Et cetera : AmeriCorps NCCC Class 19 Corps Member Spotlight: Katherine Scotellaro

By: Rebecca Bigler

Katherine Scotellaro, from San Francisco, Calif., is a member of Maple 2 in NCCC’s Class 19. She arrived in Vinton on February 5, 2013, to start her 10-month service term on a team of people between the ages of 18 and 24. Maple 2 is made up of nine people from across the country, and they are serving together in a number of service projects across the North Central Region throughout their term.

“I want to give back to my country,” Kathryn said when asked why she joined NCCC. “I also am curious to explore a part of the United States that I have never been to. I want to help make positive changes, as well as participate in a challenging yet rewarding experience.”

Kathryn, known to most as Katie, brings several skills with her to NCCC. These skills help her be successful throughout her term with the program. She is creative and motivated, as well as skilled in visual arts. “I have a strong desire to contribute to a community,” she said. “I am also empathic and love to help others.”

Prior to joining NCCC, Katie graduated from the University of California – Davis in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in art studio and American studies. She also graduated from San Francisco School of the Arts in 2008. After finishing the program, Katie hopes to research programs for graduate school.

Maple 2 is currently working from July 16 to 31 with Nebraska Forests & Grasslands in Halsey, Nenzel and Chadron, Neb. The team is assisting with fence removal, repair and installation at Bessey Ranger District. This keeps wildlife from disturbing growing nursery trees that forest roadways and parks in Nebraska and neighboring states. The team is also assisting with hazardous tree removal at Hudson-Meng District, which was affected by wildfires in the summer of 2012.

Some fun facts about Katie:

Q: What is your favorite television show? Game of Thrones, Downtown Abbey

Q: What is your favorite book? Persuasion

Q: What is your favorite candy? Gummies and fastbreaks

Q: What is your favorite food? Acorn squash

Q: What is your favorite animal? Cats and owls

Q: Who is your favorite super hero? Thor

Q: What is one place in the world you really wish you could visit? Northwest coast

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Read, walk, get boba