Lander University's Alumni Association has selected Greenwood native Kat Laye Finkbeiner as recipient of its Grace Iler Norman Award.
The award is presented to a Lander alumna or alumnus who has shown loyalty and significant achievement within the Alumni Association. It is considered the highest honor bestowed by the Alumni Association and is awarded annually only when a candidate meets the award criteria.
A member of the Lander Class of 1971, Finkbeiner has conveyed her loyalty to her alma mater in a host of ways. In addition to actively supporting the Lander Athletics Bearcat Club, she has served on the Alumni Association Board and is currently serving as co-president of the Greenwood Tower Club, which is designed to build camaraderie among area Lander alumni, current students and prospective students. Her financial support to Lander includes the establishment of the Finkbeiner Athletic Scholarship, which is awarded annually to a student with financial need involved with Lander athletics.
Beyond her financial and leadership support of Lander, Finkbeiner is a staunch supporter and advocate for the university, freely and generously giving of her time and energy for just about any Lander-sponsored event or activity.
A long time physical education teacher and guidance counselor for Greenwood County schools, Finkbeiner retired in 2013 with more than 40 years of service.
She is married to Erwin Finkbeiner. Her daughters, Katie Finkbeiner Engram and Anna Finkbeiner Gowan, and their spouses, Joseph Engram and Will Gowan, are all Lander graduates.