Spotlight Winner

Catherine is the Executive Director of the Workforce Diversity Network of the Black Hills. A non-profit corporation working with employers to understand the benefits of hiring and retaining individuals with disabilities. WDN is working with local business, Business Owners, Employers, Human Resource Managers and the public, to provide education and information that is transforming a more diverse and inclusive workforce in Western South Dakota, where everyone can reach their full potential.

Catherine began her career in broadcasting here in South Dakota and has held numerous positions of Business Development for fortune 500 companies throughout the Western United States. After losing her eyesight in 2011 and facing some discrimination she knew that employers needed more education on disabilities. Catherine’s mother had taught severely disabled children in the 60s and 70s, her daughter has an autoimmune disease that has led to a loss of eyesight and her father had become disabled and had to change careers when Catherine was a child. All of these life experiences lead her to her true calling and her current position as Executive Director of WDN.