Biography: Dr. Kate Stewart

Dr. Kate Stewart is a researcher, consultant and coach who specializes in individual, team, and organizational performance improvement. Her emphasis is goal-setting and goal achievement.

Kate's work reflects both the depth and breadth of her skills and experience. She has performed research on topics including culture-specific communication styles, narrative theory, and conflict management. She is an author, certified mediator, ethnographer, corporate trainer, and executive coach. Her experience includes over 20 years of management experience in various industries and leadership roles in volunteer and civic organizations.

Kate has taught courses in leading graduate business schools and communications programs. She has helped design comprehensive conflict resolution programs and training for large corporations.

Reflecting and contributing to her diverse background, she obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Cultural Anthropology from the University of Florida and a Master's Degree in Middle East Languages and Cultures from the University of Texas. She also obtained a Master's in Business Administration and a Ph.D. in Communication Studies from the University of Texas. She has traveled extensively and lived and worked in the Middle East for a number of years.

The themes underlying her work have always been culture, communication, and conflict management. She is motivated by two questions: "How can people communicate with one another more productively?" and "What is the easiest and most effective way to make our dreams reality?"

Kate relies on a network of collaborative relationships in academia and the professional world. Her work reflects an integration of the most up-to-date research findings from multiple disciplines.

She enjoys hiking, spending time outdoors, writing, gardening, and cooking. Her family is her greatest joy.

Kate's current goals (she has a list of only 34 goals) include losing 25 lbs, developing greater mindfulness, competing in yet another triathlon, and dedicating more time to her family. She will share her progress transparently in this blog and on the www.goldscaffold.com website.