How to Succeed with a Disability
In my presentation, I’ll share a glimpse into my personal journey with hearing loss—how discovering it at a young age shaped my life and how I’ve learned to embrace it as a strength. I’ll also talk about my path to earning the title of Mrs. Kansas International and how that experience gave me a powerful platform to advocate for hearing health. My call to action is simple yet vital: prioritize your hearing health, schedule regular screenings, and help break the stigma surrounding hearing loss. Together, we can create a world where hearing health is part of overall wellness.
Bio
Sophie Lamb is a proud Salina native and graduate of the University of Kansas, where she earned a degree in Communications with a minor in Business in 2008. For 14 years, Sophie built a successful career in higher education development, including a decade at KU Endowment, where she helped advance the university’s mission through closing some of the university's most transformational gifts.
In 2024, to achieve greater work-life balance, Sophie embraced a new professional challenge. With little to no experience she transitioned into sales in the tech industry. Today, she serves as an Account Executive at Gartner, managing four large enterprise accounts in Kansas City.
Sophie was born with hearing loss but she didn’t discover her condition until kindergarten and has spent years quietly navigating the challenges it presented. Now, she uses her voice to advocate for hearing health and empowerment. On January 9, 2025, Sophie earned the title of Mrs. Kansas International, giving her a platform to inspire others and raise awareness about hearing loss.
At the Mrs. International competition this past July Sophie placed in the top 15 and was awarded the "Style Award".
Sophie and her husband Jeff have been married for 16 years and live in Lawrence, KS with their two boys (Ford & Whit), and their dog Beckham.