Meet the Farmers Market staff: Nora Bishop

Published on August 21, 2024

We’d like to welcome Nora Bishop to the Lenexa Farmers Market family. She is Lenexa Parks & Recreation’s new nature program coordinator, a role that includes supporting Market operations. We decided to ask Nora some questions about her experience so far.

What were you doing before taking on this role?

I was a student at Kansas State University studying park management and conservation. During that time, I also worked at the Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan, Kansas, where I did a bunch of outdoor education and natural interpretation. I also worked in a few research positions centered around ecology and entomology at K-State. When I graduated in May, I got to complete an exciting internship with Lenexa over the summer before being hired into my current role. 

Why did you want to be part of the Lenexa Farmer's Market?

I believe firmly in supporting farmers and small businesses of all types grow and connect with local people. I have attended farmers markets my whole life and think they are one of the best ways to connect people to really excellent produce and products that not only help them, but the vendors and community at large.

What has been most rewarding about the Market?

So far, the most rewarding thing about working at the Market has been connecting with the different vendors. Getting to hear them talk about their businesses is really inspiring. But it's also just  so amazing to see how many different people come together to make this market happen. 

What really makes your day at the Market?

Getting to talk to the people who come to shop. Just helping people find a booth that's selling what they want can be such a great moment, or getting to talk with guests about what's new this week and what makes our market excellent is very rewarding. 

What do you do when you are not at the Lenexa Farmers Market?

I'm often out of town visiting friends or outside trying some new outdoor recreation. I love hiking, biking and horseback riding, and am always looking for something new to try. I have had a blast rediscovering all of the wonderful parks, lakes and trails around the area. 

What is your favorite food?

My favorite food is falafel.

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

I used to host my own radio show!