People with Purpose: Mindy Markham

Mindy Markham believes that connection and communication can sustain us through even the most difficult of transitions.

Markham, director of the School of Health Sciences and winner of the Presidential Award for Outstanding Department Head, has dedicated her career to helping people navigate life's transitions.

Whether conducting research to help families navigate co-parenting after divorce or supporting students, faculty and staff through the changes that come with college life, Markham is passionate about supporting others through change — finding her purpose in helping people feel heard, understood and equipped to move forward.

Q: How do you help students navigate emotionally complex topics with empathy and professionalism?

Markham: Students often face challenges during their college years, and it's important that they have trusted people on campus they can turn to for support. I try to start by listening so I can better understand their situation and work alongside them to identify the most helpful support.

Sometimes students simply need someone to listen; other times they may need guidance toward campus resources or help connecting with multiple offices to address their needs. Above all, I believe every student deserves to have someone in their corner who can help them navigate difficult moments and feel supported along the way.

Q: What has leading the School of Human Sciences taught you about your purpose as an educator?

Markham: Serving as director has broadened my understanding of what it means to be an educator. I've always enjoyed mentoring students, but this role has shown me that mentoring also extends to supporting faculty and staff as they grow in their careers and continue to make an impact on others.

Leading a school with multiple programs has given me a deeper appreciation for how our work fits together and how profoundly our faculty and staff influence students' lives every day. I do what I can to create conditions that allow faculty and staff to succeed. When they have the support they need, they can prepare students to become exceptional helping professionals in fields ranging from therapy and education to healthcare, public service, and community leadership. Knowing that my work ultimately contributes to that larger mission gives me a strong sense of purpose.

 

Q: What is most rewarding about watching students discover how they can make a difference?

Markham: Many students enter the School of Human Sciences knowing they want to help people, even if they are not yet sure how. It is so rewarding watching students discover where their strengths, passions and career goals intersect.

As students take courses and gain applied learning experiences through class activities and assignments, volunteering, job shadowing, professional networking, and internships, there is often a moment when everything clicks. They begin to see how they can apply the knowledge and skills they’ve gained in a meaningful career.

I also enjoy staying connected with alumni and hearing how they are using what they learned at K-State to serve individuals, families, and communities. Seeing that journey come full circle is incredibly fulfilling.

Q: What challenges facing families today motivate your work the most?

Markham: My research focuses on family relationships following parental divorce and separation. I am particularly interested in understanding what helps families maintain healthy and supportive relationships across separate households during and after these transitions.

Together with my colleague, Anthony Ferraro, I co-direct the Divorce Education Assessment Collaborative, which reviews divorce education curricula used across the United States and evaluates program outcomes. Our goal is to identify approaches that effectively support diverse family types and provide evidence-based guidance for those experiencing divorce or separation. Ultimately, my work is motivated by a desire to help families access the information and resources they need to navigate these transitions in healthy and constructive ways.

Q: What advice would you give students who are interested in pursuing a career in your field?

Markham: Keep an open mind and be willing to explore. Volunteer in your community, seek out internships or job-shadowing opportunities, talk with professionals in fields that interest you, and take classes that spark your curiosity.

One of the greatest strengths of many degrees offered in the School of Human Sciences is their versatility. These programs can lead to a wide range of helping professions, creating tremendous opportunities, but can also feel overwhelming at times. Gaining hands-on experience is one of the best ways to discover what energizes you, what aligns with your strengths, and where you can make the greatest impact. The more experiences you seek out, the clearer your path is likely to become.