School of Continuing and Professional Studies

Kathryn M. Green

Kathryn Green’s humanitarian efforts stretch far beyond the boundaries of Chicago, touching the lives of people from Minneapolis all the way to Thailand.

Green, who is working toward her post-baccalaureate certificate in paralegal studies, says that volunteering provides her an opportunity to expand her thinking and to be exposed to different perspectives. One of her most rewarding experiences was leading a group of Korean cultural exchange interns in the cleanup of a local park. Volunteering was a new experience for the interns and at first, they were skeptical, but Green says that by the end of the day they were amazed by the impact that a small group could make in just a few hours.

“I found their willingness to try something so far outside their comfort zone inspiring,” Green says. “And having the chance to share my love of volunteering with them was a rewarding opportunity.”

For nearly a decade, Green has also dedicated herself to humanitarian causes on an international level. She achieved grant proposals upwards of $20,000 for needed resources in Thailand through the Karenni Development Research Group and was taught classes in Thailand on English, environmental studies, as well as conflict, resistance, and peace. Several of her students were refugees and trauma survivors.

Closer to home, Green coordinated operational activities as a program associate at Simpson Housing Services in Minneapolis and since 2015 has worked in Chicago at the Greenheart Exchange as a compliance specialist and compliance and services manager.

She chose to enroll at Loyola because she felt the University’s deep commitment to social responsibility and global engagement closely matched her own personal values.

“I have found that Loyola offers a constant reminder to consider not only how our choices guide our academic and professional development but also the impact those choices have on the wider community. Loyola’s example has helped me better realize the importance of finding what inspires you and striving to stay true to that inspiration.”