Full Name:  Amanda Rae Conrad

Born: April 18^th, 1983- Edina, MN

Family: I have an amazing fiancé, Jared Berg who is an 8^th grade English/Reading teacher in Columbus, NE. I also have my late father Chuck, mother Georgia and her husband Larry, my sister Amy and her husband Matt and their 4 kids Allyson, Ashleigh, Ayden, and Anderson. I am also marrying into a wonderful family- Therese and Jim, and my soon to be brother Jon. And last but not least is my dog Dacotah- she is the best dog in the world!!!

School: I am a graduate of Washington High School here in Sioux Falls. I received my undergraduate degree from Augustana College in Business/Communications and Theatre, and I am currently working on my Masters Degree in Education at the University of Sioux Falls.

Job: I currently work full time at the YMCA as a Youth Program Director. I oversee our Middle School After School Programs, Special Events (Dances, Fun Nights, etc.), Christmas Camp, Explorers Travel Camp, and Theatre Camp. I love my job- I am continually blessed by the kids and staff that I work with every day.

Most Life Changing Experience: That would definitely be the month of March 2003. In one month’s time, my cousin died, my grandma died and then my father passed away from a heart attack. In that month, life broke me down as far as I could go- when you’re down as far as you can go, you are forced to look up- and see God. I truly believe that it is only when you are truly broken that you are able to fully rely on God. That experience has forever shaped and molded me into the person and I am and the person I long to be.

Favorite Musicians: I am a big fan of Bebo Norman, Super Chick, Toby Mac, Casting Crowns, and any & all musicals!!! (And of course Jared Berg!)

Interesting Facts: When working at the YMCA, you get trained to do many things- diversity is the nature of the Job. Because of that I am a certified bus driver, high ropes instructor, cycling, and aerobics instructor. I also have a background in ASL and Spanish.

Favorite Bible Verse: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3: 5-6