Katie Beveridge

Katie Beveridge 38 Occupation: System director of talent acquisition at Memorial Health Email: Beveridge.katie@mhsil.com

Education: Bachelor of science in business administration with a concentration in human resources management and a minor in Spanish from Saint Louis University; master of human resources and industrial relations from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Family: Husband, Colin; children, Graham and Abigail

Affiliations/community activities: Central Illinois Chapter of Society of Human Resources Management What is your guiding principle in life?

Whatever you are, be a good one. – Abraham Lincoln

What led you to your current career? My first job at 16 was as a teller at Heartland Credit Union, where I was trained not only on systems but also on delivering excellent customer service. I was inspired by the trainer and asked her about her role – that was my first real exposure to human resources. This interest led me to three summers interning in human resources at Memorial Health, which solidified my path. Returning to Memorial in 2023 felt especially meaningful, as it was the first employer to give me the opportunity to explore and learn about the human resources field.

What is your greatest hope for Springfield?

My greatest hope is that it becomes a place where everyone feels they belong and can thrive personally, professionally and as a community. I want to see us grow in ways that attract employers, support families, remove unnecessary bureaucracy and ensure equity in opportunity and access. What do you wish your younger self had known when you started on this path?

I wish my younger self knew that leadership isn't about having all the answers, it's about listening well, staying curious and building trust. Are there any events of the past year that have affected you and how so?

My heart aches over the tragedy in Chatham. It's a painful reminder of how fragile life is. I'm holding the families and community in my thoughts and hugging my kids tighter, slowing down and trying to be more present each day. What's the best purchase (under $100) you've made in the last six months?

Breakfast from Café Moxo – after going nine months without it, I was so excited they reopened.