Keisha Knepper's Sabbatical

At PolicyWorks, we believe personal growth fuels professional growth. After 15 years of employment, our team members are eligible for a 5-week sabbatical. It’s an intentional time to step away from the office, explore, and recharge. Our colleague Keisha recently took advantage of this unique opportunity, and her adventure spanned oceans, cultures, and coasts.

Keisha began her sabbatical with a warm-weather getaway to Florida to celebrate her nephew’s birthday. Between catching up with family in her former hometown, soaking in the sun at Treasure Island, and catching a Tampa Bay Rays game, she had the perfect blend of relaxation and fun. A comedy show and long walks on the beach made it a meaningful start to her time away.

From there, Keisha jetted off to London and landed on her birthday. She made the most of every moment by visiting the British Museum, Tower of London, and Crown Jewels, strolling along the River Thames, and checking off major historic and cultural landmarks including Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and even Notting Hill. Keisha soaked up the iconic charm of London one step at a time.

Next stop: Paris. A highlight of her time in France included exploring the stunning Palace of Versailles, the artistic energy of Montmartre, and the world-famous Louvre. She visited the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, and so many beautiful gardens and museums that her footsteps could have painted a map of the city. Keisha embraced the culture and cuisine so much that she’s still recreating one of her favorite Parisian meals at home.

Getting around both London and Paris by train and on Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours added a layer of excitement and independence to the journey. But Keisha’s international tour didn’t end there. On her way back to the United States, she stopped in New York City where an unexpected NJ Transit strike added a bit of urgency. She made the most of it, fitting in a whirlwind tour of Times Square, 30 Rock, Madison Square Garden, and Fifth Avenue before heading home just in time.

Back in Des Moines, Keisha wrapped up her sabbatical with two more well-deserved weeks of downtime. She tried out new local restaurants, spent meaningful time with her mom, and reflected on a month full of discovery.

We’re thrilled to have Keisha back, re-energized and with stories to share from around the world. And if you’re wondering what she’s cooking for lunch today, chances are it’s something très délicieux from Paris.