Beyond the Bio: Katie Mae Simpson, Speed Walker
Katie Mae Simpson is Membership Manager at the Maine Association of Nonprofits. Before joining MANP she worked in the nonprofit and political fields for her entire career, including stints at Planned Parenthood and as Director of Emerge Maine.
To help you get to know this MANP staffer and presenter, we asked Katie Mae the following questions.
Hometown?
I was born in Millinocket, Maine, where my dad’s people come from generations back. I was raised in Columbia Falls Maine, where my maternal grandfather’s people come from waaay back (Washington County represent!).
What’s something we might not know about you even after we spend a day with you?
I’m an open book. You’ll know anything you can think to ask.
What do you do for fun?
Physical activity – running and yoga and political volunteering. I don’t have a lot of “free” time, because when I’m not working I’m taking care of my two preschool-aged children.
What’s your greatest strength?
I’m unflappable in high-stress professional situations.
Coffee or tea?
ALL THE COFFEE.
Favorite part about living in Maine?
I love having all 4 seasons, and living close to family, including my siblings and nephews. I LOVE to run into people I know, or make new friends, everywhere I go – Maine is a big small town.
First job at a nonprofit?
Toxics Action Center – first job after college – organizing groups of people to work on environmental issues in their communities. Working at TAC got me fired up to help people improve their communities, and I became a grassroots organizer at heart and by trade.
What book is on your nightstand/coffee table?
American Character by Maine favorite Colin Woodard. I also read Runner’s World magazine religiously and wish it was published weekly instead of monthly.
What makes you laugh the most?
The wacky and hilarious things my 3-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter say.
What is your favorite vacation destination?
Our family camp on Rangeley Lake. We unplug our phones and go hiking, swimming, and canoeing all day.
What was the last movie you went to? Thumbs up or thumbs down?
Money Monster; thumbs-up for being entertaining, as well as for passing the Bechdel test AND having a female director (Jodie Foster).
What is your biggest pet peeve?
I’m a fast walker, so walking behind a group of amblers is a bit of a pet peeve.
Learn more about (and from) Katie Mae at her upcoming Membership Orientation Webinar.
