I live and work with my husband, Kerry Keys, on a fourth-generation cow-calf ranch in the Sandhills near Elsmere. We are proud to have raised our two adult daughters, Stacey and Amanda, on this ranch. I substitute teach at area schools and enjoy making jams, jellies and denim hot pads that I sell at craft fairs. Agriculture has always been a major part of my life. Growing up on the family farm in Wayne County, I was active in 4-H, which has fostered my current involvement judging local and state 4-H events. I also have a passion for global awareness, which began during my participation in the International 4-H Youth Exchange (IFYE) program. After obtaining a home economics degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, I spent six months in Germany as part of the IFYE program and then worked in extension. I enjoy bringing my professional and life experiences together when conversing with others about rural life. Whether I’m sharing our way of life on the ranch and promoting Nebraska agriculture in the classroom, through interviews on Pure Nebraska, or with other moms at the grocery store, I’ve found that we truly do have CommonGround.