by Keeley Moree

The Liberal City Commission has unanimously voted to hire Scarlette Diseker for the position of Liberal’s City Manager. Diseker, who began employment with the City of Liberal in August 2022, has served in multiple leadership roles, including the Director of Finance and Chief Financial Officer positions. Scarlette has managed operations as Interim City Manager since October 1, 2024.

Diseker was born and raised in Liberal, and says her commitment to her hometown is the reason for accepting her new role.

“I’m a Liberal girl – this is home for me and I’ve found working for the city to improve my community over the last few years to be very rewarding,” Diseker said. “My goal as City Manager is to help lead our capable team towards fiscally responsible growth and development that creates an incredible quality of life for all our residents.”

Prior to joining the City of Liberal, Diseker worked more than 20 years at First National Bank (later, Equity Bank). She says her experience in banking developed many important professional skills.

“The banking world requires close attention to detail and an ability to manage funds to reach your best return on investment,” Diseker said. “More importantly, it requires listening to customers and building positive relationships with your team. Building trust, responding to resident needs, and working collaboratively with others are activities that will continue to guide my efforts in this new position.”

Outside of her professional roles, Diseker has been a highly involved member of the Liberal community. Her community service work includes coaching cheer and dance teams for 18 seasons at the middle school, high school, and collegiate levels. She is currently serving as the Treasurer for the Stepping Stone Shelter and was instrumental in developing the dance program at the Liberal Rec Center. She is a 2014 graduate of Leadership Liberal and was recognized for her leadership efforts on the 2015 Chamber Calendar. Scarlette is a 1998 Liberal High School graduate. She completed her education in 2000 with Seward County Community College and 2003 with Friends University, obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. She has been married to Jason Diseker since 2008, who also serves the public as the Principal of Seymour Rogers Middle School.

“Speaking on behalf of the Commission, we are grateful for Scarlette’s professional expertise and work ethic,” Mayor Jose Lara said. “She has already made a tremendous impact reshaping our financial systems and we are confident that her dedication to this community will benefit all residents we serve.”