U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities names new program coordinator

The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities (the Endowment) announced the addition of Katie Norris as program coordinator.

In this role, Norris will coordinate program-related activities and assist grants management and communications to support the Endowment’s mission to advance the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and the communities that rely on them. Morgan Franklin, who previously held this role, has transitioned into the program officer position, where she will continue to lead the development of the Forestry Analytics for Carbon Tracking platform as well as support new projects in line with the Endowment’s impact area strategies. Norris’s work will span project coordination, research support, stakeholder engagement, compliance, grants administration and organizational communication, further strengthening the Endowment’s ability to deliver impactful programs across the United States.

“We are thrilled to officially welcome Katie to the team,” said Aleta Rogers, director of grants and contract compliance at the Endowment. “Her strong background in communications, community engagement and program support combined with her passion for conservation will make her a tremendous asset to the Endowment and our partners.”

Prior to her current role, Norris served as an intern with the Endowment, where she supported both communications and program initiatives. She assisted with content development, digital outreach and website updates, while also contributing to program meetings and event follow-ups. Her work helped strengthen public engagement and advance the Endowment’s mission.

Norris earned her bachelor’s degree in agricultural leadership, education and communications from the University of Tennessee. During her time at UT, she was actively involved in student organizations and service initiatives, cultivating a strong foundation in leadership, environmental education and public communication.