Michelle Berndt, 27, Coralville
Administrative Representative @ Kaplan University, Davenport

I recently accepted a job as Administrative Representative at Kaplan University in Davenport. We discussed moving but decided we’d rather commute than leave this area.

After holding the title of Miss Johnson County in 2005, I realized this was the place that I wanted to live and raise a family. I had never met such supporting and encouraging people.

When we moved into Coral Court Condominiums, our neighbors were friendly and helpful. It was easy to feel at home and develop new friendships. I started working at RR Donnelley and my husband Stephen drove to Davenport everyday to Palmer Chiropractic.

Zion Lutheran became our church and immediately wrapped their arms around us as though we had been members for years. We then crossed the street to Mercy Iowa City and gave birth to our first child Grayce. Afterward I joined Ladies Workout Express and to no surprise met more inviting people.

Every weekend there was something to do: Iowa football games, the Iowa Children’s Museum, farmers markets and more. Often I found myself trying to convince friends to move here or come for a weekend and experience the atmosphere and diverse culture.

My platform is literacy and Johnson County has shared the same passion. In 2005 I started First Book Johnson County and since then we have raised over $18,000. Our mission is to provide brand new books to low income families and implement the importance of daily reading.

Now, as Mrs. Johnson County, my goal is to become Mrs. Iowa in June. It’s one thing when your loved ones believe in you but to have an entire community behind you is priceless.

PHOTO BY: Cliffe Jette