Natalie Coyne – Program Manager

Name: Natalie Coyne
Position: Program Manager
Location: Butler, PA
Hometown: Butler, PA
College: Chatham University (B.A., Political Science and History); Johns Hopkins University (M.A., Public Management)

 

How did you get interested in global poverty?

It is hard to narrow it down to one specific instance or thing. One part of it is that, for much of my life, one of my cousins lived in rural Belize and ran a nonprofit organization down there. As a result, I heard a lot of stories about how life is in the rural areas of a developing Central American country. This was definitely an eye-opening experience and one that started early in life. However, my own experiences growing up in a poorer area of the US was also a factor in wanting to address poverty. Finally, learning about the Cambodian and Rwandan genocides in high school was something that really made me interested in international issues.

 

What’s your favorite thing about being part of The Borgen Project?

Getting to address these issues on a more systemic level is something that really resonates with me. Getting to do this work on a remote basis is even better! When I was younger, I was interested in, one day, joining the Peace Corps. Then, I realized that living abroad for over two years wasn’t for me (I have such a huge respect for those who do participate!). Being with The Borgen Project allows me to participate in change in a way that easily fits in with my life. Plus, I get to supervise others as they also realize the change they’re making!

 

What advice do you have for people who’ve just joined the organization?

Things seem very intimidating at first (trust me, I started as an intern myself and felt very intimidated at first), but once you get in the groove of things, you’ll find things go more smoothly than you anticipated. So don’t give up! Also, take full advantage of your time with us. Think of the big picture and realize what transferable skills you’re building via the goals we set for you, even if it feels uncomfortable at times.

 

What does your typical day look like?

Assessing the progress of interns and volunteers in all three of our served countries by reviewing weekly trackers, sending and answering emails, and holding one-on-one Zoom meetings. I’m also often paying attention to the current happenings in Canadian, US, and UK politics, making sure to be prepared for things in Congressional/Parliamentary politics that may arise. Plus, I make sure that I’m emailing and calling my own Congressional leaders at least once a week!

 

Favorite book/album/TV show?

  • Book: Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
  • Album: Speak Now (Taylor’s Version) by Taylor Swift (I’m happy to say that I was able to attend the Pittsburgh dates of the Speak Now, Red, Reputation, and Eras tours!)
  • TV Show: Timeless (2016-2018)

 

Any random fact that you can share with us?

I’ve been taking American Sign Language classes since February 2023!