Nicole Hoerschgen-Koenke Alumni Spotlight

For Nicole Hoerschgen-Koenke, Cowley College was more than a place to earn a degree—it was the foundation for her family, her career, and the life she has built today.

Her connection to Cowley began long before she ever stepped on campus. With deep family roots tied to the college.  Her grandmother taught at Cowley where she met her grandfather Kenneth Judd Jr. Their daughter Lesleigh, Nicole’s mother, also attended Cowley. In addition to her grandparents, her ties go back another generation with her great-grandfather, Kenneth Judd Sr., for whom the choir room is named. Nicole always felt a strong pull toward Cowley. After visiting campus and seeing all it had to offer, the decision became clear. It was the perfect place to receive a quality education without the burden of debt.

From 2008 to 2010, Nicole fully immersed herself in campus life as a theater major. She was actively involved in Concert Choir, CC Singers, Act One Drama Club (serving as president), Film Club, and the Improv Comedy Troupe. Her dedication both inside and outside the classroom earned her recognition as a member of Phi Theta Kappa, and she was also honored as a Homecoming Queen candidate. These experiences not only shaped her passions but also opened doors to opportunities she never imagined, including travel to cities like New York and Chicago—memories she shared with her future husband.

Cowley proved to be life-changing in more ways than one. It was there that Nicole met her husband, Paul, and formed friendships that would grow into lifelong family bonds. Today, those connections remain at the heart of her life. Their children affectionately call Cowley friends their aunts and uncles, and longtime director Connie Donatelli is lovingly known as “Gram Gram.” Through every season—both joyful and challenging—that support system has remained constant.

That bond was especially evident during times of hardship. Nicole recalls the loss of their friend Bert Hutson as a moment that deeply impacted their community. In the face of that loss, their Cowley family came together in unwavering support—leaning on one another, showing up, and proving that the connections formed at Cowley extend far beyond college years.

Nicole also reflects on the lasting impact of mentorship during her time as a student. Faculty members like Connie Donatelli and Jamison Rhoads continue to influence and guide her today, shaping not only her education but the person she has become.

Her experience at Cowley extended far beyond the stage. As a theater major, Nicole gained hands-on experience in every aspect of production—from performing to building sets, and managing lighting and sound. That well-rounded education gave her a deep appreciation for collaboration and teamwork, lessons she continues to carry into her professional and personal life. Today, those same skills have helped her support and grow fine arts opportunities within her local school community.

After Cowley, Nicole transferred to the University of Central Oklahoma, but the impact of her time as a Tiger never faded. She went on to build a life rooted in the values she developed during her college years. Alongside raising her three children—Carter, Evvy, and Judd—Nicole has continued to grow the photography business she started at Cowley, while also working as a full-time substitute teacher and private vocal coach.

Some of Nicole’s most cherished memories include her Cowley family showing up for life’s biggest moments, including the birth of her first child. The experience was so impactful that she and her husband have made it a family expectation that their children will attend Cowley College for their first two years, carrying on the legacy that helped shape their lives.

Known to her students as “Mrs. K,” Nicole finds great joy in supporting and encouraging young people. She credits her time at Cowley for shaping the way she shows up for her students, striving to be the same kind of safe, supportive presence that her professors were for her.

For Nicole, success isn’t defined by awards or titles, but by the impact she makes. Through her businesses, her work in education, and her involvement in the community, she continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Her advice to current and future students is simple: get involved and say yes. Step outside your comfort zone, try new things, and build connections—but also stay committed to your academics and take advantage of available resources.

“If you truly invest in your time at Cowley,” Nicole says, “you’ll leave with far more than a degree. You’ll leave with a community, a foundation, and a life shaped by those experiences. No matter how you come to Cowley, you won’t leave without a family.”

Hunter Ferguson | Integrated Communications Specialist
Cowley College
125 S. 2nd Street
Arkansas City, KS 67005
hunter.ferguson@cowley.edu