Cathryn Linney, Raytown South High School, Class of 1992
Cathryn Linney graduated with honors from Raytown South High School in 1991. She then attended Washington University in St. Louis where she pursued a major in Biology with a minor in Psychology. While at Washington University, Cathryn was awarded two consecutive Howard Hughes Fellowships to work on the Human Genome Project. It was the first international effort of its kind to map the human genome in its entirety. She also volunteered with Student Services, Habitat for Humanity, and Barnes-Jewish Hospital.
After graduating with honors, Cathryn worked at Cerner Corporation, a healthcare software company based in Kansas City. She achieved Millenium Club status and was named a Cerner “Top Gun” in Client Relationship management. Cathryn was selected to lead the first Cerner Sales Leadership program at corporate offices. While at Cerner, Cathryn completed her masters in marketing from the University of Kansas.
In 2006, Cathryn founded Newborns in Need, Inc. of Kansas City after seeing it spotlighted on the Oprah Winfrey Show. She serves as President of the non-profit organization which provides basic baby essentials to local infants in crisis. By 2018, Newborns in Need, Inc. of Kansas City had delivered over 100,000 baby items and was acknowledged by the Kansas City Star, 435 South Magazine and most recently, Fox 4 News.
A strong believer in giving back, Cathryn extended her community outreach work to include serving on the K.C. Crusaders Board, a charity that supports local businesses and non-profits through professional golf events. In addition, she sponsors the fundraising efforts of Youthfront, a non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of children. Her other philanthropic involvement includes the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Stowers Institute, Compassion International, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and The First Tee of Greater K.C.
In the Blue Valley School District, Cathryn serves on the Parent Advocates for Gifted Education Board. She chairs their annual district-wide Robotics Share Fair for 5th graders. Cathryn is involved with the Blue Valley Parent Teacher Organization and is an advocate for gun reform legislation as well as increased safety in area schools.
Cathryn has been married to Jay Linney for 17 years and adores their three beautiful children, Ryan, Reid, and Anna. She enjoys traveling with her family. Her hobbies include family fishing, golf, tennis, and walks in the park with the family Goldendoodle, Jewel. Cathryn’s love of country music led her to become a booking agent for local and regional artists, including The Voice Stars. Cathryn and her family are members of the Church of Resurrection and serve in local ministry together.
