Kay Casey
The 2009 NFPW Conference in Texas was a success in part because of the strong leadership of then president Kay Casey. She is a dedicated member who volunteers her time and love for journalism to help others. She is another example of the amazing, unique and unbelievable NFPW members.
Name: Kay Casey
City and State: Denison, Texas
Affiliate and any leadership positions: Press Women of Texas, currently serving as treasurer, and communications contest director. Past president, scholarship director, publications and web editor, contest director, high school contest director.
Years a member of NFPW: 38 years
Tell us a little about you.
I think I must have been born with ink in my blood. My great grandfather was owner, publisher and editor of the Goliad (Texas) Guard. I recall helping his daughter, my grandmother, gather society and church news when I was in first grade. My other grandmother wrote poetry and I was tutored in news reporting for Brownie Scouts, one of many “reporter” offices I held through the years. In high school, I fell in love with “real” journalism as a member of the school paper staff and eventually pursued a 30-year career as a high school journalism teacher and publications adviser. I have enjoyed success in various writing and design contests, but my best work “samples” are my former students, many of whom are now making major contributions in journalism, education and related fields. We continue to share support for high school students as contest judges and mentors.
Early retirement gave me an opportunity to assist my husband in a five-year journey through early onset Alzheimer’s disease until his death. After a 45-year partnership, the concept of “I” was completely new and led to a second career as a volunteer communicator for community and professional groups who support education and occupational opportunities for women and girls, who assist those in need and who protect nature.
Any career advice you would give?
Be a lifelong learner and embrace change and challenges with grace and a positive attitude.
Kay Casey, center, with friends Elizabeth Johnson Fulce and Lynette George.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Music and art are coveted talents.
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
Pretty happy right here on our 46 acres growing hay and supporting wildlife in our woods and water.
What book are you reading?
Always have a stack, but Jim Cramer’s Get Rich Carefully and Laura Hildebrand’s Unbroken are my current choices.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a pretty open book, but some might be surprised at how much I enjoy getting really dirty gardening and landscaping.
Why is your affiliate and NFPW important to you?
Kay Casey, left, and members of the Texas affiliate pose with Texas student Karla Estrada who was selected as the first-ever Award of Excellence recipient at the NFPW conference in South Carolina.
Originally, I joined Texas Press Women to have a connection to the real world to better prepare my students for journalism careers. Through the 38 years, they have become my extended family and best friends. Being president when Texas hosted NFPW in 2009 was one of the most rewarding challenges because we could bring so many of our dear friends to our great state.
My national network of friends and colleagues has enriched my life and work because they are so smart and willing to share knowledge and experiences.
Way to follow you on a website, twitter, Facebook, etc.
I don’t spend much time on social media for myself; too busy trying to keep up with professional groups. Facebook: Kay Kinkler Casey and presswomenoftexas.org on the web.
Talking with Teri 