Katherine Ramirez Campbell Named Community Outreach Coordinator

MEET CONCORD’S NEW COMMUNITY OUTREACH COORDINATOR: KATHERINE RAMIREZ CAMPBELL

Katherine Ramirez Campbell is a City of Concord resident with a

background in both community outreach and government. Prior to joining the city, she spent three years working in the non-profit sector serving all 100 counties of North Carolina. She worked on engaging communities, civic organizations, and colleges to provide them with education and resources about organ, eye, and tissue donation. Katherine is a graduate of George Mason University, located in Fairfax, Virginia – the county she grew up in and where her family still lives. As Concord’s Community Outreach Coordinator, some of her main responsibilities include managing all aspects of the Partnerships for Stronger Neighborhoods program, leading civic education programs, organizing our annual National Night Out and other community events. What brought you to the City of Concord?

I moved to North Carolina in 2017 after my husband, Ian Campbell, was stationed at Fort Bragg and joined the 82nd Airborne Division. During our time there, we both grew to love the Tar Heel State and decided that when Ian separated from the Army in June 2020 we would make North Carolina our permanent home. We drove through the Concord area once before deciding to move here. We loved the small businesses, neighborhoods, and sense of community we experienced when we visited. Now, we own a home here.

What is your goal as the new Community Outreach Coordinator?

I want our outreach programs to reflect the culture of excellence that I see my coworkers at the City of Concord strive for on a daily basis. My desire is that our residents and visitors walk away from encounters with our office knowing that when they reach out we do not take it for granted, we are going to do what we say we are going to do, and that it is a pleasure to listen to and support them in any way that we can. Ultimately, I want to increase awareness of the resources that the city has to offer and foster a sense of belonging among community members.

What would surprise someone to learn about you?

I only have one kidney! I donated my kidney to my dad in May 2017. We were blessed to be a match and have a successful recovery. My dad and I are living happy and healthy lives after his transplant.

What are you currently reading?

Right now, I’m part of a bible study where we are reading “The Good Book” by Deron Spoo. I’ve also just finished reading one of my new fiction favorites, “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman.

How can citizen’s contact you if they want to learn more?

I am always happy to hear from community members and my coworkers! You can email me at ramirezk@concordnc.gov or give me a call at 704-920-5298. •