Jennifer Dunekacke-Hamm has been teaching science at Southern for nine years. She grew up in Rising City, Nebraska, and attended UNL to complete Animal Science and Psychology degrees, Curtis to complete a Vet Tech degree, and UNL for her teaching and Master’s coursework. Ms. Dunekacke-Hamm currently teaches 8th, 9th, and 11th grade science. She is also a sponsor for Jr. High Quiz Bowl and Science Club. She began her science teaching career in 2008 at Todd County Middle School in Mission, South Dakota on the Rosebud Reservation. Prior to teaching, she was a Licensed Veterinary Technician in Lincoln. Ms. Dunekacke-Hamm still loves animals, but wanted to change careers because of her passion for teaching young adults. She was a summer camp youth counselor for many years in college. Ms. Dunekacke-Hamm enjoys gardening, doing home improvement projects, and spending time with her extended family, cats, and husband and daughter, Hazel Lee. She also loves to hula hoop and go to live music events. She enjoys teaching at Southern and appreciates the close-knit community.