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Cat Uong
Master of Public Affairs Candidate at UC Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy
Professional Background
Cat Uong is an accomplished public affairs professional with a rich background in community engagement, education, and social entrepreneurship. Growing up on the outskirts of Houston, TX, Cat developed a strong appreciation for diversity and has dedicated their career to empowering individuals from various backgrounds to achieve their version of the American Dream. Currently serving as the Manager of Development and Partnerships at Summit Public Schools, Cat plays a pivotal role in fostering relationships and creating opportunities within the public charter network, focusing on student engagement and educational equity.
Throughout their impressive career, Cat has held several notable positions that contribute to their robust portfolio in education and social impact. They previously co-founded the Orenda Education Initiative, where they worked as a coach to develop programs that supported educational advancement and leadership among underrepresented communities. As the Director of Education and Workforce Development at The Silicon Valley Organization, Cat was instrumental in advancing workforce policy and creating pathways for individuals to gain valuable employment skills.
In addition to these roles, Cat has partnered with various organizations, including Education Pioneers, where they served as an Analyst Fellow, and Y Combinator, where they contributed as an Edtech Associate. The breadth of their experience showcases a commitment to innovation in education and a deep understanding of the intersection between technology and learning. Cat's time as Operations Manager at Imagine K12 further solidified their understanding of how startup environments can enhance educational opportunities for underserved populations.
Before their journey in education and community development, Cat honed their operational skills at organizations like Doozy and the USC Stevens Center for Innovation. Here, they focused on optimizing processes and creating sustainable models for social impact through technology and collaboration.
Education and Achievements
Cat's educational background is equally impressive, holding a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) and a Bachelor of East Asian Languages and Cultures (B.A.) from the University of Southern California. Their dual focus in business and cultural studies equips them with a unique perspective on how to navigate complex social frameworks and foster impactful change. In pursuit of further academic excellence, Cat is currently a Master of Public Affairs Candidate at the University of California, Berkeley, Goldman School of Public Policy. This rigorous academic experience has further deepened their analytical and strategic capacity for addressing public policy issues.
Cat's interests extend beyond traditional boundaries, delving into cognitive theory, behavioral psychology, and social justice. Their academic pursuits reflect a dedication to understanding the nuances of human behavior and the social systems that influence it. Their passion for exploring the relationships between languages and cultures emphasizes Cat's commitment to cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in their work.
Achievements
Throughout their career, Cat Uong has garnered numerous accomplishments that highlight their dedication to public service and community development. Their role as President at USC Net Impact exemplifies their leadership capabilities and their commitment to leveraging business skills for societal benefit. They have successfully nurtured collaborations that resulted in sustainable initiatives benefiting local communities and educational institutions.
With a strong foundation in creative writing, Cat has contributed thought-provoking content to various platforms, expanding the conversation around social justice and community engagement. They are committed to sharing knowledge and encouraging others to pursue their own American Dreams through storytelling and advocacy.
In summary, Cat Uong is a dedicated and proactive individual whose diverse experiences in education, community development, and public policy set the stage for meaningful change. Their journey reflects an unwavering commitment to helping others, making them a respected leader and advocate in the field. Cat's approach, centered on empathy and partnership, continues to drive positive outcomes in the communities they serve.