Personal Summary

Katie Cordingley is the Assistant Dean and Director of Career Development, Community Partnerships, and Scholarships for the Davidson Honors College. For the 2019-2020 academic year, Katie served as the Interim Director of the DHC. In her current role, she works directly with students, alumni, employers, the Missoula community and other university partners to help honors students develop and accomplish holistic career and postgraduate educational goals while getting the most of their educational experiences at UM. She also serves as the administrative advisor for the QUEST Program, which is a year-long challenge for students to address a pressing community issue. Katie comes to the University of Montana after working in government relations and consulting for colleges and universities in Washington, DC. Prior to that role, Katie worked in the U.S. Senate, in Washington, DC, and for the Montana Office of Public Instruction, in Helena. Katie grew up in Helena, MT. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington in Journalism and Political Communications. She holds a master’s degree from Harvard University in Education Policy and Management and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology at the University of Montana.

Boldest thing I've done

I feel bold when I do something I've never done before or test my physical or intellectual limits, like traveling to new places, moving across the country to start a job, hiking farther than I thought I could, or starting a Ph.D. during a global pandemic while working full time.

Most important book I've read

To Kill a Mockingbird (My mother's guidebook for treating others with respect)

Piece of advice

"Don't lie, then you never have to remember what you said." (A college professor, paraphrasing someone who may or may not be Mark Twain)

"Wash your hands, eat a banana." (My father's wisdom for staying well)

Education

Ed. M., Education Policy and Management, Harvard University (2013)

B.A., Journalism, Emphasis in political communication, University of Washington (2009)