In January 2019, THE Market was founded where Katie is bringing Market vendors, makers and curators into one common location for a year round marketplace focused on strengthening local small businesses. Ms. Thompson believes in the strength of community and THE Market defines this strength; businesses supporting each other to elevate each other's potential.  A graduate of Western Illinois University (Bachelor of Business Management) and Lewis University (Master of Arts: Organizational Leadership and Coaching), she believes in the power of education. To stay fresh and "alive" Katie volunteers for Spring Forward Learning Center for the GIRL Squad (Girls Inspiring Real Leadership) program that she created in 2018