Kasey (Theye) Murphy
Alumni Spotlight
I am certainly grateful to have attended Diller-Odell Public Schools. Knowing the names of not only every single person in your class, but also every single person in your junior high and high school, is a rarity. Growing up in a small town and attending a Class D school has helped shape the person I am today. The individualized attention and dedication we received from the teachers and staff made for an easy transition to more challenging college level courses.
I graduated from Diller-Odell in 2006. After graduation, I studied pre-physical therapy at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I was accepted early into physical therapy school at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. In 2012, I graduated with highest distinction earning my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and Bachelor of Science in Medicine degree. I have worked as a physical therapist at Beatrice Community Hospital and Health Center since 2012. I have an interest in women’s health physical therapy. My husband, Trevor, graduated from Wymore Southern in 2006. (Don’t worry, though; I will never be converted to a Raiders fan.) He is employed at Norris Public Power District as a Utility Lineman. We live in Beatrice.
The successes of students who graduated from Diller-Odell can be credited to the environment at the school; in this small school environment, students feels safe, students can ask questions, and students are pushed to do their best. The teachers, staff, and coaches at Diller-Odell were approachable; it was evident that they wanted each student to succeed. The opportunity to participate in multiple clubs, music, and sports teams is a benefit for any high school student. My involvement in athletics instilled leadership and communication skills. Our coaches were excellent role models, teaching us the values of respect and teamwork. In May, I ran my sixth full marathon in Lincoln, where I qualified for the 2015 Boston Marathon. My experience with high school athletics taught me dedication and perseverance, which has helped me with running as an adult.