A nationally recognized speaker and master storyteller, Kristen has spent the last 15 years working in non-profit marketing, fundraising and communication. She is devoted to helping others through her professional and volunteer experiences and is passionate about aligning philanthropic affinities and resources with the needs of the community. Through her efforts, she has proudly raised awareness and substantial funding for arts education, chronic disease prevention and economic mobility initiatives. She is proud to join Apparo as the Community Engagement Manager.

Originally from Peoria, Illinois, Kristen received her undergraduate degree in speech communication from Illinois State University where she competed on the award-winning Forensics Team.

Kristen currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, and uses her free time to cheer on her favorite baseball team (Go Cubs Go!), binge watch HGTV or lounge in the lake.