Katelynn Dugan

Chief Communications Officer

Katelynn leads the company’s external and internal communications and media relations.

Katelynn previously served as the company’s Chief of Staff and VP of Integrated Strategy. She joined from Bracewell LLP, where she oversaw the office of former NATO ambassador and U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison. Katelynn began her career in politics, working as a policy and media staffer in the U.S. Senate.

Katelynn believes that education is a true equalizer. Helping people improve their lives and the lives of their families through education is one of her great passions.

Katelynn holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Kentucky. She lives in Omaha, Neb., with her husband and two daughters. She loves to travel and, most of all, loves spending time with her family.


What traits do you admire in a leader?

Drive, empathy, collaboration, vision and communication.

What are your core values?

Be passionate – be passionate about what you do. If you love what you do and who you do it with, you can make every day (or at least most days 😊) a great day.

Let mission drive – I was drawn because of the mission. I love the work we do and the impact it has on people’s lives. Education is the true equalizer and as Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Being in the business of helping people improve their lives and the lives of their families through education – there is nothing better!

Work hard and recognize others – Nothing worth working for has ever come easy. Put in the time and the work and you will find your purpose. And don’t ever forget about the team – whether it be those behind you who are pushing you to do better, those working alongside you to get to the goal, or those in front of you who are guiding and showing the way – never forget the team and make sure they know how critical they are!