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Kathryn Harris
Resilient, Refined, High-Spirited, Changemaker - Chief Operating Officer, Activate Work
Professional Background
Kathryn Harris is a strategic visionary with nearly two decades of leadership experience in the philanthropic and non-profit sectors. Her dynamic approach includes a combination of strategic planning, business development, and operational management which has significantly benefitted the organizations she has led. With a career spanning over 24 years, Kathryn has accumulated a wealth of knowledge in leveraging human capital and financial management to surpass organizational goals and expectations.
Currently, she serves as the Chief Operating Officer at ActivateIT Powered by Per Scholas; Activate Work, where she utilizes her extensive experience in operational oversight to enhance the effectiveness of IT workforce development programs. Kathryn has also made significant contributions in previous roles, including her time as the Chief Operating Officer at Bright by Three, where she was instrumental in scaling organizational impact and outreach.
As the former President & CEO at Qualistar Colorado, Kathryn demonstrated her ability to lead complex organizations through periods of change and growth, nurturing high-performing teams that drive results. Additionally, her leadership as the Director of Development at both Generation Schools Network and Rose Community Foundation showcased her prowess in building donor relationships and raising essential funds for critical programs.
Her dedication to fostering inclusive economies is highlighted by her role as a former founding board member at Colorado Inclusive Economy, where she championed initiatives aimed at expanding economic opportunities for all members of the community. This commitment to social equity is a hallmark of Kathryn's leadership style, emphasizing her strategic thinking and proactive approach to problem-solving.
Education and Achievements
Kathryn’s academic background complements her rich professional experience. She is pursuing a Master of Arts degree in Administrative Leadership and Policy Studies at the University of Colorado Denver, which further amplifies her competencies in leadership and policy formulation. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics, along with a minor in Art History, from Middlebury College, laying a strong foundation for her analytical skills and strategic insight into diverse fields.
Throughout her career, Kathryn has excelled in various specialties including financial management, strategic planning, business development, and project management. Her expertise in creating high-performing teams facilitates maximum productivity and operational efficiency, which have been key drivers of success in her leadership roles. Her analytical prowess is coupled with exceptional communication skills, enabling her to engage effectively with stakeholders, board members, and community leaders to achieve common goals.
Notable Achievements
Kathryn Harris's impressive career is peppered with notable achievements. Her strategic oversight in fundraising campaigns and special events has led to significant increases in revenue for the organizations she has worked with. This includes her innovative approach to donor development and recognition, ensuring that contributors feel valued and acknowledged. Her experience in grant writing and program management has also garnered substantial resources for various initiatives aimed at improving community outcomes.
Her leadership has been recognized through various channels, and she has played an integral role in developing organizational capacities through mergers and acquisitions, further emphasizing her strategic foresight and understanding of the industry landscape. Kathryn Harris is not just a leader but a mentor whose influence extends beyond her immediate role, empowering others to grow and succeed alongside her.
In summary, Kathryn Harris is a distinguished leader with an unwavering commitment to enhancing the non-profit sector. Her strategic thinking, leadership experience, and deep understanding of philanthropic efforts exemplify her dedication to making a positive impact in her community.
