After graduating from Kenyon College in (very rural) Gambier, Ohio, Katie returned to Boston for a master's in school counseling at Suffolk University. There, a fellowship in the undergraduate admissions office sparked an interest in access and equity.

Katie moved to Washington, DC, and worked as an Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at George Washington University for three years, reading nearly 5,000 applications. Katie then became Co-Director of College Counseling at San Domenico School in San Anselmo for four years.

Outside of work, Katie enjoys local food, hiking in the Bay Area, and dogs.