Kristen leads the academic program by weaving together the demands of the IB Diploma Programme with the UWC mission. Staying attuned to meaningful practices relevant to graduates at this unique time, her emphasis is on leading students and faculty to set and maintain thoughtful goals needed to open doors and persevere through whatever challenges lie ahead. With a BA in Environmental Education, from Prescott College and an MS in Biology/Genetics from Northern Arizona University, Kristen anchors the curriculum in enduring skills that promote curiosity and life-long learning. Kristen owns Catalyst Learning Curricula, a curriculum development and educational training company that specializes in embedding experiential practices within a structure of academic rigor. Her experience working with students and teachers from schools around the world has informed her understanding of how education can best serve students to prepare for the undefined opportunities in their future.