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Kate Schnurr
Senior Manager, Coaching Services at Guild Education
Professional Background
Kate Schnurr, M.Ed., ACC, CPCC, is a dynamic and creative professional with an extensive background in people and project management, along with a wealth of experience in student services, hiring, training, and event management. Kate’s career is characterized by her commitment to fostering collaborative environments where customer service and individual connection are prioritized. Her versatile approach allows her to thrive in fast-paced settings, adapting gracefully to change and uncertainty.
Currently, Kate serves as the Senior Manager of Coaching Services at Guild Education. In this pivotal role, she continues to harness her expertise by leading a dedicated team that emphasizes the importance of individualized coaching for students and professionals. Her tenure at Guild Education has been notable, marked by her ascent through various leadership positions including Senior Manager and Manager of Student Success, where she significantly contributed to student support initiatives that have had a notable impact on learner outcomes.
Prior to her time at Guild Education, Kate co-owned and directed operations for Pinot's Palette, where she infused her passion for creativity with her business acumen, providing a unique blend of artistic experiences and exceptional customer service. She has also held the role of Interim Director of Residential Programs at Pacific Lutheran University, showcasing her versatility in adapting to various educational environments.
In addition to her experience in educational settings, Kate has worked as a Development Coordinator for F12 Voyage at Semester At Sea, and has contributed to student affairs as a Resident Director at Pacific Lutheran University and Semester At Sea. Moreover, Kate has served on planning committees for significant events such as The Placement Exchange, further solidifying her role as a dedicated professional in higher education.
Education and Achievements
Kate is a proud alumna of Creighton University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Public Relations. This educational foundation has equipped her with essential communication and storytelling skills that enhance her professional interactions and strategies. She further advanced her qualifications by obtaining a Master of Education degree in Higher Education Administration from Iowa State University, demonstrating her commitment to professional growth and her profound understanding of the educational landscape.
Her educational journey has not only molded her career path but has also enriched her insight into student development, allowing her to tailor support systems that resonate with diverse student needs.
Achievements
In her extensive career, Kate has garnered numerous accolades, not just for her individual contributions but also for her remarkable capacity to uplift and motivate teams. Her role in student success initiatives at Guild Education has been particularly impactful, as she has pioneered programs aimed at enhancing student persistence and satisfaction. Additionally, her facilitation skills have been honed through years of experience in presenting, coaching, and training, empowering her to effectively translate complex concepts into actionable insights for her teams and clients.
With her authentic relationship-building skills, Kate is known for mentoring new employees and guiding them through their professional journeys. Her experience as a seasoned facilitator shines through in her ability to cultivate learning environments that encourage growth and innovation. Kate’s dedication to fostering an authentic and supportive atmosphere is matched by her passion for coaching, allowing her to inspire others to reach their full potential.
As a member of various organizations and committees related to student affairs, Kate remains actively engaged in improving educational experiences for students, showcasing her commitment not only to her professional growth but also to the advancement of the educational sector as a whole. Her diverse skill set and unwavering commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset wherever she contributes.
Highlights
Recently, I reconnected with a former manager/mentor after (far too) many years. In our conversation she asked me if I still laughed as much as I used to when we worked together.
Her question resonated deeply, and completely halted my brain. I felt my eyes get a little damp as I realized how often I had NOT been laughing. 🙁
As I continue to reflect on this, I recognize how tough it can be to find reasons to laugh, particularly with the state of the world, how humans are treating one another, the devastation, stress, famine, diseases, relationship/family challenges, grief, layoffs, and so much more that surrounds us daily. There’s a lot out there that isn’t funny.
This single question ignited a 💥 spark 💥 in me that had been smoldering for awhile, to finally get trained as a Laughter Yoga instructor!
Ever since I hired someone to lead a session for a team of stressed out RA’s while working at PLU (shout out if you're reading this) I've thought about this as one small way I might bring some extra laughter 🤣 & joy into the world, because dang… we sure could use some!
Laughter Yoga is:
- a hilariously good time (but not sparked by something funny)
- a practice that combines deep breathing techniques and laughter exercises
- a way to get major health benefits, with quick results
I am so excited to share it with you in a 🙌 FREE mini-session 🙌 .
You should come try it if you’re even a little bit curious! 🧐
This session is for you if you’d like a little release from feeling stressed, burned out, isolated, lonely, or the weight of the world on your shoulders.
It’s also for you if just want a fun break in your day to recharge! ⚡
DM me for more info and an invitation to the upcoming workshop!
*No experience or equipment is needed and all are welcome.
