Meet Kathryn Willis
The Waco native, Baylor student, and bear
trainer behind The Bear Sisters of Baylor.
Rooted in Waco and Baylor
Kathryn Willis is a proud Waco native and a student at Baylor University, where she is majoring in Special Education. Her connection to Baylor reaches beyond the classroom through her active membership in the Baylor Chamber of Commerce. Surrounded by the university’s traditions, students, and live bear ambassadors, Kathryn found a story that joined her love of education with a meaningful part of campus life. The Bear Sisters of Baylor grew from that personal connection to her hometown, university, and the animals in her care.
Teaching Through Story
Kathryn’s studies in Special Education have shaped her interest in creating stories that children can enjoy while learning something meaningful. In The Bear Sisters of Baylor, she combines a gentle friendship story with approachable facts about American black bears, animal behavior, enrichment, and conservation. Children first see Indy and Belle swimming, climbing, exploring, and searching for treats. They can then connect those adventures to information about how black bears live and how trained caretakers support their health. Kathryn wants young readers to leave the book with greater curiosity, kindness, and respect for animals.
Caring for Indy and Belle
Kathryn serves as a Lead Trainer at the Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat, where she helps care for Judge Indy and Judge Belle. Her responsibilities include supporting their daily health, enrichment, training, and activity. Working closely with the sisters has allowed her to understand their individual personalities, habits, and favorite ways to spend their time. That firsthand knowledge shaped the details throughout The Bear Sisters of Baylor and helped Kathryn present Indy and Belle as the curious, playful, and distinct bears they truly are
Why Kathryn Wrote the Book
Kathryn wrote The Bear Sisters of Baylor to introduce young readers to Baylor’s real bear ambassadors and the people who care for them. She wanted children to experience Indy and Belle’s playful bond while learning that responsible animal care requires patience, knowledge, consistency, and respect. The book also recognizes the Baylor Chamber of Commerce students, trained staff, veterinarians, and supporters who help the sisters thrive. Through the story, Kathryn shares a Baylor tradition with a new generation while encouraging friendship, conservation, curiosity, and kindness toward animals.
Readers Reviews
Readers Love the Bear Sisters
Families and young readers share their thoughts on the friendship, charm, and joyful adventures found in The Bear Sisters of Baylor.
“A sweet introduction to Judge Indy and Judge Belle. The story captures their different personalities while celebrating the friendship that makes every part of their day more enjoyable.”
“The combination of storytelling and real bear facts makes this a wonderful choice for home or classroom reading. Children enjoy the adventure while learning about wildlife care.”
“The familiar Baylor setting makes this book especially meaningful. It offers families a lovely way to share the university’s bear tradition with a new generation.”
“Indy and Belle’s swimming, climbing, and search for hidden treats keep the story moving, while the educational pages give children plenty of interesting facts to remember.”