Boomerang Breakthrough

I am a boomerang, at least from an economic development perspective. I’m part of a contingent of local people who grew up in Enid, moved away for education or career opportunities, and then returned. In my case, I came back to my hometown in January after having lived elsewhere for 30 years. A 1994 Enid High School graduate, I attended the University of Oklahoma before heading off to start my career in Oklahoma City. A few years later, I moved to Tulsa where I’ve been for the last 23 years.

And then I came home to Enid. I didn’t start thinking seriously about moving back until 2022. The things I took for granted about Enid began to beckon, like the ease and cost of living, and the generosity and kindness of the community. I would never disparage my time spent in either of the metro areas in the state. I made lifelong friendships and learned so much about my profession and about myself. But I’m so much more relaxed and feel at peace now that I’m back in Enid. Even my mother says I’m a different person. I like to tell my out-of-town friends that I can run five errands in 45 minutes then watch their eyes glaze over in envy. For someone who was exhausted by bigger city traffic and frazzled people always in a rush, this is a win for me. The four-minute commute to work doesn’t hurt either.

I was also feeling the pull of family ties. I have three new nephews who are growing up too fast and I wanted to spend more time with my parents. I was tired of missing out on family events and holidays. And, thanks to the experience I gained along the way, I was able to move seamlessly back to Enid to work as Director of Marketing at Enid Regional Development Alliance. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to find another facet of family in my co-workers, Marcie and Debbie.

Most importantly, I’m comfortable, thrilled even, with my choice. When I left at age 18, I would have never believed I’d be back in Enid, but I’m very happy to be home.