One defining moment in my life will stand out forever.  This moment gives me comfort through the rough times and also makes chills run through my spine.  This moment happened when I was young, 6 to be exact.

My grandfather was my role model.  He was my go-to guy, who with a simple hug could turn any frown upside down.  His smile lit the world for miles, and I’ll never forget the flat hair on his head, due to the trucker hats he wore.  He had a love for life that shined through every stride he made, and every situation he came across was handled with humor and grace.  He was that consistent light in my life, and I never wanted to disappoint him. Pawpaw Larry was my best friend.

Brenda Thornhill, director of international students program, has been assisting students from abroad for the last 22 years.

“I do many things that mothers, sisters and grandmothers do for American kids,” Thornhill said.

As director, Thornhill’s responsibilities range from providing most of the services that the Registrar’s Office provides to potential KC students, such as registration and financial aid. She must also handle special requirements that only foreign students must deal with, such as visas and English-learning programs.