Katrina Andry
Board Member
Pronouns: she/her
Job: Project and Publication Manager at The Data Center of Southeast Louisiana and Visual Artist
What brought you to 826 New Orleans? I was first introduced to 826 New Orleans when it was still Big Class through a friend who asked if I could create a zine for their auction held during their Halloween themed gala. I began following their work after that and stay inspired by the work they do in and out of schools.
What are you most excited about as a board member? As a new board member, I’m looking forward to being more engaged in 826 community here and nationally, learning more about how they’re working to move the needle in order to increase literacy amongst our young people. Increasing literacy and empowering young people to use their words and to be heard.
What was your favorite book as a kid, and why? I read a lot as a kid, but admittedly, I did not like to read. I read because I thought that’s what you needed to do to be smart and more well-rounded and therefore more likeable. But I do remember when I was maybe nine or ten years old, I really liked the “Friends 4-Ever” series, “The Babysitter’s Club”, and “The Boxcar Children”…so 90s. For me all of these books were “coming of age” in their way and kids showing empathy, making friends, helping each other…sticking together. As a shy and sheltered kid, it was fun to read how people my age interacted and what they talked about and how they overcame conflict.
What are you up to outside of your work with us? In my day-to-day besides working as a project manager for The Data Center of Southeast Louisiana, I’m a visual artist who exhibits nationally, a spouse, and a mom of two rambunctious twin boys.
If you were a ghost for a day, where would you most like to haunt? I would definitely haunt the White House. I’m sure that there are other ghosts there that would be interesting to talk to.