About Kate Fessler

Kate Fessler is the senior director of outreach for RISE Up at the NRF Foundation, where she works with organizations across the country – including high schools, workforce organizations and community colleges – to introduce and deliver the RISE Up credentials to learners preparing for first jobs and second chances in retail and beyond. Prior to joining NRF, Kate worked for UVA’s Darden School of Business, overseeing the Board of Trustees and advisory boards, and at the American Staffing Association, where she was the director of education. She also oversaw operations and coaching standards for a D.C. soccer club after playing and coaching the sport for many years. Kate has a B.A. in International Studies from UNC-Chapel Hill and an M.Ed. in Administrative Leadership from Vanderbilt University.