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During a time of lockdown, uncertainty and fear, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Kathryn Carter returned to an early love in order to help build on the sense of community, offer encouragement and discuss preventative health measures. 

The livecast “Friday Night Live with Kat Carter” that began in May 2020 earned Carter the NAACP Edwardsville Branch’s Community Service Award, which she received during its 56^th Freedom Fund Gala on Sunday, June 6. Carter is an anatomy instructor in the Department of Growth, Development and Structure at the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) in Alton and an SIUE Black Faculty Staff Association (BFSA) incoming board member. 

“I worked for more than 15 years in radio broadcasting. I left my radio career and returned to school to complete my education in biological sciences,” explained Carter.  “Although I currently teach, I have never lost my love for radio. I just didn’t know how science and radio would come together. Last year because of the pandemic, I did a Facebook Live birthday party. It turned out to be a great success, and it rekindled my passion for radio. 

“The COVID pandemic has saturated the atmosphere with fear of the unknown and depression. Many families have suffered financial deficits, such as the loss of jobs and homes. Some people have lost loved ones. I began thinking, ‘What can I do to help and encourage people?’ This inspired me to create this show.” 

“Friday Night Live’s” purpose is to inform, innovate and inspire viewers. The platform is designed to uplift, heal and encourage the audience in a positive atmosphere. 

“The livecast includes an encouragement corner, live music performances, community business spotlights, and a “Preventative Measures” segment,” said Carter. “This segment features medical professionals covering topics such as the COVID-19 vaccine, diabetes and sexual assault awareness, just to name a few. I have always believed that it’s important to care and encourage people not to give up or lose hope, especially now with the heartaches produced by COVID-19.” 

According to NAACP Edwardsville President Walter D. Williams, the award criteria included: community outreach, effectiveness in addressing equity and diversity issues, be of good standing within the community, viewed as a role model in personal and professional life, and the ability to communicate the values of the NAACP. 

“Ms. Carter is passionate, authentic and believes in what she is doing,” said Williams. “Because Ms. Carter is authentic and well-received by her audience, she has a platform where she can enlighten, inspire and encourage her audience to do the ‘right things’ for themselves and others. When I listen to the program, it’s like I’m sitting on my grandma’s lap being taught something that will help me, educate me and keep me out of trouble.   

“Ms. Carter is successful because of her grasp of the subject matter. She is an expert in many areas. She has several thousand views, and her following is a testament to her genuineness as a person.” 

Photo:
Kathryn Carter, anatomy instructor in the Department of Growth, Development and Structure at SIU School of Dental Medicine in Alton and SIUE Black Faculty Staff Association incoming board member, won the NAACP Edwardsville’s Community Service Award.