Catie Laxner has spent her career in mission-driven work and is passionate about creating opportunities for collaboration and connection that strengthen communities. She brings a background in nonprofit leadership, program management, and place-based economic development. Before joining EFDC, Catie served on the external affairs team at University City Science Center leading fundraising efforts from federal, state, and local sources, and supporting initiatives that advance regional innovation and economic growth. Prior to moving to Philadelphia, she led a conservation focused AmeriCorps program in South Carolina and devoted her efforts to developing and expanding partnerships across the state. Catie holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and international studies from the College of Charleston and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Pennsylvania. Catie grew up on a Christmas tree farm in Northern Virginia and spent several years in South Carolina in both Charleston and Columbia. Catie has fallen in love with the city of Philadelphia and now lives in Northwest Philly with her husband and her dog, Ky. On the weekends you can find her exploring all the Philadelphia food scene has to offer or working on a home project. Catie loves the outdoors (making the riverfront in East Falls a personal favorite) and can often be found hiking, backpacking, or kayaking – she’s always looking for new recommendations!