A few weeks ago, Grayson Kilburn, Social Media and Storytelling Intern, had the pleasure of interviewing one of our newest Board members, Katherine Ron! Katie is currently the assistant director of communication and relations at the University of Iowa's International Programs office, and her main role is to get people and students excited about international programs.
When asked what sparked her interest in international affairs, she stated that her interest sparked in high school when she took a Spanish class which allowed her to travel to Spain and France. Because of this trip, her eyes were opened to new cultures, diverse people, and amazing experiences. As an undergraduate at the University of Miami, Katie also had the opportunity to study abroad in Spain for around 6 months. She cited that Spain was her favorite country that she had visited because she became very integrated into the culture and connected with several Spanish people who she is still in contact with today. Since this visit, she has travelled back several times, and is looking to travel more in the future as well. By traveling and experiencing different cities and people, it deepened her love for global affairs and learning about other cultures. For her future travel endeavors, she would like to visit Japan and Greece.
She first heard about Global Ties Iowa (then CIVIC) through her position at the international programs office where they had a history of working together on projects. A couple of employees in her office had mentioned Global Ties Iowa, but she only really became involved a couple of months ago when she heard about the ribbon cutting ceremony and decided that she needed to go to the event. At the event, she started talking to some of the Board members and immediately knew that she needed to be a part of the organization. Because of this event, she is now very involved with Global Ties Iowa and is excited to volunteer more, meet more people, engage the community in more projects and delegations, and help in any way she can with the board.
When asked what she likes to do in her free time, Katie said that last year she completed her first sprint triathlon, and that it was really challenging but very worthwhile. She is excited to participate in this race again this year, and that she trains a lot for it in her free time. She also loves to read, travel, and spend time with her family.
We are so excited for Katherine to begin her position on the Board, and we can’t wait to see what she has in store for her new role!