Equipped for Versatility: Abby Bagby’s (’21) Career Path in Speech Therapy
February 12, 2026 | 2-3 min read
For Abby (Beutjer) Bagby (’21), no work day looks the same. One day, she may be helping a student work through a speech or language challenge, while the next she is supporting a new mother who needs patience, encouragement, and practical guidance. Her mix of roles reflects the kind of preparation Bagby received as a liberal studies graduate at Florida College, where studying a wide range of subjects and developing adaptable skills prepared her for grad school and helped her learn how to think critically, communicate clearly, and care well for others in very different settings.
Bagby graduated from Florida College in May 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies. When she chose FC, she was looking for a place that would allow her to grow independently while still being surrounded by guidance and accountability.
“I knew it would be a good place for me to get some independence,” Bagby shared, “But also have support from friends and professors to continue to make the right choices.”
Today, Bagby works for Show Me Therapy Services, serving in multiple roles. Two days a week, she works virtually with a school, helping students address speech and language challenges. She also counsels mothers who are navigating the often overwhelming experience of feeding their infants. Across both roles, Bagby spends her time alongside families, teachers, and other professionals as they work through challenges together.
Her time at Florida College helped lay the foundation for her work today.
“Florida College helped prepare me for my current position by teaching me the importance of working hard and giving your best effort in all that you do,” Bagby shared.
She also credits FC with teaching her how to “work well with others to reach a common goal,” a skill she relies on daily in her work with therapists, teachers, and parents.
Beyond academics, Florida College shaped Bagby’s understanding of Christian community.
“Florida College taught me that I am not alone,” Bagby shared. “There are other Christians around me who are eager and willing to help toward the ultimate goal.”
This is a lesson that continues to influence how she approaches her family life, her work, and her involvement in the church.
Today, Bagby’s goals are centered on being present with her family. She values the flexibility her career provides, allowing her to spend meaningful time at home with her daughter. Recently, she and her husband celebrated their daughter’s first birthday, a milestone in a season she treasures.
Looking back, Bagby can see how much of her perspective was shaped during her years at Florida College.
Reflecting on her own experience, she shared, “Florida College encourages students to work hard in all we do and give our best efforts, which I have been seeking to apply in my family, work, and with my church family.”