After 31 yrs teaching K-8 in the Southwest and the United Kingdom, Kay completed a doctorate with Fielding Graduate University focusing on school reform and the building and maintenance of inclusive school communities. In 2010 she accepted a position at Ft. Lewis College teaching science methods and arts integration. For the following 11 years (now mostly retired!) she was a strong advocate for place-based, immersive education who greatly valued partnerships with MSI.

As a Colorado Native, Kay began mountain climbing with her father at age 9. She continues to be an avid hiker and birder. Her passion for organic gardening led her to work closely with the Montezuma School to Farm Project and, as a daughter of Native Art collectors Bill and Sue Hensler, she also works closely with the Center of SW Studies board, advocating for the arts as a means of preserving cultural and personal identity.

Kay claims that her love for her family, friends, and dogs is her ticket to resilience - along with solitude and restorative healing found in Colorado mountains.