Kaitlin Coultas

Hometown: Bluffs, IL

Current Location: Springfield, IL

Tell us about your personal and professional journey.

Growing up in a small community shaped my values in lasting ways. In a place where everyone knows each other, you learn the importance of showing up, supporting others, and taking pride in where you’re from. That foundation instilled in me a deep appreciation for connection and service.

When choosing a college, I intentionally looked for a campus that reflected those same qualities. I found that at the University of Illinois Springfield. The close-knit environment allowed me to feel seen and supported, and it gave me the confidence to grow both personally and professionally. I quickly fell in love not only with the campus community but with Springfield as a whole.

During my time at UIS, I became deeply involved in campus life. I was a founding member of Tri Sigma, served as a Student Ambassador giving campus tours to prospective students and families, participated in the Honors Program, and was active in Student Government. I also helped start The Period Club to promote access and awareness on campus. These experiences strengthened my leadership skills and reinforced my commitment to building inclusive, supportive spaces where others feel they belong.

My experiences at UIS solidified my belief that strong communities are built through engagement and care. That sense of belonging continues to guide my professional journey and fuels my desire to give back to the community that shaped me.

Who or what has played a significant role in influencing or mentoring you?

One of the most significant influences in my professional journey has been my current supervisor, Amy Beadle. She has modeled what it truly means to lead with purpose and community at the center. Through her mentorship, I have learned that leadership is not just about managing responsibilities — it is about showing up, building relationships, and investing in the growth of others.

Amy encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and connected me with a network of young leaders who went on to establish RISE Springfield. Because of that introduction, I had the opportunity to help launch the program and serve on its founding executive committee. Being part of building something from the ground up was a transformative experience that strengthened my confidence, collaboration skills, and commitment to civic engagement.

What accomplishments or contributions are you most proud of—professionally or personally?

I am proud of contributions that combine community impact with professional growth. One of my most meaningful achievements was helping launch RISE Springfield, the Chamber of Commerce’s young professionals networking group, where I served on the founding executive committee and helped create a space for emerging leaders to connect and make a difference.

Professionally, I am proud of growing Visit Springfield’s social media channels and being part of the Carvertise campaign, which turned vehicles into mobile ads and earned both the Illinois Governors Conference Award and the Innovation Award from the UMCVB. These experiences reinforced how creative, community-focused strategies can inspire engagement and drive real impact.

What goals, projects, or aspirations are you excited about for the future?

I’m excited to continue finding new ways to give back to Springfield and get involved across the community. I hope to collaborate with local organizations, create meaningful connections, and develop initiatives that leave a lasting impact. Professionally, I want to grow in roles that blend creativity, communication, and community engagement, helping showcase what makes Springfield such a special place while strengthening connections between residents, businesses, and visitors.

What advice would you share with other emerging professionals who want to make an impact in their field or community?

My advice to emerging professionals is to get involved, stay curious, and lead by example. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you — seek them out, whether it’s joining a committee, starting a project, or volunteering in your community. Build relationships, listen, and learn from those around you, because collaboration and mentorship are key to making a lasting impact. Most importantly, remember that meaningful change often starts with showing up.

Outside of work, what activities, interests, or passions keep you inspired and grounded?

Outside of work, I stay inspired through creative projects that connect me with others. I have a following of 80,000+ on Instagram and Tiktok for my @consistencywithkt pages, sharing healthy habits and recipes, and I co-own a baking side hustle with my mom, Pretty Little Cookie Co., making custom royal icing cookies. Both let me combine creativity, family, and entrepreneurship while staying grounded and motivated.