10 Under 10 Award Recipient: Katherine Stritzke ’08 Simons

“She is responsible for the transformation of retail online and in stores around the globe.”

Ten Under Ten Award Recipient Katherine Stritzke ’08 Simons

Katherine Simons graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor of arts degree in management from Hope College.

“Hope College prepared me to think critically, to value the thoughts and contributions of all, and to adopt a lifestyle of continuous learning.”

The skills and experiences gained during her time at Hope prepared her for various roles within the business industry and the continuation of her education. Simons received her master of business administration from the University of Chicago in 2018. During her graduate studies, she focused on strategy, marketing, general management, managerial and organizational behavior, and entrepreneurship.

Simons believes “those with a rigorous liberal arts education are best prepared to engage and address the biggest challenges and opportunities of the day.” She utilized her undergraduate education in various roles early on in her career as a brand leader for GFS Canada, business transformation manager for Gordon Food Service Corporation, and senior manager of strategic management with Kohl’s Corporation. Following the completion of her graduate studies, Simons accepted a role as the director of marketing for Cat Footwear, a brand of Wolverine World Wide, Inc.

During her time at Gordon Food Service, Simons was honored as a member of the Gold Club and received Person of the Year for her contributions to the company. She also has played an active role in her communities, by volunteering with the Groundswell Community Farm in Zeeland and with Kohl’s Associates in Action. Simons has also given back to Hope College with the gift of her time by serving on the Hope College Veritas Forum as a planning committee member and publicity chair and as a Hope College Baker Scholar selector.

Katherine Simons receives her Ten Under Ten Award presented by Western Seminary Professor of Theology Kristen Johnson.

The “10 Under 10 Awards” honor emerging leaders who are making significant contributions by living out their callings; engaged in the local and global community through professional and/or volunteer involvement; and use their education to think about important issues with wisdom and clarity, communicate effectively to bridge boundaries that divide human communities and act as agents of hope living faithfully into their vocations. Designed for alumni who are within 10 years of graduation, they are presented by the Hope College Alumni Association. Make a nomination today!

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