Nicole Kast
About Nicole Kast
Nicole Kast serves as the Head of Programs at Catholic Relief Services in Guatemala, where she oversees strategic direction for various programs and manages relationships with institutional donors. She holds a Master's in Public Health and has extensive experience in community health, sociology, and program management.
Work at Catholic Relief Services
Nicole Kast has served as the Head of Programs at Catholic Relief Services since 2019. In this role, she oversees the strategic direction of various programs, including those focused on agriculture and livelihoods, children, adolescents, youth, emergencies, and institutional development. Her position is based in Guatemala, where she has been instrumental in coordinating technical assistance and capacity strengthening for project teams and partners. Additionally, she manages relationships with institutional donors such as the Food for Peace (FFP), the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Education and Expertise
Nicole Kast has a diverse educational background. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology/Anthropology from Swarthmore College, where she studied from 2004 to 2008. She furthered her education at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, earning a Master’s in Public Health from 2012 to 2014. During the same period, she also completed a Certificate in Equity and Diversity and a Certificate in Disability Policy and Services. Additionally, she studied Alternative and Complementary Medicine at the Centro Internacional de Capacitación en Salud Holística, achieving the designation of Holistic Therapist from 2009 to 2010.
Background
Nicole Kast's professional background includes a strong focus on program management and public health. Her experience encompasses overseeing programs that address critical issues such as agriculture, youth development, and emergency response. She provides coaching and talent management for technical program leads, ensuring that project teams are well-equipped to meet their objectives. Her work emphasizes capacity building and the strengthening of partnerships, which are essential for the success of the initiatives she manages.
Achievements
In her role as Head of Programs at Catholic Relief Services, Nicole Kast has contributed to the strategic management of various initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and supporting vulnerable populations. Her efforts in managing relationships with key institutional donors have facilitated funding and resources for critical programs. Through her educational qualifications and professional experience, she has developed a comprehensive understanding of public health, community development, and program implementation.