The Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program: Katie Brethorst

The Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program has recently announced the members of its inaugural class, designed to celebrate exceptional graduates under the age of 40 or those who have earned their degrees in the past five years. This program specifically recognizes recent alumni who have emerged as innovators and creative thinkers in their fields, aiming to inspire current students and soon-to-be graduates.

The History Department has one of its own as a part of the inaugural class: Katie Brethorst! Brethorst graduated with a B.A. in History (2020), and an M.A. in Public History (2022) from UIS. She currently serves as the Deputy Director at the Grayslake Heritage Center and Museum, located in Grayslake, Illinois. Since graduation, Brethorst got married, moved to the Chicago area, and earned her current position at the Grayslake Heritage Center and Museum. “I do a little bit of everything to make the museum run smoothly, plan our events, and write and design our exhibits. A few exhibits I’ve worked on have won awards, including an Illinois State Historical Society award, an Illinois Association of Museums award, and two American Association of State and Local History awards. To brag just a little bit, since I started working here, the Grayslake Heritage Center and Museum has had its two best attendance years to date once we reached our full staff of three,” Brethorst shared

However, Brethorst’s journey was filled with challenge and change before reaching her current position. “When I first started at UIS, I was convinced I wanted to be an English teacher. One of my honors courses took us on a field trip to the Dana-Thomas House. After volunteering for a summer at the Dana-Thomas House, I realized I could actually work in a museum setting. My first history class was with Dr. Owen, and it was early in that class that I confirmed I had made the right choice in switching my major.”

Furthermore, Brethorst reveals that her academic experience was enriched by her activities outside the classroom, such as internships and volunteer opportunities. Her advice to current students? Networking! “I always bring up the importance of a network. Going to events, meeting fellow professionals in your area, volunteering at museums and historic sites, and making connections goes so far. While getting my two degrees, I volunteered then later worked at the Dana-Thomas House, worked for Fever River Archaeology on the site of the 1908 Race Riot homes, helped start the Sangamon Experience Museum on UIS campus, and interned at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Almost all of those experiences would not have happened if I had not reached out to see what I could help with in any capacity.”

Congratulations, Katie, on your remarkable accomplishments and your induction into the first-ever class of The Promising Prairie Star Recognition Program!