Katherine White, 24, and her family grew up around Callaway County. She graduated last spring from the University of Missouri, and works as a speech language pathologist assistant at McIntire Elementary and Fulton High School.
White and Nikki Dowden are co-owners of Evolve Dance Academy, where White began dancing at when she was 7 years old.
On the weekends, she loves spending time with her family and friends, traveling to dance competitions, teaching dance class and going to church at Mokane United Methodist Church.
“My family and I are very close,” White said. “I love spending time on the family farm with them. I also love to hunt, fish and do anything outside.”
Before her father, David White, passed away, he worked for the school district in Fulton. And her mom, Sharon White, has been a teacher at Fulton High School for several years.
What was your first job?
I started working my first job at 15 years old before I could even drive, and I taught dance at the old studio here in Fulton. That same year I also worked as a pharmacy technician at Red Cross Pharmacy, which is now CVS.
Who inspires you the most?
I have been lucky enough to grow up around a lot of amazing people. But if I had to choose, I would have to say my grandpa, William Howard — who is married to Velma Howard, and my mom inspire me the most. My grandpa’s hard work ethic, kind heart and commitment to our family and God are all things I aspire to be like in my life. My mom raised my younger sister, Alexandra White, and I after my dad passed away. She has worked hard her whole life and our lives to ensure we always had everything we needed to be happy and successful. Her endless love has helped me get to where I am today, and I hope to be half the mother she is when I have kids.
What have you done that has been most fulfilling?
Honestly, the thing that has been the most fulfilling to me has been working with the youth here in the community, whether it be with my career in the schools or being a teacher at the dance studio. I’ve gotten a chance to meet so many great kids and families. Growing up, I’ve had a lot of great teachers and mentors who helped make me who I am today, so it’s nice to give back in that sense and be able to do the same for others.
What is something you are proud of that you’ve been recognized for?
I would say I’m very proud of my determination and work ethic. I’ve worked very hard to get where I am today. I’m determined to leave this world a better place than I found it.
If you could do any job in the world, what would it be?
I pretty much get to do my dream job everyday. I love to dance and I love teaching, so getting to run a dance studio and teach kids how to dance. It’s pretty much the perfect job.
What is a job you wouldn’t want to do?
I probably wouldn’t want to do anything that would require working long hours every weekend. Going to church and spending time with my family and friends is very important to me. I wouldn’t be willing to give that up. All of those things are more important to me than a job is.
What is your favorite thing about Callaway County?
I have a lot of favorite things. But my favorite thing about Callaway County is the community feel. I got to experience that firsthand after losing my dad. People step in around here and go above and beyond to care for one another, especially during times of need. It’s pretty special to know that no matter where you go someone is always around to help you out when you need it.