About
For Katherine Anderson '20, a Carroll College education was about more than preparing for a career. It was about discovering how she could use her skills and passions to serve others.
Today, Katherine oversees the community development department for a Helena-based economic development nonprofit, where she works alongside small business owners, local governments, state and federal agencies, and communities across Montana. Through her work, she helps bring people together to strengthen local economies, support community priorities, and create opportunities that improve quality of life.
Before beginning her college journey, Katherine spent a gap year traveling and participating in service work throughout the Middle East and Europe. When it was time to choose a college, Carroll immediately stood out.
"I was looking for a liberal arts education with small class sizes, meaningful relationships with professors, and an environment that would challenge me both academically and personally," Katherine said. "After visiting campus, I knew it was the right fit."
Coming from Bend, Oregon, Katherine also wanted a college experience that combined a close-knit community with access to the outdoors. Helena provided that perfect balance.
"Being surrounded by mountains, trails, and opportunities for recreation made Carroll feel like home from the very beginning," she said.
During her time at Carroll, Katherine earned a degree in International Relations and was part of the Carroll College Honors Scholars Program. She found opportunities to expand her education beyond the classroom through internships, study abroad experiences in Belgium and Morocco, and meaningful relationships with faculty mentors.
One of those mentors was Dr. Fregulia, Professor and Chair of the History Department, who encouraged Katherine's passion for language and global learning. After Katherine returned from studying abroad in Morocco and began learning Arabic, Dr. Fregulia continued to support her by meeting with her outside of class to help her continue developing those skills.
"Her willingness to invest her own time simply because she saw a student's curiosity reflected the spirit of Carroll and left a lasting impression on me," Katherine said.
After graduation, Katherine quickly saw how well her Carroll education had prepared her for the professional world. Through connections within the International Relations and
Political Science Departments, she learned about an internship opportunity with the Governor's Office of Economic Development. She applied, was selected, and that experience launched her career in economic and community development.
Working during the COVID-19 pandemic, Katherine supported communities, businesses, and local leaders across Montana during an especially challenging time. She credits Carroll with helping her develop the critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills needed to navigate complex situations with professionalism and compassion.
"My proudest achievement is building a career centered on serving Montana communities," she said. "Carroll taught me that success isn't measured solely by career accomplishments, but also by how you contribute to your community."
That commitment to service continues beyond her career. Katherine remains civically engaged through volunteer work and service on local boards and committees, including the Holter Museum of Art. She believes that being community-minded means showing up, investing your time and talents, and helping build stronger communities.
After earning her Master's in Public Administration from the University of Montana in 2025, Katherine continues to apply the values she developed at Carroll to her work throughout the state.
"My education at Carroll instilled in me a deep commitment to service, community, and leading with purpose," she said. "Carroll challenged me to think critically, act ethically, and recognize my responsibility to contribute to something larger than myself."
For prospective students considering Carroll, Katherine says the people are what truly set the College apart.
"Carroll provides an excellent education and countless opportunities, but what truly sets it apart are the people," she said. "The professors are deeply invested in your success, both inside and outside the classroom. It's a place where you're challenged to grow academically and personally, while knowing you have a community that genuinely wants to see you succeed."
From studying abroad and learning new languages to building stronger communities across Montana, Katherine's journey reflects the lasting impact of a Carroll education rooted in service, connection, and purpose.
