Ready for a New Role
Barb Arnzen retiring to be a grandparent

For the past seven years, Barbara "Barb" Arnzen has worked at SD1 as a legal administration specialist. Her time at the District is coming to a close, as Barb will retire at the end of March.

A Fort Thomas native and a Northern Kentucky University graduate, Barb says she plans to stay in the area forever. 

“My family is my hobby," she says. "I value them and the place we live in. We raised our family here."

Barb began working in the records department at SD1 and was quickly given a variety of roles as time went on.

She then began working with the Board, taking minutes for the monthly meetings, and began to oversee SD1's process to gather every department’s standard operating procedures.

“It’s a nice variety," she says. "I get to work with different departments and get to meet different people." 

She also manages insurance claims and helps out wherever she can around the Main Office. 

Barb earned a law degree from the NKU Chase College of Law, but did not practice law for many years after having children. 

“After the kids left and were grown, that’s when I started with SD1 and took on a nice stationary job,” she said. 

Despite her multifaceted job at SD1, Barb said she is thrilled to take on a new role for her family and children. 

With three children and a new grandchild, Barb is eager for big changes in 2024. “All three of my kids live about a mile from each other and from us," she said. "I am excited to take on the job as grandparent.

“I turned 65 just awhile ago," she adds. "I am at the age where I qualify for retirement, and I have a new grandson. That was the incentive for retiring and making that decision. It’s a Godsend."

Along with a new member in the family, she is also looking forward to a trip to Europe with her husband, and her son’s wedding in October. 

“I’m excited for more time with my husband," she said. "I’m looking forward to traveling and just more adventures in the future."

Even though she is excited for many big changes, Barb says she will miss SD1 and all of her coworkers.

“It sounds very trite and cliché, but my favorite part was the people I worked with," she says. "Catching up with people in the breakroom. Seeing what their kids are doing. We’re lucky. I know a lot of places don’t have that."

To anyone just starting at SD1, Barb says to work hard, do your best and ask questions.

“Don’t give up," she adds. "Everyone here is very open to helping and mentoring. Take people up on that."

She said she will also miss the little things, like taking walks during break and events with her coworkers. 

“I’ll miss the walking trail out back," she says. "I’ll also miss fun days like Opening Day this week. I just liked the interaction with my coworkers."

Her final message to coworkers: “I hope to see you on the outside. It’s been a pleasure to work with everyone. I’ll still run into Mindy at Walmart!” 

Barb's last day will be Friday, March 29. Be sure to wish her well on her next chapter!