Kate Thorpe

Deputy Director

As CVI’s Deputy Director, Kate oversees CVI’s finances and operations, ensuring the organization is functioning effectively and efficiently so that we can spend more time working to protect Idaho’s environment. She develops and implements organization systems, communications and fundraising strategies.

My Story
I’m a conservation voter because everyone should have access to the outdoors. The outdoors are my place for reflection, to relax, find refuge, have fun and be challenged. Whether you choose to backpack in Idaho’s wilderness, paddle one of Idaho’s iconic rivers, or meet up with friends in a city park, our outdoor spaces and the experiences they provide need to be protected and enhanced for people now and in future generations.

I grew up in a Connecticut town nestled between some of the state’s largest farms and next door to a small bird sanctuary. Family nature walks were one of my favorite childhood activities. While at Hartwick College working to facilitate student internships at local businesses, I became interested in energy and public policy because of discussions I found myself having with business owners and community members on the then potential state moratorium on hydraulic fracturing.

Following a childhood desire to move west and my developing interest to learn more about environmental and natural resource policy, I moved to Idaho in 2011 to pursue my masters at Boise State. While studying at BSU I worked as a graduate assistant for the Energy Policy Institute. I worked for or was involved with several environmental nonprofit before joining the CVI team in early 2013 and have served in several different capacities at the organization since that time. As CVI’s Deputy Director, I am able to make a positive impact for Idaho’s environment and our democracy by ensuring CVI is financially stable, our staff and the programs they manage are supported, and that members like you know how much your support makes possible!

Background

  • MPA, Environmental and Natural Resource Policy, Boise State University
  • BA, Business Administration and English Literature, Hartwick College

Interests

I enjoy getting outside as much as possible and when not working can often be found mountain biking, white water kayaking, hiking, skiing, rollerblading, swimming, fishing or playing tennis. I am an avid proponent of spontaneous dance parties. I have yet to get bored spending time with my partner TJ, walking our dogs Riley and Burleigh, or being entertained by the everyday curiosities of our cats Kanye and Loki at our home in Boise.