Get to know a little about Katie Wilson, one of the core team members of the National Center on Restorative Justice!
What is your work at the National Center on Restorative Justice?
I help oversee the National Restorative Coaching Program. I communicate with our restorative coaching team and connect new practitioners with coaches who most align with their coaching needs. I also collaborate with the NCORJ team on annual retreat programming for all graduates of our programs. I am a member of the University of San Diego community and work in USD’s Center for Restorative Justice.
What has been the most rewarding experience you’ve had working in restorative justice so far?
For the past several years, leading restorative community building circles in the women’s jail in my local community has been extremely rewarding. Having the opportunity to create and cultivate a safe space for circle participants to feel seen, heard and known has been life-giving to me as a facilitator.
What do you think is the biggest misconception about restorative justice, and how do you address it in your work?
I have heard people say that restorative justice is the “easy way out” for people who cause harm. I work to change this misconception, and educate others on the courage and bravery that it takes all involved participants to sit in a restorative circle or conference.
What is a movie, book, or TV show that you love and would point someone to as a good example of restorative justice practice or values?
I love the book “Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion” by Fr. Greg Boyle. This book chronicles Boyle’s work as the founder of Homeboy Industries, working to heal and rehabilitate former gang members in East Los Angeles. Fr. Boyle leads by example, showcasing his restorative justice values in every interaction. I have had the opportunity to visit Homeboy Industries and meet with participants who have been positively impacted by this life changing organization.
How would you describe restorative justice in five words or less?
Healing and growth for all.
When you’re not at work, what is something you like to do that brings you joy and fills your cup?
My three young children keep me very busy, and I love spending time outdoors with them. A quick trip to the beach, or a morning spent hiking always fills my cup.
If you could instantly learn a new skill, what skill would you choose and how would you use it?
If I could instantly have a new skill, I would love to be fluent in every language, so that when I travel, I could easily have authentic and meaningful conversations with every person I meet.
Katie Wilson (she/her) serves as Project Coordinator at the University of San Diego Center for Restorative Justice. In this supportive role, Katie collaborates on a national level with RJ colleagues, specifically working to connect restorative coaches and practitioners within the National Restorative Coaching Program.
Katie has in-depth direct experience serving community members on the margins, specifically people experiencing homelessness, youth in the foster care system, teens on probation, and women in the carceral system. Most recently, Katie led cultural justice immersions both domestically and internationally at the high school level.
Katie has facilitated restorative justice circles both in K-12 education and the carceral system, and has seen the power of the restorative process firsthand. Her ongoing goal is to work to create a more empathetic, compassionate and inclusive global community. Katie is a graduate of the Restorative Justice Facilitation and Leadership Certificate, holds a BA in Interpersonal Communication Studies from the University of San Diego, and a MA in Therapeutic Adventure Education with an emphasis in Service Learning from Prescott College.