Originally from the East Bay in Northern California, Katherine attended the Otis College of Art & Design and has since the mid 90’s worked in the Los Angeles garment industry as a Patternmaker. Over the course of this time she worked extensively in and around Downtown’s industrial areas which led to her growing passion and curiosity for the place. In 2009 she decided to make Downtown LA her home and became concerned with the notable absence of trees in Skid Row where she currently resides.
Katherine’s community advocacy started with her decision to initiate a neighborhood tree-planting in 2010. In 2013 she helped co-found Industrial District Green, which has gone on to plant and care for over 400 trees in the area. She has also participated in numerous grassroots efforts in Skid Row relating to improved street sanitation, increased access to public showers and restrooms, increased poll access for voting and continues to help amplify the voices and concerns of low-income residents to City Hall and beyond.