2021 Tillman Scholar Spotlight: Public Service

Welcome back to the 2021 Tillman Scholars Spotlight! Each week, we highlight a few of the remarkable veterans and military spouses from our 2021 scholar class! These 60 individuals continue to embrace service beyond self in a variety of fields, from diversity and inclusion to medical breakthroughs, to make an impact and create a better tomorrow.

Today, we’re focusing on scholars pursuing careers in public service. With the values of Pat Tillman instilled in them and through leadership development, scholarships, and the support of a global community, they’re furthering their capabilities to become leaders in their individual impact areas.

Chris Sawyers, Western Kentucky University

“I AM BUILDING MY ACADEMIC ARSENAL TO FIGHT FOR FOSTERED YOUTH. THROUGH DATA-INFORMED POLICY INTERVENTION, I WILL IMPROVE CHILD WELFARE IN KENTUCKY, WHICH LEADS THE NATION IN RATES OF ABUSE AND NEGLECT.”

After graduating from Western Kentucky University, Chris will pursue a law degree focused on providing the help he once desperately needed to those who still do. Through military service, Chris transformed the qualities that he previously used for survival into sharpened leadership skills that he will now use to fight for disadvantaged youth. Combining personal motivation, leadership experience and quality education, he will answer the call of one of our country’s most vulnerable populations in his beloved home state of Kentucky.

Natalie McCabe, Simmons University

“IT’S OK TO DREAM, BUT YOU BETTER WORK FOR IT TOO. LET’S DO IT TOGETHER.”

Natalie’s journey to obtain higher education and professional success has been both challenging and rewarding. She wanted to help others navigate obstacles just as she has. Social work has offered her the opportunity and means to address life’s challenges both positively and productively. Natalie is a strong advocate of mental wellness, walking in one’s purpose, and reaching back to help others. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in social work with a concentration in leadership andorganization. Outside of work, Natalie volunteers and provides mentorship for young women facing adversity.

Kate Logan, George Washington University

“PEOPLE APPRECIATE AUTHENTICITY. DON’T BORE THEM WITH PERFECTION.”

In 2016 Kate was recognized as one of Oakland County’s “Elite 40 under 40”, and in 2018 she was elected as a councilwoman in her hometown in Michigan. Kate is pursuing a master’s degree in strategic public relations at the George Washington University and currently works as the strategic communications specialist for the United States Vietnam War Commemoration, under the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

Lindsey Erdmann, University of Minnesota

“EVERYONE HAS A RIGHT TO SAFE HOUSING. I WILL LEAD AND CO-CREATE EQUITABLE, COMMUNITY-CENTERED HOUSING POLICIES, SO THAT ALL MINNESOTANS HAVE STABILITY AND CAN CULTIVATE POSITIVE CHANGE IN THEIR LIVES.”

Drawing parallels between the marginalization of women in the military and other oppressed communities, Lindsey knows that intersectional policies and systems are vital components for creating environments for all people and communities to thrive. Lindsey will pursue a master’s of public policy and a minor in integrative leadership at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota. Her goal is to continue making an impact with a career in public service by better understanding the social, political, and economic systems that drive housing inequality in order to develop sustainable, community-centered housing solutions to end housing insecurity in her community.