In both her career and volunteer efforts, Kathy Oaks is passionate about connecting people with the right resources, individuals, and ideas to make great things happen. She believes women are the conveners, builders, and visionaries of their communities, and values being part of an organization that supports effective women’s leadership.
A Member of the Junior League of Lubbock (JLL) since 2011, Kathy has held many leadership positions. She has twice been Bylaws Chair, where she digitized her League’s policy documents and reporting procedure to ensure accessibility to all members. As JLL’s inaugural Diversity and Inclusion Chair, she led the effort to develop a three-year DEI Strategic Plan to increase diversity and equity, and bring training and educational opportunities to members. As Research and Development Chair, Kathy identified potential new focus areas for her League by interviewing individuals throughout her community. Among other leadership roles, she has served as Membership Enrichment Chair, Nominating Chair, and Fundraising and Donations Chair. For her work with JLL, Kathy received the Shining Star Award.
Outside of The Junior League, Kathy has served on the Board of Directors of the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, on the Lubbock Steering Committee, and was Chair of the Young Professionals of Lubbock. She is also on her local American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball Committee and is active in the All Saints Episcopal School Parent Group, including as a former President. Kathy has been an American Cancer Society CEO’s Club awardee and a Young Professionals of Lubbock “Twenty Under Forty” recipient.
As the Senior Volunteer Engagement Manager for the American Cancer Society, Kathy leads the organization’s volunteer engagement strategy, cultivating ideas and tools to help recruit, develop, and engage volunteers across all programs. Throughout her career, Kathy has had the opportunity to launch two completely new departments. She loves developing strong teams that bring a new vision to life.
Kathy earned her Bachelor of Arts in English and Communication Studies from Texas Tech University.