Kristen Conrad
Development Director | Rocky Mountain Welcome Center
I began my career in development with refugee and immigrant services as the Volunteer Coordinator for the Refugee Assistance and Immigration Services (RAIS) program at Catholic Social Services in Alaska. There, I recruited and managed volunteers, raised awareness about program needs, and led fundraising efforts to support refugees, including helping senior citizens gain U.S. citizenship through the Older Refugee grant.
Building on that experience, I went on to work with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in California, where I spent several years supporting refugee resettlement, community outreach, and volunteer management. I also took on a Development Manager role and focused on donor stewardship, event planning, and corporate engagement, while implementing in-kind donation drives for our programs and clients.
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Journalism from Gonzaga University and am certified in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). I also served in the Peace Corps in Madagascar. I’ve studied Spanish and French, which allows me to better connect with diverse communities and enhance my ability to support non-native English speakers.
In July 2024, I joined the Rocky Mountain Welcome Center as Development Director. In this role, I lead our fundraising strategy, including corporate sponsorships, grants, and donor cultivation efforts. I am committed to building strong, inclusive communities and supporting vulnerable populations through sustainable development initiatives.
I approach my work with a growth mindset, always looking for ways to empower those around me and build authentic relationships. I thrive in collaborative environments and am deeply passionate about making a lasting, positive impact in the communities I serve.