Katy Spinks, Grants and Contracts Coordinator in the Mark Chaffin Center for Healthy Development, says she has always loved the supportive, fun and warm environment in the MCCHD and the SPH as a whole.
When did you join the School of Public Health, and what do you enjoy about working here?
I joined SPH in January 2013. I have always loved the supportive, fun and warm environment in both the MCCHD and SPH. It’s easy to feel appreciated and enjoy the work! Being supported in transitioning roles throughout my time in MCCHD—from being a SafeCare program coordinator to coordinating two different grant-funded projects to now coordinating grants and contracts—has allowed me to constantly learn new skills and grow professionally.
What’s a typical workday for you like?
In a typical workday now, I am working with MCCHD faculty and the Office of Sponsored Projects to prepare grant proposals, set up new awards and manage current awards. It’s a lot of budget spreadsheets, checklists, contracts/award notices and expenses!
What about your work are you most proud of?
My work requires a great attention to detail, which I think I excel at. This helps faculty, especially in preparing grant proposals, which can have varying degrees of requirements and guidelines depending on the funder and announcement.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
I enjoy playing tennis, traveling, and spending time with my family, which means tag-teaming with my husband to keep up with my very active toddler and preparing to welcome new baby brother soon!