Community is defined in a multitude of ways. For some, it is defined by the people within a geographic region. For others, it is defined by the interests of a like-minded group. For Adrian Heckman, community is defined as family.
“I think of the community as a family that I want to help improve, grow, and support at all times,” Adrian says. “There might be different sections of the community, but ultimately if one area is struggling, the whole community is struggling. I am doing my best to help support those around me and Jefferson City as a whole so we can continue to grow and make things better for the future. If we don’t help out where and when we can, then we would see no progress.”
Adrian’s commitment to progress is clear. In addition to her role as a product manager serving customers at Central Bank, you will find Adrian actively serving in the community. Not only is she a coach for the Thomas Jefferson Middle School Archery Club, but she’s also the service chair on the summit committee for Jefferson City Young Professionals, a team member for Unforgettable Alzheimer’s, a booster for Capital City High School football, and multi-talented volunteer at the United Way of Central Missouri and Red Slipper Warrior Project.
Her can-do spirit was inspired by Mark Dudenhoeffer, who is not only her most impactful role model, but also her grandfather. Her grandparents, who served as her primary caregivers growing up, taught Adrian what hard work really looks like.
“[Mark] is always saying yes to help anyone who calls and will give anything to be able to keep helping out,” Adrian says. “He dedicates his time to family, friends, and anyone in Jefferson City. He taught me the meaning of hard work.” An avid learner, Adrian believes “if someone offers to teach you something new, never turn it down. Education gets you so far in business, and you should seek and accept any education opportunity you get.”
Additionally, her friend, McKenzie Bennet, is always there for Adrian, encouraging her, pushing her, and helping her remain accountable to her goals.
“McKenzie is more like family than a friend, so I know I never want to let her down,” Adrian says.
Looking back on her life, Adrian sees her trials and tribulations as integral parts of her success story. If she could go back in time and tell her younger self one thing, it would be to have faith.
“All these ups and downs and the battles you fight every day will be worth it,” she says. “Keep pushing, keep learning, and keep challenging yourself to set a new example for your family.”
JOB TITLE
Product manager with Central Bank
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Finance from Columbia College
FAMILY
Curt Heckman (husband), Alden Kimlinger (son)
SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES
Facebook – Adrian Heckman
Twitter – @adriannicole
Instagram – @adriannicole89
INVOLVEMENT
Red Slipper Warrior Project
United Way of Central Missouri: Power of the Purse, marketing committee; Dine United, co-chair; Governing Body, team member, Thomas Jefferson Middle School Archery, coach
Young Professionals, service chair, Young Professionals, summit committee; Unforgettables Alzheimer’s, team member; Capital City High School Football Boosters;
FAVORITE PLACE IN JEFFERSON CITY
Downtown.
MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW
I love to hunt.
FAVORITE APP
Amazon Music.
MOST USED SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM
Facebook.
FAVORITE MUSICIAN OF THE MOMENT
Luke Combs.
WHAT THREE WORDS BEST DESCRIBE YOU?
Determined, outgoing, and dedicated.
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