40 Under 40 from Fayetteville Observer: Jennifer Kistler from Firehouse Subs

Last name: Jennifer kistler
Age: 38
Place of birth: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Where do you live now? Fayetteville
Employer: Fire station submarines
Job title: Owner operator
Who are your immediate family members? Husband, John Kistler; sons: Colton Walters and Lanning Kistler; mother, Karen Dawes
Education: Bachelor of Science, Business Management and Marketing
What community and professional groups are you affiliated with? Salvation Army, St. Patrick’s Catholic School (PTO), former member of the Fayetteville Junior League
What are your guiding principles? I follow the golden rule: treat others as you want to be treated.
How do you volunteer your time in the community? I support St. Patrick’s Catholic School by getting involved in the PTO, serving as a roommate, volunteering for Field Day, hosting regular Spirit Nights, and sponsoring their annual St. Patrick’s Day Run. . I was a former member of the Fayetteville Junior League where I volunteered at the Holly Day Fair every year. Through Firehouse, I donated food and water to our local first responders and supported the Paddling for Pennies event. Each year we make the Salvation Army Angel Tree program a success by sponsoring a tree, which is one of our most anticipated events. I sponsored Spirit Nights for Cumberland County Schools and contributed to the very special CCS arts event. I also volunteered with my husband to support the Fayetteville Kiwanis Club Diaper Bank Distribution Program.
Who has helped you be successful in your life and career? My mom was my strongest cheerleader and supporter in pursuing my dreams of honoring my late father who was a 34 year firefighter for the city of Lauderhill, Florida. My father is pictured holding my son, Colton, on the mural that is displayed in my restaurant. Last but not least, my dedicated employees who work hard every day and my loyal customers who have supported my growth over the years.
What goal would you like to accomplish before you turn 40? I would like to continue my studies in the field of interior design.
What’s your favorite book ? “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott
What are your hobbies? Spending time with my family, gardening, hiking, flower arranging, home decorating and traveling
What is your most precious possession? My father’s firefighter’s helmet that hangs in my office at work
If you had a theme song for your life, what would it be? Sara Evans’ “Never Alone”