Katie Bowler Young

Katie Bowler Young is a nationally recognized higher education strategist with over two decades of experience leading cross-sector initiatives that advance research, innovation, and regional economic development. At RTI, she leads institute-wide efforts to strengthen academic partnerships and build collaborative networks across universities and communities. Her prior leadership roles at UNC-Chapel Hill, Duke University, and Tulane University include securing over $21.5 million for global education and research; facilitating international partnerships and programs, including with ministries of education, science and technology; and driving strategic communications.

Ms. Bowler Young is a recipient of the North Carolina Governor’s Award for Excellence for Outstanding Government Service and a Fulbright-Nehru International Education Administrator Award. An award-winning author with three books and a frequent speaker, she brings a unique blend of strategic insight and storytelling to her work. She currently serves on the board of the North Carolina Global Health Alliance and is on the Executive Committee of the North Carolina Coalition for Global Competitiveness. She co-convenes the North Carolina Research Alliance and is Vice President of the board of the Friends of Writers.