Margaret Monahan

Name: Margaret Monahan

Induction Year: 2019

Category: Career Achievement in Support

Bio: In 2003, the KFM Cancer Classic was set to move to Chicago and a significant increase in participation awaited.  Upon hearing concern of how to handle the growing event, Margaret, at her own suggestion, recruited her ‘A’ team of friends who would then spearhead a decade of efficient and positive experiences at KFM.  For her own part, registrants could count on Margaret to give an energetic and enthusiastic welcome to each event.  Her friend circles and acquaintances knew no bounds and it was evident at the Classic where she delivered volunteers, participants, and a positive experience annually.  Margaret was also one of only 3 people who had participated in each and every one of the first 10 Classics.  You could also argue that by the way in which she lived her life, she subtly inspired the creation of the KFM Cancer Classic and its spirit of giving back. 

Personal: Margaret was born in Albuquerque, N.M., in 1965 and graduated from Arcola High School in 1983 and from St. Mary's College in 1987. She earned a master of social work degree from the University of Illinois Chicago in 1992 and for nearly 30 years provided crisis intervention and counseling to abused and neglected children at Catholic Charities.  In 2012, Margaret was awarded the Humanitas Award from SMC. 

At an undetermined time, likely in Margaret’s youth, Margaret was found to be the source of an infectious laugh, a condition that was never cured. 

Margaret was a traveler, chef, wordsmith, curator of friendships, and could pep up and bond with the least expecting.  Margaret passed away in March of 2017 but a scholarship at her alma mater and the memories of so many live on to help others.