The Board of Directors appointed Katiina as President of The Young Americans College of the Performing Arts in October 2015. In 2018, under Katiina’s leadership, YACPA completed its first comprehensive review in application for candidacy with ACCJC/WASC. The Commission ultimately made the decision to advance the institution and grant initial accreditation. Katiina’s leadership, planning, and focus ensured the College program development was consistent with good educational practice while simultaneously embracing the culture and values of the long-standing organization.
Katiina’s 20 years’ experience in arts-related business administration and program development has allowed her to carve out a career that combines her passion for the arts with her business acumen. After meeting The Young Americans during a visit to the U.S. with her Australian dance company, Kat moved to the U.S. to join the organization as its first Australian member. Katiina has served as business manager on international music outreach tours with The Young Americans in addition to serving as the Business and Operations Manager for the company for eight years before becoming the VP Administration and Academics. As the VP Administration and Academics Katiina was charged with planning, developing and implementing the College program.
Outside The Young Americans, Katiina has executive produced the feature films Table at Luigi’s and Sympathy Pains, and served as a board member with the Children’s Advocacy Alliance, a non-profit organization advocating for abused and neglected children.