Founding Co-Director & Director of Operations

Katie Spann

Katie Spann is a seasoned professional with a distinguished career in operations, finance, and human resources. She specializes in creating and implementing programs that optimize business performance, attract and retain top talent, foster a positive workplace culture, and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. As Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of the Polarization & Extremism Research & Innovation Lab (PERIL) at American University, she leverages her strategic and organizational leadership skills to advance critical research and community engagement.

A Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation Entrepreneur, Katie brings a visionary approach to operational management, ensuring sustainable growth and impactful outcomes. Her leadership extends beyond PERIL, as she co-founded Meet at the Table with her daughter, an initiative fostering meaningful dialogues on racial issues across college campuses and communities. Notably, the program hosted a discussion at Hofstra University during the 2016 U.S. Presidential Debate.

Katie’s expertise in finance and grants management has been pivotal in driving operational efficiency and transparency, as evidenced by her role in developing comprehensive financial reports, tracking award statuses, and overseeing budgets. Her innovative approach to aligning organizational goals with personal achievements reflects her commitment to fostering professional growth within her teams.

With a proven track record of success and a passion for meaningful change, Katie Spann continues to drive organizational excellence while championing social equity and inclusion.

Back to Team
Share
Stay Updated

Enter your email address to find out about new research, reports and toolkits to help reduce polarization and extremism.