Title: School Social Worker

Location: Mounds View, Minn.

With experience guiding children through social skills in an educational setting and working as a chemical dependency counselor in women’s prisons, Kathie Anderson celebrates a successful 30-year career in the fields of education and social work. Skilled at reading body language and getting to the root of problems, she chose this career path because of a life-long wish to help those struggling with social issues. Ms. Anderson has been continually inspired by her students to dedicate her time and talents toward making a difference in their lives.

In order to prepare for this career path, Ms. Anderson earned a Master of Education, achieved a social work license and became a chemical dependency counselor. Utilizing her positivity and people skills, she faced and overcame challenges such as de-escalating situations and dealing with physical violence. Ms. Anderson considers her greatest accomplishment to be when a former student sought her out and told her how instrumental she had been in her graduating and going on to become a teacher. Passionate about her work, she hopes to be remembered for never giving up on her students.

Now retired, Ms. Anderson continues to help children through her involvement with the LION’s Program. She also supports the charitable missions of her church and is active in the Snap Back Program, a program that provides food to families on weekends. In her free moments, Ms. Anderson likes to spend time with her husband and family and enjoy her flower and vegetable garden.