Et cetera : AmeriCorps NCCC Welcomes New Staff Member

By: Krista Eichhorst

Peggy Somerville is a Vinton, Iowa native and currently resides in Amana. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa, her master’s degree in Social Work from St. Ambrose University, and additional advanced training in creative arts therapies at Kansas State University. Prior to joining the North Central Region Campus she worked for seven years at a psychiatric mental institution for children in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She also teaches theatre classes at Theatre Cedar Rapids for adults with intellectual disabilities and children with autism spectrum disorders.

Peggy has had previous experience working with NCCC teams on local projects and was impressed and inspired by their dedication, enthusiasm and overall mission. She wanted to have the opportunity to contribute to that mission and make an impact with the skill set that she possesses.

Peggy has been hired as a Campus Counselor for the North Central Region. Her responsibilities include providing consultation and counseling services to members, and supporting quality of life initiatives that focus on the physical, emotional and social wellbeing of each member. She believes that this position is the perfect opportunity to assist in member development on an individual and group level, and also to get a taste of macro level social work practice.

Fun Facts about Peggy:

First Job: Bus Boy at Zuber’s Restaurant

Favorite Movie: Indiana Jones Raiders of the Lost Ark

Favorite Book: Slapstick by Vonnegut

Favorite Candy: Chocolate-covered raisins

Favorite Past Time: Playing pretend with my 3-year-old son, Max.