A consummate community personality, Katie has spent a significant part of her life improving herself and giving back generously to her community. She arrived in Riverside as a United States Air Force Staff Sergeant in 1969 at March Air Force Base, Moreno Valley. Her arrival in California was "a dream come true." She had dreamed of living in California since her youth, and when her dream came true, she showed her thanks and appreciation by immersing herself in California life.
She became a Licensed Vocational Nurse while in the Air Force in 1970. She later attended Riverside City College and became a Registered Nurse (1975). Katie is baffled when she recalls that on her graduation night from RCC Nursing School, she was approached by a Registered Nurse who informed her that she was leaving her job and recommended that Katie should apply to be her replacement. Katie did, and she was hired less than one week after graduation. She worked as a Psychological Counselor for the County of Riverside Mental Health Department in her new role as a Registered Nurse. After two years and facing budget cuts, Katie's position was cut in Mental Health. She then transferred to Riverside County Public Health, where she worked in the Child Health & Disability Program. Progressive minded and always desiring to advance in her field of endeavor, Katie volunteered and was chosen to attend Registered Nurse Practitioner courses in both Pediatrics & Adult Primary Care, which was paid for by the County of Riverside. She later attended UCLA/Harbor General Hospital's Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program and Adult Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Program. Katie worked for the County of Riverside for twenty-nine years before retiring in 1996.
Katie remained in the United States Air Force Reserves and was honorably discharged through retirement in 1996 at the rank of Major after serving 34 years of active duty and reserve duty combined. True to her life motto that "Learning never ends," Katie attended Citrus Belt Law School and earned a Law Degree (Juris Doctorate).
Katie has always been cognizant of serving and giving back to her community. She volunteered at her church to provide monthly blood pressure monitoring. She has co-taught a Sunday School class. She has served on several boards including Mount Rubidoux Manor, County of Riverside Mental Health Advisory Council, City of Riverside Public Utilities Commission (Ad Hoc member), and City of Riverside Ad Hoc Code of Ethics Committee. She has been a featured speaker at school career day programs over the years. Currently, she serves as President of the Riverside African American Historical Society, Inc., where she is a lifetime member, and as Chairwoman of The Group, which she helped found in 1999. She is also a member of Soroptimist and Church on the Hill, where she previously served as a board member.
Her proudest accomplishments, besides attaining an education, are being one of the founding members of The Group, being part of the City of Riverside Ad Hoc Code of Ethics Committee, and being a lifetime member of the Riverside African American Historical Society, Inc.
What does Riverside mean to you? Riverside is a city that is not too huge, yet not too small. I love that I can see and feel growth in it since I arrived here in 1969. Riverside has an ample number of organizations for one to find an interest and get involved in. I like that Riverside is not overly expensive to purchase a home and live a decent affordable life. I am proud that Riverside elected a female Mayor. I love the number of people who feel empowered to run for political office in Riverside. My biggest regret is that Riverside discontinued our Greyhound Bus station years ago and it still has not entertained bringing it back. I am proud of the number of nice hotels we have in Riverside. I am thankful that I still feel comfortable navigating around Riverside whether in my automobile or on foot. Lastly, Riverside's weather... I love it!
What is your Mt. Rubidoux summit count (estimated)? Probably more than 13. When I was younger I trekked up Mt. Rubidoux every year for Easter Service. I miss it!
What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? I enjoy simply going to the Galleria Food Court... lots of food choices and people watching there!
What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? The Court House... I love the inviting steps.
What is your favorite Riverside small business? Spirit of Texas on Magnolia (new and welcomed by me).
What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? Fair Housing Council, Inc. They are serious about helping the needy. They care, it is more than a job for them. I have participated in their Thanksgiving Food/Turkey giveaway for many years.
The Festival of Lights: Every year on opening night or maybe on a Tuesday? Tuesday.
What is your go-to sandwich in town? Spirit of Texas shredded beef.
What is your idea of a perfect weekend day in Riverside? MLK, Jr. Walkathon. I love the togetherness shown and felt.
What is your favorite spot for a date night? A cozy meal at Marie Callender's.
Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? Galleria.
What is one place in Riverside you would bring back if you could? Gemco.
If you could put one message on a billboard on the 91, what would it be? "Learning never ends."
Finally, tell us what you're working on right now and how our readers can support your efforts—whether it's a project, passion, or cause close to your heart! Much of my effort is keeping abreast of what's happening and what decisions are being made by City & County officials. We should not vote them in and fail to keep abreast of how they are representing our needs. Present pressing issue: Why would the City of Riverside return $20 million dollars to the state rather than use it to build housing for the unhoused?! The motion should be brought up for reconsideration. I resent the unconcern our city officials display toward the homeless & poor in Riverside and it especially angers me when City Officials imply that most homeless people are in the position because of drug addiction (that is naive, not studied thinking). Officials need to take the time to learn the many reasons people find themselves homeless and to have compassion and then vote intelligently! I did attend the Council meeting last month and spoke on this issue. And, I did join the residents who are asking the Council to bring the issue back for reconsideration.
Neighbor of the Week and Local Legends is our way of celebrating the hidden heroes of Riverside—those who go above and beyond to make our community stronger, kinder, and more vibrant. We believe every remarkable Riversider deserves their story told. Know someone who’s making a difference? Nominate a Neighbor of the Week
