Mary Kate (Kate) Berardi

Dr. Berardi is an educator and researcher dedicated to advancing connected communities, empathy and mindfulness education, curriculum innovation, and youth leadership development. With more than 18 years of experience in both formal and non-formal education, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her work as the Community and Economic Development (CEDEV) Program Coordinator in Penn State’s AESE department. She has extensive experience in community development, with a particular focus on empathy as a tool for building stronger, more connected communities. In this role, she supports students on their academic and professional journeys, preparing them to create meaningful change and strengthen their communities.

Prior to joining the AESE faculty, Dr. Berardi spent 14 years as a formal and non-formal educator, gaining invaluable experiences that continue to shape her teaching, research, and program leadership. Her research interests include empathy and mindfulness education, curriculum design and instruction, non-formal education program development, and education program evaluation. She has built strong collaborations in empathy education, including partnerships with the Fred Rogers Center in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

She earned her PhD in Agricultural and Extension Education in 2020, and continues to focus on advancing education programs that create lasting community impact. Beyond her professional work, Dr. Berardi enjoys spending time with her family and many pets, often finding joy and renewal in nature.