Katie Bates has spent her entire professional career focused on equipping and empowering young people, both in and beyond the classroom. As a communications and development professional, Katie is passionate about amplifying the voices of young people and supporting them in sharing their stories. 

 

Before joining Youth on Record, Katie spent 5 years as a high school social studies educator in Indianapolis, IN. She shifted into the non-profit space, working in communications and strategy at America's Promise Alliance and Chalkbeat. Most recently, she served as interim Executive Director at YVote, focused on civic engagement and advocacy for youth in New York City. Katie holds a B.S. in Secondary Education from Butler University and a M.A. in Sociology & Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. 

 

In her spare time, Katie can be found performing improv around Denver or taking too many photos of her dog, Wally. Katie also co-hosts the "This Is a Good Movie Podcast" with her husband, Joe.