For Laurie Ek, mortgage loan officer at The Citizens State Bank, McPherson is more than a hometown. It is a community woven into her family’s history.

Ek was born and raised in McPherson, as were both sets of her grandparents, her parents and her siblings. The family has deep roots in the area, with multiple generations attending McPherson schools and graduating from McPherson High School.

“My maiden name is Grant,” she said. “That name has deep ties to McPherson.”

One of those ties is Grant Sports Complex on the north side of town, a facility named in honor of her grandfather.

“The complex was always an idea my grandpa had, a place where all sports and youth could come together,” Ek said. “When it was dedicated, he was so proud of it, and I still am today.”

The connection has become even more meaningful over the years as Ek watched her own children compete there.

“Watching my kids play at his complex has been something special,” she said. “It’s a sense of pride every time I step foot out there.”

That sense of family, community and shared history is part of what makes McPherson such a special place for her.

“I love the small-town feel of McPherson,” Ek said. “Everyone knows someone or knows of someone.”

Among her favorite local traditions is All Schools Day, the annual community celebration honoring McPherson’s students. Held each year on the second Friday in May, the event features a parade down Main Street and activities that bring together thousands of residents and visitors.

“It’s truly a McPherson thing,” Ek said.

She believes McPherson offers something for everyone, whether they’re lifelong residents, returning home after time away or moving to town for the first time.

“Moving is a big change, but moving to McPherson can be easy,” she said. “We have experienced realtors who help make the transition smooth, and there are many organizations that help newcomers feel at home.”

For Ek, McPherson’s appeal goes beyond its strong schools, community events and welcoming atmosphere. It is also a place where family legacies endure, from generations of graduates to a sports complex inspired by her grandfather’s vision.

“It’s a community that values connection,” she said, “and that’s something I’m proud to be part of.”

Stop by and see her at The Citizens State Bank, 223 N. Main, McPherson.