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Community Foundation of Marquette County announces 2026 Catalyst Award recipients

MARQUETTE -- The Community Foundation of Marquette County held its annual celebration in September. This year, CFMC celebrated with the theme "Guided by Purpose." Each year as a part of the celebration, CFMC recognizes individuals, businesses and service organizations who go above and beyond to make a difference in their community and inspire others to do the same.

These catalyst awards are given in different categories based on nominations that have been made to the Community Foundation of Marquette County's Board of Trustees.

"Catalyst award recipients have demonstrated a commitment to the Marquette County community through their gifts of time, talent and treasure to help make life better for the people of Marquette County," said the Community Foundation of Marquette County. "They have had a positive impact over a period of time, demonstrate humility in their efforts to improve the Marquette County community and serve to inspire others by their example."

The Community Foundation of Marquette County's 2026 Catalyst Honorees are:

Posthumous Individual Award - Audrey Kaufman

"In honor and memory of Audrey Kaufman, a lifelong champion for children," said CFMC. "Audrey began her career as an elementary school teacher, reflecting an early calling to help children learn, grow, and succeed.

"She served as a board member and active volunteer for Storyteller, a daycare center serving children experiencing homelessness. She was especially proud of initiatives that directly impacted young people, including Coats for Kids, educational programs, youth recreation opportunities, and scholarships that helped children and families throughout the community.

"As a member of the Louis G. Kaufman Endowment Fund Board, Audrey helped support scholarships and countless programs benefiting Marquette-area children."

Business Category - Provisions MQT

"Provisions MQT is a busy coffee shop located on the lakefront in downtown Marquette, and its now-former owner, Jesse Renfors, built the shop into a true community hub," said CMFC. "From supporting local nonprofit organizations to opening its doors as a warming shelter for search teams, Provisions MQT has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving the community.

"Jesse has since passed the torch to current owner Brittany Anderson, who plans to carry forward that same spirit of service and community involvement."

Service Organization Category - Women's Center

"The Women's Center is a vital source of hope, healing, and support for survivors throughout Marquette County," said CMFC. "Guided by its mission to Protect, Educate, Advocate, Counsel and Empower (PEACE), the Women's Center provides compassionate, trauma-informed care through programs including the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program and the Northern Lights Child Advocacy Center.

"In 2025 alone, the organization answered 8,298 calls through its 24/7 support line, provided shelter for 114 adults and children at Harbor House, and delivered supportive services to 479 survivors.

"Through its unwavering dedication to individuals and families in crisis, the Women's Center continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Individual Category - Kitty Kososki

"For more than five decades, Kitty has inspired generations of students as a teacher, coach, counselor, tutor, and mentor," said CMFC.

"She was among the first coaches to support girls' athletics following the passage of Title IX and has dedicated her career to empowering young people both inside and outside the classroom.

"Her impact extends far beyond education. Kitty has championed veterans and their families, worked to increase understanding of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, she's an author, and today continues to create opportunities for adults with disabilities through the Beyond 26 Program.

"Known for her humility and generous spirit, Kitty often speaks not about what she has given to others, but what they have given to her. Through decades of service, learning, and volunteerism, she continues to make a lasting difference in countless lives and serves as an inspiration to all who know her."

Youth Category - Artists in Excellence

"Artists in Excellence is a collaborative program that brings together high school visual art students from across the county, creating opportunities for young artists to connect, learn, and grow," said CMFC.

"Through a partnership between local art educators and the City of Marquette Office of Arts and Culture, the program helps students explore creative careers, build leadership skills, and engage with the region's vibrant arts community.

"Beyond artistic development, students contribute to the community through public art projects, advocacy for arts education, and support of Marquette County's Annual High School Art Show. This year, Artists in Excellence completed its third major public art project, a large outdoor mural centered on the themes of community and reciprocity.

"By fostering creativity, collaboration, and civic engagement, Artists in Excellence is empowering the next generation of artists and community leaders."

"When charitable resources are thoughtfully coordinated at the local level, they can make a meaningful and lasting difference," said CMFC. "It is especially rewarding to support the people and organizations that make such a positive impact every day."