Foundation Scholarship Recipient Tells Her Story

 

Junior mathematics education major Katelynn Moats is a recipient of the Butwin Family Endowed Scholarship. She has taken advantage of all Indiana State has to offer by committing herself to her education, extra-curricular activities and community service. Through her interest and involvement, Katelynn has been able to develop a meaningful relationship with the scholarship donor, Patty Butwin.

Katelynn first met Patty, class of ’71 and ’73 and ISU Foundation board member, two years ago in the Commons in Hulman Memorial Student Union. She instantly knew from their first interacting that she and Patty would bond well.  Since that meeting the two have formed a close-knit relationship. Katelynn even jokes that she is a younger version of Patty, because people are always telling her she is exactly like her mentor.

“You never know what will happen when you put yourself out there,” Katelynn said. “Like Patty always tells me, ‘Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.’”

This statement provided inspiration for Katelynn as she began working with Patty to co-create “Go Figure,” a math program at Terre Haute Children’s Museum.  The program works to teach and enhance the math skills of area youth in a fun, creative and challenging environment.   This collaborative effort involves the development of curriculum, programming, and local partnerships which allows Katelynn and Patty to continue their mentoring relationship on a regular basis.  The success of the program has also provided other Indiana State students with involvement in leadership and mentoring roles.  The program is in its second year and has provided experiential learning opportunities outside the classroom for both Wabash Valley children and Indiana State students. 

The program is an ideal fit for Katelynn as she is passionate about being a leader, role-model and mentor and serving her community.  Katelynn is a resident of Terre Haute and graduate of Terre Haute South.  

“When I know it’s going to make a difference, time doesn’t matter,” Katelynn said. “I can’t say no when I’m doing something good for others.”

Aside from her love of mathematics education, Katelynn is also pursuing five minors:  Spanish, civic leadership, recreation management, youth leadership and non-profit organization management. 
 
“ISU has provided me with more opportunities than I could have ever imagined,” Katelynn said.

Katelynn is highly involved on campus and is very appreciative of the experiences she has gained thus far at the University. She is a member of Indiana State’s Educators Association, National Educator’s Association, American Humanics Student Association and Chi Omega Sorority. Katelynn has also been involved with the ISU Foundation as she serves as the president of the Sycamore Ambassadors student group and has held internships with Leadership Wabash Valley and Leadership ISU.

Katelynn credits her experiences with help her achieve her future educational goals.   After completing her Bachelor’s Degree at Indiana State, Katelynn plans to earn both her Master’s and Doctoral degrees.
 
“I want to do as much as I possibly can with my education,” Katelynn said.