Millennium Magazine_6th Ed

39 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine KATHRYN ANN RANSOM EDUCATOR, RELIGIOUS AUTHOR (RETIRED) WestBow Press Springfield, IL many minds as possible. Over the years, she has served as an adjunct professor at several Illinois universities and colleges, a supervisor of reading and English departments at local public schools, a teacher and a publishing company consultant. Since 2018, Ms. Ransom has been a religious author through WestBow Press and teaches an adult class at the South Side Christian Church in Springfield, Illinois. At the age of 83, Ms. Ransom published her first book in 2019, “Ransom Notes: Moments of Reflection, Courage, Engagement, Worship and Humor.” She attributes her career success to hard work, guidance from above, supportive friends, a willingness to open new doors and various events of serendipity. In five years’ time, Ms. Ransom hopes to watch her book gain more traction with readers, and also to write another book that is not self-published. An avid traveler, she also predicts another visit to Europe. Her advice to aspiring teachers and writers is to never give up, try new things and keep learning, as the job can be incredibly eclectic and ever- changing. She stresses that a major part of the job is emotional expression; the ability to be vulnerable with your students can make their learning experience that much more special. Ms. Ransom also believes any job one takes on should be something they love, as life is all about making the most of the moments. Ms. Ransom is a member of the Academy of Life-Long Learning and American Association of University Women, and also sits on the board for the Illinois Symphony Orchestra and Guild. She previously served on the board of directors for Lincoln Christian University, WSEC Public TV and is the former president of the International Reading Association, now known as the International Literacy Association. K athryn Ann Ransom received a BS in religion and education from Southwest Missouri State University and an MA in counseling from the University of Illinois. In pursuit of a career in which she could share her religious knowledge, she chose to take an educational route to reach as ARTS, MEDIA AND ENTERTAINMENT