At Diplomatic Language Services, our team is at the heart of everything we do. In our Staff Spotlight series, we’re highlighting the dedicated professionals who make DLS such a dynamic and inspiring place to work. Each feature offers a closer look at the people behind our programs. Read about their stories, passions, and the impact they make every day. Below, enjoy our spotlight on Recruiting Manager, Kate Marden.
Where are you from?
I grew up in the (literal) middle of the country – in Lawrence, Kansas
Where did you attend school?
Undergrad I went to first Tufts then Georgetown – my BA in German is from Georgetown. I also studied abroad at the University of Salzburg. My MS is from George Mason University.
What hobbies or interests do you have?
Running is a big one – I run every day, rain or shine. I also love to read, especially crime/thriller novels. And having grown up in the Midwest, I was very into equestrian. My daughter now rides, too, so I love to spend time out at the barn on weekends!
What’s a surprising fact about you?
After college, I bartended in Georgetown at night to make ends meet – my day job as an intern with USAID did not pay much! LL Cool J came for dinner at Chadwicks one night while I was bartending. The candle on his table tipped and set his tablecloth on fire. LL Cool J “cooly” extinguished the flame himself and tipped his waiter a bunch to boot.
How long have you been at DLS?
I started at DLS in 2011, so my 15-year anniversary is coming up next month. Time does fly…
What’s your favorite thing about working for DLS?
I like that, no matter how much of an old-timer I feel like at times, there are always at least a few people who have been there longer than me! 😊 In all seriousness, I’m asked this question by candidates a lot – and my response is always that I love feeling like I’m surrounded by people who truly care about what they do. DLS isn’t just a paycheck – our mission speaks to each of us in our own ways!
