Katherine Sanderlin is a relationship-builder who brings strategy, empathy, and a strong sense of purpose to her work at ECS. With nearly a decade in nonprofit development, she focuses on building long-term partnerships that help organizations grow and adapt in changing times. Prior to her career in philanthropy, Katherine worked as an actress and later taught ethics and human rights at the Ethical Culture Fieldston School in Manhattan. Both paths shaped her belief in storytelling, deep listening, and moving compassion into action—values that continue to guide how she connects with donors today. Katherine’s passion for this work is also personal. As a child, she spent weekends with her father while he was living in his car—an experience she saw as camping at the time. Looking back, she understands how much their safety and stability depended on the quiet support of those around him. That early memory grounds her belief in the power of community and the importance of second—and third--chances. She holds an MFA from the University of Georgia, where she studied on a full fellowship, and graduated with highest honors from Eckerd College.