We are proud to highlight alumna Haley Archer, a 2010 graduate of Tonganoxie High School. During her time at THS, Haley was an active and engaged student, participating in the Chieftain Stars dance team, school musicals and plays, Forensics, Student Council, and the National Honor Society.
After graduating from THS, Haley earned a B.S. in Bible/Leadership from Manhattan Christian College and a B.S. in Art Education from Kansas State University in 2014. Her passion for education led her to teach elementary and middle school art for four years, inspiring young artists in Junction City, Olathe, and Eudora.
While stepping away from the classroom to focus on family, Haley has continued to channel her creativity through freelance design work, including designing the THS soccer shield logo, the Tonganoxie Early Prep logo, and the Eudora National Education Association logo, and she completed her first mural in the children’s wing at Cornerstone Family Worship in Tonganoxie last year. She also runs her own Etsy shop and has done a variety of custom portraits over the years.
Most notably, Haley recently achieved a long-time dream by writing, illustrating, and self-publishing her first children’s book, Goodnight, House. The book beautifully honors the unseen work of a caring father as he puts his house to bed after his children are sleeping, offering a heartwarming bedtime story for families. She is currently working on her second book, with plans for release this summer.
Now residing in Lansing, Kansas, Haley enjoys life with her husband, Craig, who serves as the worship pastor at Wallula Christian Church, and their three children.
Haley credits much of her confidence and success to the incredible teachers who impacted her during her time at THS. Mr. Steve Harrell and Mr. Ken Church played a significant role in shaping her high school experience through forensics and theater, instilling confidence in her during a formative time in her life. She is also grateful for Sherrie Miller (Evans), whose passion for English and dedication to her students helped Haley become a confident writer—something that has been invaluable in her creative journey.
“I truly had so many incredible teachers during my time at THS,” Haley shares. “I feel so blessed to have been taught by such amazing educators.”
We are incredibly proud to celebrate Haley’s journey and contributions to the arts, education, and literature. Her passion and creativity continue to inspire, and we look forward to seeing what she accomplishes next!
Help us recognize other awesome alumni like Haley by sending an email to socials@tong464.org!