.jpg)
Meet Peer Minister, Katie Hatzis
Hometown: Farmdale, Ohio
Area of Study: PhD in Chemistry
Future Plans: Become a professor in academia, teach students, and lead a research group
Katie Hatzis, a peer minister at Wesley, has brought her passion for education, community, and service to every aspect of her role. A PhD candidate in chemistry, Katie’s journey to Wesley began with her Methodist upbringing. “I grew up in a joint Methodist church in my hometown,” she shares. “When I came to the University of Illinois, transitioning to Wesley just felt right. It was the first time I attended church with students around my age, and it’s been such a meaningful experience.”
Wesley: A Place of Support and Growth
For Katie, Wesley has been a refuge amid the challenges of graduate school. “Not everything goes right in my department or in the lab,” she admits. “It’s awesome to have a place to go when you need to step away. If something isn’t going well, I always have someone to talk to here. It’s a safe place in the midst of all the craziness.”
Midway through her PhD program, Katie began teaching Wesley’s ESL (English as a Second Language) class, a role that has become a cornerstone of her ministry. “ESL was something I did during undergrad at Kent State, and I have a passion for language,” she explains. “Even if my experiments aren’t going well, I know I’m helping people and making a difference in their lives. It’s been a huge motivator and outlet for me.”
Her impact extends far beyond teaching language skills. “One student couldn’t read his professor’s notes written in cursive, so I rewrote them in script for him. Another didn’t have winter boots, so I took her to Kohl’s and used my Kohl’s cash to buy her a pair. It’s about filling in the gaps and helping people not just with language but with their daily needs.”
Building Community Through ESL and Coffeehouse
Katie leads Wesley’s ESL class as an all-levels opportunity for language learning and cultural connection. “We choose topics that help students navigate life in America,” she says. Recent lessons have included everything from American holiday traditions to sports and local customs. Lessons are often paired with activities, such as visiting Curtis Orchard after learning about apple orchards or attending a football game after discussing the sport.
Beyond the classroom, Katie facilitates the International Coffeehouse, a weekly social gathering where conversation flows over coffee, snacks, and board games. “The Coffeehouse is all about community building,” she explains. “Some of our participants might not leave the house all week except to come here. This space gives them friends, connections, and a sense of belonging.”
Looking Ahead
Katie is excited about the future of Wesley, particularly its growing Midweek ministry and the potential for the ESL program to expand. “I hope we can continue building community and friendships through ESL and grow our name in the community as a place to go for help,” she says.
She also reflects on the importance of Wesley’s identity. “It’s not just about teaching skills. Building community is at the heart of what Wesley does. This work has touched so many lives—including mine—and I’m so proud to be part of it.”
Katie’s leadership and dedication to service exemplify the mission of Wesley, creating a welcoming and transformative space for all. Whether through teaching, community building, or simply offering a listening ear, Katie’s impact is felt by everyone she encounters.
Comments