Katelynn Dugan
Chief Communications Officer
Katelynn leads the company’s external and internal communications, media relations, and brand functions.
Katelynn previously served as the company’s Chief of Staff and VP of Integrated Strategy. She joined from Bracewell LLP, where she oversaw the office of former NATO ambassador and U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison. Katelynn began her career in politics, working as a policy and media staffer in the U.S. Senate.
Katelynn holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Kentucky. She and her husband have two daughters. She loves to travel, read, and, most of all, loves spending time with her family.
What traits do you admire in a leader?
Drive, empathy, collaboration, vision, and communication.
What are your core values?
Be passionate – if it’s worth doing, it’s worth caring about.
Let mission drive - as Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Work hard and recognize others – put in the work and you will find your purpose. And don’t ever forget about the team behind you, in front of you, and alongside you.
Let mission drive - as Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Work hard and recognize others – put in the work and you will find your purpose. And don’t ever forget about the team behind you, in front of you, and alongside you.
What is your Risepoint moment?
Several years ago, I was working on a script for a video that showcased the work that we do. While reviewing the recording, I heard the familiar scripted lines describing our mission. However, it wasn’t until the video cut to an unscripted segment that our mission truly came to life for me.
On the screen stood an emotional student preparing for her graduation the next day. Teary eyed, she shared how she had waited so long for this very moment and the anticipation she was feeling of finally putting on her cap and gown. However, this experience wasn’t just about her, she continued. She couldn’t wait for her young daughter to see her mom achieve this dream despite the obstacles, and she was elated to make her child proud.
I realized in that moment that although I had drafted all the “right” words to describe our business, it was this story that captured the heart of what higher education can do and the incredible impact it can have on families and the lives of so many.
On the screen stood an emotional student preparing for her graduation the next day. Teary eyed, she shared how she had waited so long for this very moment and the anticipation she was feeling of finally putting on her cap and gown. However, this experience wasn’t just about her, she continued. She couldn’t wait for her young daughter to see her mom achieve this dream despite the obstacles, and she was elated to make her child proud.
I realized in that moment that although I had drafted all the “right” words to describe our business, it was this story that captured the heart of what higher education can do and the incredible impact it can have on families and the lives of so many.
