A legacy of lifelong learning, global service, and heartfelt connection came full circle at this year’s graduation as Kathryn M. Kolasa ’67, PhD, RDN, LDN was honored as the 2025 Distinguished Alumna. A pioneering voice in the field of nutrition and a passionate educator, Dr. Kolasa embodies the Marian spirit of service, scholarship, and sisterhood. 

Dr. Kolasa offered this year’s graduates a glimpse into a career—and a life—defined by resilience, purpose, and joy. She recalled the enduring power of Marian friendships, sharing how reconnecting with classmates at their 50th reunion blossomed into a cherished support system of weekly Zoom calls, laughter, and shared strength during the pandemic. “If I had to choose one word that defines our Marian group now,” she said, “it’s resilience… the ability to grow, to adapt, to be fully present even as the years bring change.” 

Dr. Kolasa earned her bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and completed her Ph.D. in Food Science at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Her early faculty role at Michigan State launched a remarkable academic and professional journey that would take her across the country—and around the world. At East Carolina University, she served as Chair of the Human Nutrition and Hospitality Management Department and later held appointments in both Family Medicine and Pediatrics at the Brody School of Medicine. From 2004 to 2020, she consulted for Vidant Health, a nine-hospital system in eastern North Carolina. Her leadership helped shape initiatives in childhood obesity prevention and community food literacy, including programs that reached free clinics, schools, shelters, and food assistance offices. 

Her impact is felt both nationally and internationally, with work in more than 20 countries, a prolific body of published work, and leadership in crafting public policy and educational tools for healthy living. She has been honored with numerous awards, including the Dannon Institute Award for Excellence in Medical/Dental Nutrition Education and the American Dietetic Association’s Medallion Award for outstanding service to the profession. 

Committed to fostering the next generation of scientific leaders, Dr. Kolasa and her husband, Patrick N. Kelly, established the Kolasa Kelly Science Scholarship in 2017. This annual award recognizes a Marian sophomore who excels in mathematics and science and demonstrates outstanding community service. To date, nine students have been honored as scholarship recipients—young women whose promise and passion reflect Dr. Kolasa’s own enduring values. 

Throughout her career, Dr. Kolasa has blended science and compassion—bridging academia, healthcare, and grassroots outreach. She continues to volunteer as an affiliate faculty member at The Brody School of Medicine, mentor emerging professionals, and share nutrition insights through her long-running column in The Daily Reflector of Greenville, NC. 

Dr. Kolasa’s life and work have exemplified the Marian way: to serve, to lead, and to make a difference. Even in retirement, her sense of service endures—now as a sea turtle conservation volunteer. Beneath the stars, helping guide hatchlings to the sea, she finds inspiration in their instinct to survive and thrive. “Be fearless, regardless of the odds you face,” she told graduates. “Stay calm under pressure. Be well-traveled—and importantly, never forget where you came from.” 

The Distinguished Alumna Award is bestowed upon an individual alumna who has distinguished herself and her alma mater. This award can be given for significant accomplishment in business or professional life and/or significant service to church, community, state, or nation in addition to sustained leadership and service to Marian High School. To nominate an alumna, please visit www.marian-hs.org/distinguishedalum.