Sarah Villwock
A self-proclaimed “country mouse at heart,” Sarah Villwock grew up on a grain farm near Bicknell in Knox County. She, of course, went to Purdue and got her degree in public relations. That’s when her ag-related upbringing and marketing education collided, sending her into a career in the wine industry.
“When I was at Purdue, I worked for the Indiana Wine Grape Counsel,” Sarah says. “I did PR for the wineries throughout the state. But I never thought the wine industry would keep me in Indiana.”
Sarah’s dad met an executive with Oliver Winery while on a trip to Saint Martin. They started talking when her father noticed the man was wearing an Indiana hat on the beach. Her dad, proudly wearing his Purdue hat, struck up a conversation. Suddenly, Sarah had a job.
After working in the wine industry for 10 years, Sarah went back to school to train as an esthetician. It was through her long-time clients Misti Hays, Stephanie Oyler and Amanda Burnham that Sarah came to learn about Tri Kappa.
“They told me that I should join Tri Kappa because it’s such a rewarding organization with a valuable sisterhood,” Sarah says.
She took them up on their offer.
“In Bloomington, there are a million different things you can do to volunteer,” Sarah says. “But when you’re a part of Tri Kappa, you’re maximizing your dollars and able to contribute to many organizations while belonging to one club.
“It gives you the biggest bang for your buck while helping so many different people.”
Sarah and her life partner, Tim Keller, recently moved to Indianapolis for his new job. She found work there, too. However, Sarah’s heart is still in Bloomington, where she spent 20 years of her life.
“I felt like I was just starting to get to know everyone in the Bloomington chapter,” Sarah says. “I pretty much fell in love with Tri Kappa.”
So Sarah decided not to transfer her membership to Marion County. She enjoys her monthly drive down to Bloomington and uses her time before the meetings to visit with friends.
“I just love the camaraderie and meeting new people through Tri Kappa,” Sarah says. “Being on different committees gives me the chance to get to know people.”
That’s why Flower Day is her favorite Tri Kappa activity.
“It’s the best,” Sarah laughs. “I like being outside; it’s nice to get your hands dirty; you’re sweating with your cohorts; and everybody is helping each other out.”
More About Sarah:
Is a plant mom
Has never sung karaoke
Her car “White Lightning” has over 240,000 miles, and she’s owned it since 2008
Salt and vinegar chips are her favorite snack food
She was a 10-year 4-H’er