Dena Beck

I live in Buffalo, NY, and we are in the middle of a Narnia-like deep freeze at the moment, so I find myself looking back at the pictures I took in and around Red Cloud last July. Everything about my time in Nebraska was wonderful. Willa Cather drew me there, and it is even more beautiful than I could have imagined.

When I came to volunteer at the Cather Foundation, I met Brenda Knehans and Carol Kumke, who taught me how to paint barn quilts. I want to thank the Red Cloud community for giving me a warm welcome each time I visit, and answering my questions about all things Nebraska. Red Cloud is now my second home! 

I am continually amazed at the rich history of Red Cloud and all the wonderful things in that area. What a gem! I have been involved with economic development for nearly 25 years and to see the progress in Red Cloud warms my heart and solidifies my belief in the amazing things rural communities can do!

The Starke Round Barn is an awesome accomplishment! Modern buildings just cannot compare. Amazing architecture. 

As a graduate student from Taiwan, the opportunity to attend the Willa Cather Spring Conference was a huge milestone for me in my academic life. Not only did I get a chance to visit and experience both Red Cloud and UNL in person, I was also thrilled to meet and learn from the generous community of Cather scholars. Wonderful events like these not only showcase and celebrate Cather's legacy, they instruct and inspire foreign students like myself.