Kentucky native and Texas State alumna Kathi Haralson has been a dancer her whole life. Dancing is what brought her to Texas State after her high school drill team director introduced her to The Strutters.

“She took me there to visit, and I loved it,” Kathi said.

Kathi was a Strutter all four years at Texas State, but that wasn’t her only activity. She was a member of Chi-Omega, the Student Foundation, and Order of Omega. She spent most of her time in the dance department or in the new Chi-Omega house with friends.

“I took every opportunity that came my way,” Kathi said.

Kathi earned her B.S. in Education and Dance and moved to Austin to teach dance at Austin High School. Ten years later, Kathi left the dance team to become a mom. As her kids grew up, Kathi started to take on more activities and eventually took a job as the Executive Director of the non-profit, Pop-Up Birthday.

Pop-Up Birthday provides unique surprise birthday boxes and parties for children in foster care. Kathi has always had a passion for children in the system, so she’s been a perfect fit for this non-profit.

Through it all, Kathi’s had the support of her husband and kids who pushed her to do whatever she wanted. She loves to work in a team, and her greatest team is her family.

“One of my superpowers is seeing people's gifts and utilizing them,” Kathi said.

Now, much to the chagrin of her kids, Kathi still gets to bring out her dance skills at non-profit fundraisers and events.

“They’re embarrassed by it,” Kathi said. “But dancers gotta dance!”

Alumni Profile: Kathi Haralson