Apr. 17, 2019
Chris Woodley • cwoodley@mailbox.sc.edu

Katrina Hutchins, Ph.D. began her Master of Social Work studies at the College of Social Work in 2002 as a single mother with two small children. But after navigating her studies, internships, two part-time jobs and parental duties, Hutchins graduated from the 11-month Advanced Standing program a year later with the faculty’s highest honor for academic achievement.

Hutchins will return to her alma mater to deliver the keynote address at the 2019 MSW Hooding celebration on May 9 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

"To say I was excited (to speak) would be a tremendous understatement; I was speechless,” said Hutchins. “It wasn't because I had nothing to say but because my journey as an MSW student at the College of Social Work quickly flashed before my eyes. In that moment, I was humbly honored to be invited back to speak to the hearts and minds of the next generation of world changers."  

Hutchins is the President and CEO of Re-Source Solutions, a personal and professional growth and development company. She is a certified personal and executive coach, consultant, inspirational speaker, author, and professor with experience as a senior leader in the nonprofit, philanthropic, higher education, and faith-based sectors. Previously, she was an adjunct instructor at Columbia College and the University of South Carolina College of Social Work, a consultant for community engagement for the college’s I. DeQuincey Newman Institute for Peace and Social Justice, and senior program director for the Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina. Hutchins, who currently lives in Orlando, Fla., is also the author of four inspirational books, including, The Voice Positioning System: 7 Ways to Harness Your Power and Master Your Influence, which was published in the fall of 2018.

In Sept. 2017, Hutchins established the Dr. Katrina E. Hutchins Endowed Fellowship Fund to honor her experiences at the College of Social Work. The endowment helps single custodial parents who are MSW students and facing the challenges of pursuing an education while raising a family alone. 

"I want to impart to the class of 2019 the power of their seat! You'll have to be there to hear more," said Hutchins.