Katie Kolben '05
For most high school students, it is uncommon to enter college with a clear career plan. Not for Katie Kolben '05. Her experience with arts education at CESJDS shaped her professional aspirations of working in the entertainment industry.Katie attended the University of Rochester where she pursued a double major in Film & Media and Religion. After graduating, she moved to New York City for the prestigious NBC Page Program, which is intended to jump start the careers of new graduates interested in public relations and marketing in the entertainment field. Katie had the opportunity to work on many NBC television programs including Saturday Night Live.
Katie credits Dr. Green (z''l), Ms. Bresnick, and Dr. Solomon for helping her pursue the arts and for understanding her professional options. She says they always assisted her whenever they could.
Dr. Solomon, Director of Arts Education, says, "Katie was full of energy, enthusiasm and creativity - when she was a student in my classes, I remember that she loved to perform in front of others, that she loved to write funny stories, and that she loved to laugh .... It's no surprise to me that Katie has become so successful and I'm delighted that she feels that CESJDS' emphasis on the arts helped guide her in that direction. I'm very proud of her."
Currently, Katie works at International Creative Management (ICM) Talent with an agent who represents the production companies that produce the Real Housewives series, No Reservations, and DC Cupcakes. She also works on pitching new shows. Katie is excited to continue her career in the development and programming of unscripted television.