About Me
Hello, I’m Kate!
Philadelphia-based researcher (PhD) and product designer
Headshot by Cassandra Panek
My eyes light up when I see a complex system. As a certified Object Oriented UX Strategist, I love detecting patterns, identifying core functions, and arranging them by their common attributes. Yes, I am the one who wants to pack the trunk and organize all the camping gear!
My core drive is to build digital tools that give people an easy, dignified day-to-day life. Many people still don’t have functional apps and websites to help them manage basic resources. I want to give the best of usability to the people who need its benefits the most.
Over 15+ years in education, editing, libraries, and research for social good, I honed exceptional skills in flexible, diplomatic communication. Now, in Agile product environments, I foster key relationships that survive rough patches and make projects happen.
I’m a curious sponge and I’m always learning. When I’m not mapping systems or iterating designs, I’m in a dance class, volunteering, or creating aerial theater. I love visiting mountains and deserts in my home state of Colorado, and I’m a big fan of Philly’s unique performing arts scene.
Testimonials
“Kate is an organizational wizard who is able to take all the disparate pieces and put them together in a meaningful way that is relevant to the work at hand.”
— Mina Kim, Independent Consultant
Culture + Community + Impact
Peer Project Director
“We were so impressed by your clarity of thought, the focus you brought for what we need to accomplish next. You helped us land successfully in a next phase.”
— Dr. Koko Warner, Director
United Nations Migration Global Data Institute
Former Client