Katherine Colbenson, President 2024-25

Oct 01, 2024 11:45 AM

KCA 2024-25 Officer and Director Installation

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KCA 2024-2025 Officer and Director Installation

Kathy Colbenson, President

Kathy is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 50 years of experience. Since 1987, Kathy has been the Chief Executive Officer of CHRIS 180, where under her leadership, the organization has grown to become a leader in the Southeast around trauma-informed care, behavioral health, child and family welfare, wraparound services and community partnerships. Over the years, Kathy has provided consistent leadership through innovation and initiatives that break down barriers and result in outreach and help for underserved, invisible and traumatized populations.

CHRIS 180’s impact is demonstrated through programs and initiatives including: counseling centers; out-patient substance abuse programs; a school-based mental health program serving 81 schools; juvenile justice programs and programs for children in state and federal foster care; a permanent supportive housing complex and drop-in center for emerging adults, including young parents; as well as several community programs designed to strengthen families through wraparound services, adoption and to build community through decreasing gun violence and promoting healing. The CHRIS Training Institute is dedicated to training in trauma informed care and developing the clinical and human service workforce.

Kathy’s awards for her work advocating for underserved communities span decades. In 2003, Kathy was humbled to receive the Dan Bradley Humanitarian Award from the Human Rights Campaign for her work and advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth; in 2010 she was recognized with the Evelyn Ullman Innovative Leadership Award; in 2013, Kathy was honored to receive the Turknett Leadership Character Award and in 2023 she was honored with the Vision for Children Award for her lifetime of work on behalf of children. She has been selected as one of Atlanta’s Most Admired CEOs and in 2020 Kathy was recognized as a Woman of Achievement and named a 2020 Woman Making a Mark by Atlanta Magazine. Every year since 2019 Kathy has been named one of Atlanta’s 500 Most Influential Leaders by Atlanta Magazine. Kathy’s passions include volunteerism and donating to many social and environmental causes. In addition to CHRIS 180, Kathy serves on the Board of the Georgia Commission on Service and Volunteerism to which she was appointed by the former and current Governor. She is an active alum of Leadership Atlanta, serving in several capacities since 2004. Kathy is retiring this year. She has two dogs, two cats and enjoys hiking, traveling and photography.

INSTALLATION: Marbury Rainer

INVOCATION: Blake Young