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Katy Verdesoto

verdesoto_katy.jpg“I can imagine that my college career would have had much less direction if it weren’t for the CCO ministry,” says Katy Verdesoto. “I would have focused more on achieving academically than actually learning how to be a Christian nurse. I also would not have had the opportunities to grow in my faith through my discipleship by the Carlin family. My life would be different now in that I probably would not have met my husband, nor would I have chosen a career in the underserved communities of Pittsburgh.”

Kate connected to the CCO’s ministry at Bellefield Presbyterian Church at the beginning of her first year as a student at the University of Pittsburgh. “My older brother was also a member of the ministry, so the transition was an easy one,” she says. “During my involvement in the CCO, I met many lifelong friends, mentors, and my husband. I held various leadership positions in the ministry, including leading a Bible study, leading a discipleship group, and being the administrative assistant to the ministry interns.”

Today, Katy and her husband, Reed, live in Pittsburgh. Katy works as a Community Outreach Nurse, and Reed works for the CCO, reaching out to students at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. They are active members of Allegheny Center Alliance Church, where Katy leads a Bible study for a group of high school students and volunteers in student ministries and other youth activities.

Katy is grateful for the CCO’s ministry at Pitt, and particularly for the Jubilee conference. “At Jubilee, I learned the importance of being a Christian nurse, not simply a nurse who happens to be a Christian,” she says. “The Jubilee conference broadened my perspective of nursing and the opportunities therein. My involvement in the CCO also opened my eyes to many opportunities, such as volunteer projects with organizations like the L.I.V.I.N.G. Ministry, retreats, and spring break trips. Through the CCO, I made the friends I would spend most of my time with throughout my college years.

“If it weren’t for the CCO ministry, I would not have chosen the career path I chose, nor would I have the values I currently hold. Each decision I make, from the day-to-day to major life events, is governed by my faith. Because of my faith, I have chosen a career in the underserved neighborhoods of Pittsburgh, I choose to shop justly, and I decide each morning to love everyone I come in contact with, regardless of race or social status. I share my faith on a daily basis with my family, neighbors and patients. I am involved in my community, both as a nurse and a neighbor. I attend community meetings, support local business, and am a medical resource for my neighbors.”

Katy believes there is a direct correlation between her involvement with the CCO’s ministry and how she lives her life today. “The CCO influenced my career choice, as well where I have chosen to live, who I have chosen to marry, and how I choose to spend my free time. The CCO inspired me to be conscientious about the everyday choices I make, considering the impact on others, not just the convenience for myself.”