuing on, Heglin credited GCB for their leadership and hospitality.
“Grant County Bank has been a cornerstone of Grant County for more than 115 years, and I am thankful to have the opportunity to be a part of the Grant County Bank legacy.”
Currently, Heglin serves as Assistant Vice President, Customer Service and Marketing. Additionally, he is transitioning to oversee customer service and the teller line.
“Not only will I serve in that capacity, but I am also overseeing the Bank’s marketing efforts,” explained Heglin. “I look forward to the opportunities we have as a community, personally and professionally.”
Aside from quality employment, Heglin shared his adoration for the people of Ulysses as one of the biggest factors in returning.
“The individuals of Grant County do not compare to anywhere else,” he said. “My roots helped make me the person I am, and I am thankful to return to the place that helped raise me.”
One of Heglin’s greatest joys of living in Grant County is the daily run-in with a familiar face. Focusing on his faith, Heglin looks forward to continuing his involvement at Oasis Church.
“God has worked miracles in my life, which fuels my passion for serving others,” shared Heglin. “God answered prayers and allowed me to stay on this earth, and I don’t take that for granted. I fall short some days, but I strive to serve and love others to the best of my abilities every day. Every person we interact with is battling their own battles, so my goal is to be the Hope and Light of Jesus that I have found in my relationship with Christ. We are all loved by the Creator; we just need to see ourselves as God sees us. My faith in Jesus and my family are who make me, me!”
Looking towards the future, Heglin plans to continue his education at FHSU, working towards a Master of Business Administration with concentrations in Leadership and Marketing.
For the community of Ulysses, Heglin will continue focusing on serving GCB customers, Kansas Society for Human Resource Management State Council, of which he will transition to serve as the College Relations Director as a volunteer this year, and his non-profit Keep Life Jumping 4 Kay. Heglin’s non-profit, named after his late grandmother, is centered on serving cancer warriors in central & southwest Kansas and the Oklahoma Panhandle.
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