Katie grew up in north-eastern Pennsylvania and graduated with two BAs in English and Communications from East Stroudsburg University. She then attended graduate school at the University of Pittsburgh, where she earned her M.Ed. in Higher Education Management. One of her first roles was working with first-generation community college students from rural areas, where she helped them navigate the admissions process and the first year of college. A few years later, she began working for the University of Pittsburgh on its communications and marketing team. Most recently, Katie comes from the CDC Foundation, where she oversaw social and digital storytelling to educate and bring awareness to public health efforts.

As a first-generation college student herself, Katie is passionate about public education and helping others access it. When she’s not working, Katie enjoys being outdoors with her two rescue dogs, dissecting movies and pop culture with her partner and friends, and running around Pittsburgh with her local run club.