Celebrating 20 Years with TCEA: Katie Treat

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Here at TCEA, we love a chance to celebrate. Birthdays, certifications, and work-iversaries all call for a hip-hooray via Slack (often accompanied by a special treat). But some milestones stand out, even amidst the most cheerful of celebrations. Most recently, the TCEA staff celebrated our very own Katie Treat, who has served the organization in many capacities since 2005.

20 Years of Change and Growth

Yes, you read that right. Our very own Operations and Projects Manager has been with TCEA for 20 years, many of which have helped to bring positive change within the organization.

Back when Katie joined the TCEA team as an office assistant, she was the organization’s ninth full-time employee. Her days were largely spent juggling incoming emails and phone calls (especially during the fall, when we open registration for the TCEA Convention & Exposition). After her first three years with the organization, Katie was named executive assistant to our new (and current!) executive director, Lori Gracey—a role that would eventually morph into her current position.

Katie explains, “Back then, we had one conference and a few academies. Fast forward 20 years, and TCEA has grown by leaps and bounds! Under the leadership of our board and Lori Gracey, and input from our members, we’ve expanded our learning opportunities to meet educators’ ever-changing needs. Oh, and we’ve moved offices twice since I’ve worked for TCEA, each time to bigger and better spaces due to staff growth and our event needs!”

“My day-to-day has changed a lot over the years, but you’ll still find me organizing board meetings, overseeing the building upkeep, and various projects whenever needed. Basically, I’m in a little bit of a lot around here!” she says.

Reflecting on Two Decades’ Worth of Memories

When asked about some of her favorite TCEA memories, Katie did not disappoint. And while the full list may be too long to include in a blog, it very prominently highlights the key aspect that makes TCEA different: our people. From Peggy Reimer’s famous cookie decorating parties to staff office-door-decorating competitions, there’s no doubt that Katie treasures and is an integral part of the TCEA team.

“One year after a state robotics contest, I walked out of Hutto High School expecting to give the all clear to everyone so we could go home, only to find TCEA staff, board members, and volunteers standing in a huge circle and cheering for me. It was overwhelming in the best way,” Katie recalls.

“My youngest son, who had been helping as a runner with score sheets, squeezed me tight and said how proud he was. He was barely in middle school then; he’s 21 now. That moment still gives me goosebumps and it’s something he brings up every once in a while.”

Katie’s Friendship Is a Real Treat!

And while it’s clear that Katie enjoys spending time with the rest of our team, it’s no secret that we all feel the same way.

“Katie is the heart of TCEA. For 20 years, she’s been the go-to problem solver and the person who makes things happen. She’s the true superhero of the association,” says Peggy Reimers, one of TCEA’s directors of professional development.

Jeannine Freeman, TCEA’s partnerships and events manager, also chimed in, saying, “Katie is one of the hardest workers I know: always dependable, always willing to help, and someone you can truly count on. She’s not only an incredible teammate, but also a true friend.”

And, as someone who also considers Katie a friend, I feel qualified to say that Katie’s kind words, quick wit, and quirky sense of humor can brighten up the toughest days. Our team is not only grateful to work with Katie, but glad to know her as well.

Cheers to the Next 20 Years with Katie Treat!

“As far back as I can remember, I wanted to be a kindergarten teacher,” Katie says. “While I didn’t end up in the classroom, I get to go to work every day knowing that what we do at TCEA impacts educators and students. That’s powerful and very meaningful. That and all the great people I cross paths with is why I’ve stayed all these years.”

“Education budgets may be tight,” she continues, “but TCEA is as mission-focused as ever: advancing teaching and learning through technology. I’m excited to see what creative solutions and opportunities we roll out in the next year, five years, and even ten years. Having been here nearly half my life (and still nowhere near retirement), I’m looking forward to seeing the journey continue right alongside our members.”

Please join us in celebrating Katie’s first 20 years with TCEA in the comments below!