May 2021 - Kathy Casson

An adventurous spirit who’s passionate about scuba diving, dragon boat rowing, and travel among other things, Kathy’s natural optimism and patience have helped her make great achievements in her Spanish studies. Beginning with no Spanish skills four years ago, Kathy and her partner Sheila took on this challenge together and have been dedicated to honing their Spanish skills ever since. Kind and empathetic, Kathy is a fantastic classmate who listens attentively and contributes to creating a comfortable learning enviornment for all. Acting on her interest in using her Spanish skills to do service work, she participated last year in a trip to Guatemala with a group providing dental care and education. Kathy’s endless enthusiasm and curiosity are an inspiration and she is a model of how to live the retired life with purpose and never stop learning. We are honored to count Kathy as part of our community at Tierra and look forward to continuing to see her defy any limits and take on life (and Spanish) with zest.

Name: Kathy Casson
Occupation: Retired
Time Studying at Tierra: 4 years!

1) Why are you studying Spanish?  

"We travel to Mexico each year and we wanted to speak and understand Spanish.  However, as time has passed, we take Spanish at Tierra because we enjoy it.  It has become a pasatiempo."

2) What is your favorite part about your experience here at Tierra?

"I really enjoy getting to know the students and teachers.  I know that a class at Tierra will always include conversation, learning about each other and the language, and fun.  The teachers are terrific."

3) Can you tell us of a time you have been able to use what you have learned studying here?

"In February 2020 I traveled to Guatemala to volunteer with Nuevas Sonrisas.
This Portland group returns each year to schools in Santa Catarina Mita, Guatemala to provide  dental sealants, fluoride, emergency dental care and education to students and parents.
It was a privilege to participate and to be with the  Guatemalan children, and teachers and health workers.  It is motivation to continue studying."

¡Felicidades Kathy!