Kate Reyes Sam brings more than 17 years of experience in education, nonprofit leadership, and workforce development to her role as Director of Community Impact for United Way Ozarks Region. A passionate advocate for educational equity and opportunity, Kate has dedicated her career to ensuring that every individual, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to the resources and support needed to thrive. Her expertise spans career development, leadership cultivation, restorative justice, and community engagement, with a strong focus on creating systems that expand opportunity and empower people to reach their full potential.
Prior to joining United Way, Kate served in several leadership roles with Teach For America, including National Director of the Career Center, Regional Director of Alumni Affairs, and Regional Manager of Teacher Leadership Development in the Rio Grande Valley. She began her career as a public school teacher in St. Louis, where her firsthand experience in the classroom strengthened her commitment to educational equity and social impact. Throughout her career, Kate has been recognized for her leadership and service, including being named a National Semifinalist for Teach For America’s James W. Foley Moral Courage Honor, serving as keynote speaker for Harmony House’s Purple Party, and receiving the Ron Gubitz Award from Teach For America St. Louis.
Kate holds both a Master of Arts in Nonprofit and Civic Leadership and a Bachelor of Arts in International Political Studies and Spanish from Drury University. She is a Certified Career Services Provider through the National Career Development Association and has completed leadership and advocacy training through Leadership for Educational Equity. Deeply engaged in the community, Kate is a founding member and chair of the VOICES Committee at the Greene County Family Justice Center and serves on the organization’s Board of Directors. Guided by the belief that a child’s ZIP code should never determine their opportunities in life, Kate is committed to building stronger communities where all people can develop agency, pursue their aspirations, and thrive.
