Katie McCuen Recognized as a Career Connect Superstar

Congratulations to Youth Services Career Coach Katie McCuen on being recognized as a Career Connect Superstar! This honor celebrates team members who embody our vision of a community transformed by empowered learners.

In her current role as a Youth Services Career Coach, Katie guides young people aged 14 to 24 as they navigate career pathways, job applications, college preparation, and everyday life challenges.

“We really are more than just a career planning program,” Katie said. “We’re navigating every up and down with them.” This is a belief that stems from Katie’s own life journey.

Katie has been with Kalamazoo RESA for four years, bringing a deep personal drive to her work. Growing up in foster care, she joined a foster advocacy board at age 16. This experience sparked her lifelong passion for youth advocacy, mental health, and policy reform. She holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work from Western Michigan University and previously worked in child welfare and emergency mental health.

Katie’s commitment to student success was also highlighted when she received the Living Our Values: Advocates award at the annual Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) Summer Summit. This honor recognizes her dedication to advocating for students and helping them navigate challenges, unlock opportunities, and achieve their goals to make a lasting impact in their lives.

“My favorite part about my role is really watching those transformations, whether big or small, and watching the youth blossom into something that they didn’t think they could do,” Katie said. “It only takes one supportive adult in your life to really shape your future.”