At Easterseals Arkansas, the heartbeat of our mission lies in the dedication of our incredible team members. This week, meet Kathryn Norton, Development Manager on the Development & Marketing team. She is one of the many people who go above and beyond each day to help individuals with disabilities lead more independent and fulfilled lives.
From Volunteer to Staff: A 15-Year Journey
Kathryn Norton's journey with Easterseals Arkansas began more than 15 years ago as a passionate volunteer on the young professionals board, now known as the Guardians. For five years, she rallied supporters at signature events like The Fashion Event and Art & Soul, pouring her heart into the mission long before it became her career.
With a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Arkansas State University and experience in pharmaceutical sales, Kathryn was searching for work that felt more meaningful. When the opportunity arose to join the staff, she didn't hesitate. This January, she'll celebrate a remarkable milestone: a full decade dedicated to advancing the Easterseals mission.
“I wanted work that connected me to something bigger, something that truly mattered,” she reflects.
For Kathryn, Easterseals was a natural fit. Growing up in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, she watched her mother serve as a speech and language pathologist while her parents led countless community fundraisers. That upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of service that continues to guide her today.
The One Who “Makes It Pretty”
Kathryn's aptitude for bringing ideas to life shines in every event she plans. Whether she's coordinating catering menus, selecting linens, or styling centerpieces, her colleagues affectionately credit her with "making it pretty." But her contributions go far beyond aesthetics. Known for her reliability and unwavering work ethic, Kathryn steps in whenever and wherever help is needed, and she does so with kindness and grace.
Her teammates appreciate not just her creativity, but the way she encourages everyone around her to reach their highest potential. Kathryn combines her marketing savvy with a genuine love for people, creating experiences that connect donors, volunteers, and families in ways that truly matter. Every event she touches becomes more than just a gathering. It becomes a celebration of community, purpose, and possibility.
Life Beyond Events: Tea Time, Yoga, & Tru Fru
Outside the office, Kathryn treasures the simple moments. You'll find her cherishing quality time with her rescue dog, Henry, or welcoming her niece off the school bus for the latest "tea" on teenage life. Those conversations and cuddles remind her what matters most: connection, presence, and love.
A dedicated yogi, Kathryn finds balance and peace on her mat. She lives for pool days in summer and looks forward to lively trivia nights and line dancing gatherings at Trinity Presbyterian Church, where she serves on the Fellowship Committee. Her commitment to community extends far beyond her professional role. It's simply who she is.
And if you really want to make Kathryn smile? Offer her Tru Fru's chocolate-covered strawberries. She may just have a soft spot for that perfect combination of sweet and indulgent!
A Legacy of Heart and Connection
Kathryn hopes to be remembered as someone with a big heart who brought people together:
“I want people to remember that every occasion was special, and that compassion and purpose mattered in everything we did.”
Whether she's transforming a ballroom for a gala, rallying volunteers for a fundraiser, or simply encouraging a colleague through a challenging day, Kathryn Norton leads with creativity, warmth, and unwavering commitment. Her ability to inspire others to live with compassion and purpose continues to uplift the Easterseals community daily.
Thank you, Kathryn!
Easterseals Arkansas thrives because of people like Kathryn Norton, professionals who combine knowledge with heart and expertise with empathy.
Want To Create A World of Possibilities? Join Our Team!
Connect with this story? Consider this your sign. We at Easterseals Arkansas invite you to be a part of something bigger. Whether you're a therapist, educator, or just passionate about helping others, this may be the perfect place for you to not only grow your career but make a meaningful difference.
Opportunities are available now. Together, we can create a world of possibilities; one voice, one breakthrough, one person at a time.
