Department of Epidemiology welcomes new Assistant to the Chair

Kathryn Jansen recently joined the Department of Epidemiology staff as Assistant to the Chair (ATC). In this role, Kathryn will provide executive administrative support for the Chair of the Department, Stephen Hawes, and the Epidemiology Leadership Team.

Previously, Kathryn served as the Manager of Operations and Assistant to the Chair & Director for the University of Washington (UW) Department of Otolaryngology-HNS. While in that role, Kathryn completed the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification and employed her project management skills to help the department digitize their reimbursements process. Prior to that position, Kathryn worked in the UW Department of Surgery and with the UW Physicians Network. 

Kathryn loves knowledge. In her previous roles, she has been known to develop comprehensive ‘how-to’ binders to document all the invaluable information she amassed about the operations and processes for the departments she supported. She also served on the recognition team, helping to plan events and celebrations, including what sounds like a delicious crockpot bake-off.

Kathryn is from Seattle and received her Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from the University of Washington. She enjoys being outside, especially on the water—whether it’s boating in Seattle or playing with her niece and nephew at the beach during her family’s frequent trips to the island of Maui, Hawaii. 

Kathryn is excited to help support the epidemiologic research generated by the department. “Breast cancer has unfortunately affected several members of my family, so cancer research in particular hits close to home for me,” Kathryn explains. “When I was in the Department of Surgery, the doctors I worked with were first responders to the SPU shooting victims. I learned from that experience how much I appreciate the opportunity to play even a small part in something that has the potential to make a difference. I hope I can be a resource to Epi faculty, students, and staff, and help facilitate the important impact they’re making.”