Kathy has been mentoring young writers since 2003 and is committed to using the power of story to foster a more just and inclusive next generation. Since founding Shout Mouse in 2014, Kathy has helped provide platforms for over 500 new youth authors and overseen the publication of 50+ books. For her dedication to promoting diversity, inclusion, and narrative change, she was awarded the Changemaker Award in Social Justice by Duke University in 2021.

Prior to this work, Kathy was the DC Director for Writopia Lab as well as the regional affiliate for the Scholastic Writing Awards, through which her students won national recognition every year. Her own writing has earned recognition from places like the DC Commission on Arts and Humanities as well as fellowships to writing programs in Kenya and Prague. Kathy received her BA from Duke University and her MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Arizona. She has also completed the Nonprofit Management Certificate Program at Georgetown University. Kathy is originally from Cincinnati, Ohio and enjoys hiking, reading, traveling, and dreaming big dreams for Shout Mouse and its authors!