Monroe Made: Kristen Hunt

Kristen Hunt, a 2006 graduate of Sequoyah High School, has built an impressive career serving with the Department of Defense in the United States Air Force. Now living in San Antonio, Texas, she has dedicated nearly 13 years to military service, earning the rank of Master Sergeant and deploying around the world, including upcoming service in the Middle East.

Kristen credits her Monroe County education with shaping the trajectory of her life. “My Monroe County education provided me with the tools, experiences, and knowledge that have helped shape who I am. It helped me discover what I am good at, what I care about, and the future that I wanted to achieve,” she shared. She also credits Dr. Lon Shoopman for being a constant source of encouragement, helping her believe she could achieve anything she set her mind to.

Among her proudest accomplishments are earning her Master’s Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Services Management, and receiving the 2024 Force Support Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year award for the Air Combat Command.

Though her career has taken her far from home, from Texas to South Korea to the Middle East, Kristen says Monroe County will always be the place that shaped her into who she is today. She reflects: “Growing up, you aren't able to see the impact people make on our lives. The education system helped lay the foundation for who I have become; the teachers, coaches, and administrators constantly pushed me to see my potential and to strive for that.”