Dr. Katt Bongar Hoban brings a multidisciplinary perspective to her work with JAF, integrating insights from sociology, social work, and conflict resolution. She is a Professor of Sociology at California State University, Bakersfield. With a PhD in Sociology from UC Irvine, her expertise lies in organizational decision-making, social movements, and advanced research methodologies. She also holds a Masters of Social Work from the University of Chicago, specializing in Community Planning, Organizing, and Development, and a BA in Psychology and Peace & Conflict Studies from UC Berkeley. Additionally, she draws upon a breadth of professional experiences in arenas of education, program evaluation, non-profit leadership, facilitation, and community organizing. 

With six years of evaluation experience, she focuses on documenting organizational impact and implementing evidence-based practices. Skilled in methodologies such as needs assessments, participatory evaluation, and quantitative/qualitative analysis, she ensures continuous organizational improvement. 

As an expert mediator and facilitator, Katt excels in navigating complex interpersonal dynamics and fostering consensus among diverse stakeholders. She develops and facilitates participatory workshops and trainings that create opportunities for meaningful dialogue, learning, and engagement. 

Additionally, Katt brings to our team ten years experience in non-profit program development and leadership experience. She has honed her skills in conceptualizing, implementing, and managing programs aimed at addressing social and community needs. This experience equips her with a deep understanding of organizational dynamics, resource management, and strategic planning.

Katt's eight years of experience as a community organizer have equipped her with skills grassroots outreach, base-building, and organizing, as well as a deep understanding of community dynamics. She has led campaigns around education equity, youth empowerment, home defense against foreclosure, food justice, indigenous rights and economic inequality, as well as working on local and state elections. This work highlights her commitment to social justice and equity, as well as her ability to mobilize stakeholders toward collective action.