Katie Forsythe

Katie Forsythe is a Scholarly Assistant Professor in the Department of Human Development (HD) on the WSU Pullman campus, and coordinator of the Department’s internship undergraduate degree requirement. For over six years, Forsythe has supported WSU student success initiatives, namely as first director of the system-wide Transformational Change Initiative, and academic experiential learning efforts through the HD professional preparation and internship curriculum. Her approach to working with others is collaborative, strengths-based, and collegial.

Students note Forsythe’s commitment to their learning and approachable demeanor. According to one student’s evaluation of HD 498 (summer 2023), “Katie Forsythe has many strengths, such as being knowledgeable in their field, having good communication skills, and being able to engage students in the learning process. She is a good professor patient, empathetic, and has a genuine desire to help students succeed.”

Forsythe also serves as treasurer of the WSU Association for Faculty Women, and voting member and Budget Committee co-chair of the WSU President’s Commission on the Status of Women. Her work with the Transformational Change Initiative is ongoing as a leader of the LAUNCH program.

She began her career at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business developing undergraduate curriculum improvements. Notable contributions during her time at Michigan include managing the BA 200 guest speaker series and advocating for representation for diversity, equity, and inclusion into the summer reading materials.

Katie Forsythe enjoys her work at WSU and the many experiences she has had since arriving in 2017.

Courses Taught

• HD 200 Introduction to the Field of Human Development
• HD 497 Professional Preparation Seminar
• HD 498 Internship in Human Development
• HD 499 Special Problems

Focus Areas

• Experiential Learning
• Professional Preparation
• Community Partner Engagement