The Thrive Ladies Luncheon, sponsored by the White House Area Chamber of Commerce, usually packs in a few surprises for the attendees. 

This year's recipient of Thrive Woman of the Year, however, was a shock to no one.  

Katie Sizemore is a lot of things to a lot of people. 

Most know Katie as Officer Sizemore with the White House Police Department, keeping our community safe while extending a helping hand to those who need it. Others know her as Miss Katie who, among other things, lent her above-average dancing ability to Vacation Bible School at Temple Baptist Church this summer. Others still know her as Kason and Kameron’s mom, balancing all the extras that come along with the title. 

 Even under the weight of all those hats, Katie still strives to be even more, developing quite a fan club in the process.  

 The Woman of the Year award was passed on by last year's beneficiary, Jill Kelly-Oden who, by all accounts, seems to be a card-carrying member of the club herself. 

 “Before I tell you the recipient, I’d like to share some words used by those who nominated her to describe her," said Jill during her speech. “Passionate, protective, a leader, a person of integrity, courageous, giving, strong, motivating, caring, kind and humble.”

Katie is the kind of person who isn’t just born into who they are, they are molded by life experiences that affect their every choice. Growing up in East Nashville, her experiences with police officers as a child led her to pursue a career in law enforcement. 

“My upbringing was a little different.” Katie says. “The police officers I encountered were always so kind and loving to me. They encouraged me to overcome some pretty big obstacles.”

In 2007, she married Scott and started building the life she wanted to live. Her in-laws, Debbie and Donnie Sizemore, took Katie into their family with open arms AND an open bible.

“Scott’s parents have been a huge influence on who I am,” says Katie. “They were very involved in church, and that made an impact.” 

Before deciding to pursue law enforcement, Katie worked for her in-laws in the family business. 

“One of the things I admire most about Katie is how she doesn’t just wait for a need to arise to be helpful,” says Debbie. ”If she sees something that needs to be done for someone, she doesn’t wait for someone else to do it. She takes action herself to make things happen. She is also a great mother, wife, daughter-in-law and friend. You can count on her anytime to be there for you.” 

Debbie recalls one particular time that sums up Katie’s character. 

“I remember seeing on Facebook about a year ago a comment from someone who said they were walking in the heat and felt extremely thirsty; the next thing they knew, there was a White House police officer giving them cold water and telling them to make sure they stay hydrated,” Debbie says. “I knew when I read that comment it was Katie, and when I called and asked her she of course said yes. This person didn’t ask for help. They weren’t distraught in any way. I’m sure hundreds of people had driven past this person, but Katie saw an opportunity to show kindness and that she cared about a complete stranger.”

 Katie credits her husband for always joining her to lend a helping hand. 

“He always supports my crazy schemes,” laughs Katie. ”I just try to do good and stay busy. It helps me stay sober.” 

Her sobriety journey began years ago – in a moment straight from God – when she realized that drinking was keeping her from fully participating in her own life. 

“I use my own struggles to help people where I can,” says Katie. “I’m not afraid to talk to anyone about it. I never take anyone in without trying to encourage them. I’ve prayed with a few as well.” 

In addition to her day job, Katie also runs a REFIT program, helping women work toward their fitness goals in a safe, community-oriented environment. 

“I’m really proud of my work with REFIT,” Katie says. “It brings me so much joy and spreads real positive energy.” 

Katie’s family joined Temple Baptist Church in 2018 and is always quick to volunteer for any need, no matter how big or small. For this reason (among others), Temple Children’s Director, Becky Jenkins, is also a member of the Katie Sizemore fan club.  

“She shares her story in a way that brings honor and glory to the Lord, not to glorify herself or what she’s been through,” says Becky. “Katie and her husband are the first to offer help, whether it’s a family in need or a chore that needs to be done. She exemplifies the term ‘servant heart’ and would be the last to want recognition.”

 Ever humble, Katie says all the attention she’s getting is a little “crazy.”  

“I try to help out where I can,” she says. “I want kids who grow up in the middle of struggles to know there’s hope. I want to be encouraging to those battling addictions. I just want to help.”

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Click here for more information on the White House Police Department--the place Katie chooses to represent with a badge. Why not consider joining Katie? The WHPD is currently filling officer positions. (The benefits are pretty amazing!)