“It was life-changing – which is funny because I thought it was so cliché when I was looking to apply. People kept saying LTC will change your life, and they were so serious about it. I laugh even more now because I’m that same LTC evangelist. When I come into contact with a person who brings up buzz words like leadership - I find myself saying, "You have to check this out,” said Holley Sowards.

Holley is an alumna of Class XVIII and Director of Funeral Operations at Einan’s at Sunset Funeral Home.

Einan’s is a full-service funeral and cremation facility and event center. 

Holley noted how they are highly focused on relationships and overall experience, “We want to take the time to get to know the family and their loved ones so we can make every life celebration special and unique to that individual.”

Discovering Her Purpose

Her job at Einan’s came from a chance encounter during the class project. 

“It all began with me opening my big mouth,” Holley said with a laugh, “I was throwing out ideas and chiming in here and there on our class project. I ran my mouth so much that Craig Maloney put me in charge of leading the planning committee.”

This was Holley’s first fundraiser, and she found it challenging – but was hooked. 

“My favorite memory with LTC was carrying out the class fundraiser for our project – we were able to raise $17,000 in a few short hours. 

It was at this fundraiser that Holley met Walter Kirkpatrick. 

"He told me, "Hey, are you looking for a job? We are hiring and need someone with your passion, energy, and ideas!"

She was interested and interviewed with them. She landed the job and has been with the company for 10 years, overseeing a staff of 29.

"Leadership Tri-Cities forced me to get out of my comfort zone…I learned how strong and passionate I am. I can't imagine where I would be without this experience."
You can hear Holley speak at the Leadership Tri-Cities Amplifying the Ripple Effect event on February 6th.