Kim (VanCalster) Fenske - Class of 1990

We're excited to highlight a 1990 FVL alum whose high school experiences helped shape a lifelong passion for leadership, service, and encouragement. From performing in the Fox River Valley Lutheran Youth Band to being influenced by dedicated teachers and coaches, Kim (VanCalster) Fenske’s time at FVL left a lasting impact. Today, she continues that legacy by investing in people and helping others discover their God-given purpose. 

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Kim Fenske - Fox Tales Q & A

What is your most memorable high school experience?

One of my most memorable high school experiences was marching in the Fox River Valley Lutheran Youth Band as a color guard rifle spinner—an experience that taught me discipline, coordination, and the joy of performing as part of a team.

Who has had the greatest influence on your time at FVL?

Mrs. Debbie Kenyon (cheerleading coach), Mr. John Roekle (student council advisor), Mr. Matt Schlawin (advanced math instructor), Mr. Paul Wendland (band director), and Mr. Jon Peterson (Choreliers director) encouraged me to grow, challenged me, and believed in my leadership qualities.  

What are you doing now professionally and how did you get into this career path?

I currently work as a Leadership Coach, supporting individuals and organizations in developing strong, people-centered leaders. My career path grew out of roles in education, training, and employee development, where I discovered my passion for connecting with others, so they can discover their God-given purpose, understand their unique strengths, overcome barriers, and find fulfillment in both their work and personal lives.

What was your first job?

My first jobs were delivering newspapers as a paper girl and babysitting, both of which taught me responsibility, consistency, and the importance of being dependable.

What is one thing most people don’t know about you?

One thing most people don’t know about me is that my husband and I own a VRBO on the Wolf River, which we designed as a gathering place for connection, rest, and meaningful time together.

What is something valuable you learned during your career?

I’ve learned that truly listening to and caring for people—valuing them as individuals—matters deeply. Every person is God’s precious child, and when people feel genuinely seen and valued, growth naturally follows.

What’s one lesson from your high school years that still sticks with you?

One lesson from my high school years that still sticks with me is the power of encouragement and belief. When trusted adults challenged me, encouraged me to grow, and believed in my leadership, it shaped my confidence and taught me to extend the same grace and encouragement to others.

Anything else you would like to share with the FVL community?

Be curious about where God may be leading you, even if the path isn’t clear yet. Every experience—big or small—happens for a reason and can shape you in meaningful ways. As you grow in self-awareness, you’ll better understand your strengths and learn to value others more fully. Stay connected, serve others well, love God more, and trust that while we are responsible for faithfulness, God is responsible for the outcomes.


 

 

Photos of Kim and her family
In the left photo, Kim is wearing a white scarf. In the right photo, she is the 3rd from right, wearing a headband and dark coat.