Alan & Gwen Nelson Lifetime Student Award History and Art History

A self-described art enthusiast, Kathy spends a great deal of her time looking at art and engaging with local artists in the Washington, DC area. A licensed professional counselor, she retired from the Fairfax County Community Services Board in 2025 after a career in community mental health. With a focus on group therapy, she engaged adult clients in expressive therapies such as art making, book making, and going to local art venues. Kathy also works with Studio Pause, a community arts studio in Arlington dedicated to telling stories of Arlington’s Columbia Pike residents. She is a board member of the Washington Print Club, a volunteer run organization promoting the appreciation of printmaking and works on paper. Recently she began to volunteer with IA&A at Hillyer, a contemporary non-commercial art gallery in Dupont Circle.

In 2026 Kathy began group facilitation of “The Artist’s Way,” at the Friends Meeting of Washington (Quakers), exploring the depth of spirituality and creativity.  She enjoys collaging, making books, and recently began to challenge herself with watercolor.

Kathy has concentrated her auditing focus on the art history and African American history classes taught by the remarkable Dr. LaNitra Berger, and looks forward to continuing her art history education.