Meet Sandy Hannibal Kimmey – St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic Church

Have you met Sandy?

We asked Sandy some questions so that we can get to know her better.

What is your name?

Sandy Hannibal Kimmey

How long have been a staff member at St. Stephen the Martyr?

Since 2019

What is your position?

Sacrament and Events Assistant for Religious Education

Where did you work before St. Stephen the Martyr?

I am a freelance artist. I paint custom canvas art as well as commercial and residential wall murals through Murals By Sandy, LLC. I had the privilege of painting the murals in the SSM school library several years ago! Over the past 15 years, I have spent a lot of time serving SSM in various positions. I am currently a substitute teacher for the school, which I began doing during the Covid need. I spent 6 years prior to that running the Martyr Mission Art Auction, creating collaborative art projects with the school kids for parish fundraising. I served as the parish Children’s Liturgy Coordinator for 5 years as well. When I first joined the parish, I was a Sunday School teacher. I am thrilled to now be joining be the SSM Religious Education team again!

Where did you grow up? Where did you go to school?

I grew up right here in Omaha! I began my college studies at Colorado University and completed a Masters Degree at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Tell us about your family (spouse, children, grandchildren, pets, etc.):

My husband Kris and I have been married for 23 years and have three amazing children who have all attended St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic School. Our youngest, Charlie, is a seventh grader here; our daughter Molly is a senior in high school; and our oldest, Bradley, is a junior at UNL. We also have a mini-Golden Doodle named Daisy. Two of my sisters also work here at SSM–Amy Webster is the school art teacher and Julie Shaner is on the Church Advisory board and is also an 8th grade RE Catechist. My daughter Molly and niece Olivia also teach Religious Education at SSM. Our mom, Mary Lou Hannibal is often seen helping around the Church and School as well! (We “Hannibals” love SSM!!)

What’s your favorite thing to do on the weekends?

I come from a big family, and we try to get together for dinner every Sunday evening. I’m one of four girls and my sisters’ kids and mine are raised like siblings. My parents and sisters and I take turns hosting “the group hug” (now 29 of us!) for Sunday dinner, which usually includes Corn Hole tournaments or board games 🙂

What do you like to do for fun? What do you like to do to unwind/relax?

I love the arts—painting, literature, playing piano and writing. My daughter is a dancer so I love watching her perform, going to the ballet and attending Broadway shows. I also love to be outdoors—working in the yard, walking my dog, or just reading on the deck. We take family vacations every year—the Rocky Mountains are my home away from home!

What’s your least favorite chore around the house?

Laundry! I am blessed with a husband who graciously tackles chore for our household!

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Broadway Star (unfortunately I can’t sing or dance).

Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?

I have more than 50 completed journals that I started writing at the age of 12. I also taught piano for about 10 years.

What is your favorite food?

Seafood (not so convenient being landlocked in cow country).

What is your favorite sweet treat?

Ghirardelli Salted Carmel Squares

What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

Complements generally embarrass me so I deflect before they really register!

What three items would you take with you to a deserted island?

A blank journal, a bottle of red wine, and a cozy blanket.

What’s your idea of a perfect day?

Doing anything with family.

What do you enjoy most about working at St. Stephen the Martyr?

St. Stephen feels like home to me. Just being here brings me peace and comfort. I love to be surrounded by people who are all just doing their best to serve God.

Which word in our mission statement has the most impact on you? Why?

Joy—I find great joy in faith and in being part of a faith-filled community!

What advice do you have for others to grow their Catholic faith and relationship with Jesus Christ?

For me personally, my adult faith grew enormously alongside my participation in Bible studies, a SSM Mom’s Group, and prayer groups. I’ve also developed a routine of morning meditation on the Gospels and feel closest to Jesus there. Lastly, I’m a huge proponent for doing the Cloisters on the Platte Retreat! Each time I have attended, I experienced tremendous spiritual graces and encourage everyone to attend!