Campbell Marchant, Founder – The Seven2 Foundation
I listened to Kathy speak at the 2019 "Eight Eleven Group" sales conference. I remember watching her walk on stage with her dog, and admittedly I was like, Teacher of the Year? What does she know about sales? Well, Kathy might not know a thing about sales, but she taught me about life. She taught me how to value the people that come into my life. She taught me to tell those people what they mean to me before it is too late. She taught me to think of more than just myself. Who can I help? Who can I impact? I was 22 years old then, fresh out of college, and I can assure you the only thing I remember from that 3-day conference is Kathy’s speech!
Dr. Tara Star Johnson, Associate Dean for Learning – Purdue, University
Once I discovered what an amazing mentor teacher Kathy was, I fed her a steady supply of preservice teachers needing a classroom for their field experiences. She had a gift for reading my students’ character as well as their capacity for teaching–always spot-on in her assessment, usually after just one interaction–and then she met them where they were. She is a “warm demander” who had high expectations for growth but provided students with the tools to achieve them out of a place of love–not only for them but for *their* future students.
Mike Pinto, Principal - Cole Elementary School
I think about how for 14,000 children in this school district, blindness isn’t something to stare at or be fearful of, because Kathy has walked the halls with such courage. I am reminded that when we open our arms and our lives to all, how what once was considered different is now just routine. My children and staff (me included) don’t see Kathy as blind. We see that as a single characteristic of who she is. Kathy’s done that, which may be her greatest legacy.
Sue Scott, Communications Coordinator - Tippecanoe School Corporation
Powerful. Moving. Impactful. Kathy delivers a personal, inspirational message that resonates with any audience whether it’s a class of kindergarteners or a room of corporate executives. She is an extraordinary, gifted presenter who creates an emotional connection with the audience that leaves them feeling energized and motivated.
Kelsey Bowyer, Third-Year Elementary Art Teacher
I don’t have the words to properly express how much Kathy’s kindness and guidance have meant to me.
Talking to her during my first year was the first deep and authentic human connection I feel that I made
as an educator. Her desire to get to know me as a person has forever changed not only my life but also
the lives of my students in that I do what I can to make my students feel known the same way she made
me feel known.
Kelly Alexiou, Executive Administrator - Youth Opportunity Investments, LLC
I am in awe of Kathy! She has a way of bringing everyone together with so much compassion and love.
This is how I want to live my life, so basically I’m trying to follow her example.
Lynn Baize, Retired Teacher of the Visually Impaired
Kathy’s commencement address was tailored specifically for the young graduates, sincere and filled with
hope and encouragement. She is a master at weaving words into a beautiful tapestry, and her ability to
figuratively “tie it all up with a bow” is incredible. What a treat for us all!
Linda Fields, Principal - Hershey Elementary School
Kathy is one of the most engaging, versatile speakers I have encountered. I have been in attendance as she captivated groups as large as 500 and as small as 12 . Each time, the message delivered was designed to reach the unique audience before her. Kathy’s compassionate, dynamic speaking style will draw you in with real-life experiences that will have you crying at one moment and then laughing the next.