“Place matters. And we can’t develop people without developing place. And vice versa. My intended goal for my work with MAN is to further refine the people and place based approach to development. My vision is that individuals and families are economically stable and strong, local businesses are vibrant, vacant land is utilized, homeowners outweigh renters and schools are preparing youth for the workforce and cultivating leaders.”

Katy has a longstanding professional history working with youth, individuals, and families. Prior to joining MAN, Katy has worked in youth recreation, the child welfare system, and public policy. Katy began her work with MAN as an intern in the graduate school assisting with the development of the agency’s Economic Development program. After completing her Master’s Degree, she became the Economic Development Program Manager and later a Director with the organization. Throughout her career, Katy has worked with a number of partners including neighborhood residents, elected officials, private foundations, city and county entities, private businesses, local school districts, and universities. Most recently, Katy’s work has shifted to expanding MAN’s economic development activities to provide residents with the tools to achieve economic stability and growth and improve the physical infrastructure of the Del Paso Heights neighborhood. This includes the introduction of new housing development, homeownership for residents, financial education, the reintroduction of a community center, and the development of a sports complex.

Katy holds a Bachelors Degree in Political Science and History from U.C. Davis and a Masters of Social Work from California State University, Sacramento. Notable certifications include Group Facilitation Skills through Community at Work in San Francisco and NeighborWorks Homebuyer Education Facilitator. In addition, Katy is also a graduate of the Sierra Health Foundation’s Health Leadership Program. And is currently a member of the Urban Land Institute.