Local Women Veteran professional to receive national service award

Kathleen O’Loughlin has been named as a 2023 Service to the Citizen Award Winner.

O’Loughlin, a Boson College alum, is currently the Women Veterans Program Manager for the Atlanta VA Health Care System and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30+ years of working in the social work field.

“I have been with the Atlanta VA for 10 years and love my work with the Women’s Program and our incredible team of dedicated women’s health champions,” said O’Loughlin.

According to a statement by the Service to the Citizen Awards, improving the experience that the public and employees have with the government is critical to building trust in the government. Without the dedication and commitment of public servants and their partners, many government services would not be possible.

The statement went on to address why O’Loughlin was selected.

“We are proud to honor excellence in service and the many successes demonstrated this year. You're being recognized for your leadership at the Atlanta VA Health Care System.”

Anne Lord Bailey serves at the director for clinical tech innovation and immersive technology for VHA’s Office of Healthcare Innovation and Learning has seen the outstanding work of O’Loughlin and nominated her for the recognition.

“We have been working closely with Kathleen O’Loughlin and the Atlanta team to develop a virtual reality experience to help prevent sexual harassment. Ms. O’Loughlin’s work to provide specialized care for women Veterans and combat sexual harassment helps foster a space where women can receive the health care, they need to feel protected and supported,” said Bailey.” So far, the Women’s Veterans Health Program has helped to ensure that 230 women Veterans are celebrated in their path to motherhood and that 25,000 women are receiving the health care they need to thrive and live healthy lives. From her work with the program to her idea to use VR as a tool in preventing sexual harassment, Ms. O’Loughlin is creating a culture shift in VA to foster an environment in which everyone feels safe and welcomed. Throughout the course of this work, we’ve come to realize what a powerhouse Kathleen is!”

A reception will be held Friday, September 15th at The Mayflower in Washington, DC to honor the recipients.