Kathleen Ralls is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst (BA), American University (MAT), and the University of Massachusetts Lowell (PhD). She is an award-winning public educator with 15 years experience in multiple states and countries including Norway, where she was a Fulbright Foundation Roving Scholar of American Studies. Prior to teaching, Kathleen was a sports writer for a local newspaper. She has coached a variety of sports including field hockey, basketball, softball, and track & field. Kathleen lives in Massachusetts with her husband and cat, where she is the slowest runner in her household.
How did you get your start in running?

Foundation for everything that she did

Soccer, as well

Running and keeping herself in shape was the key to her success

20s-30s - about herself and clearing her head


SRC Run Series

Set some goals for the summer

Running with family

Amazing


That people are just getting out and running




-How did you get involved in GGR and what has this experience been like for you?

Reached out to former director

Through her doctoral program

Passion project


-Tell us more about your unique career path! What inspired you to pursue your many degrees and a career in education?

Doctorate - limitless in education

What will set her apart?

UMass Lowell - had a program

Very involved in voting

Civics education

Gender equity issues in international countries


Sports, girls, women’s equity




-I see the world through gender

Personal and research level

Men have the advantage in sports...this angered her

Publicity and attention of male athletes


What about the females?




-Her work with GGR and research

Wilder Retreat

Wanted to continue running

Academic writing...not sure what she wanted to do


Had to sit with it for about 6 months



Kept field notes and

Applied to over 100 jobs


Instead, what could she do with this research?



Novel about Ethiopian girl runners

“How could we ever forget?” - minute 23 - quote for Instagram

New theory on creating voice and empowerment


Creating a curriculum to have girls reflect on their voice


What are the skills that they are developing as athletes






Sport - ticket to having a voice and confidence
-When did you get involved in coaching and what has been your favorite sport to coach?

High school sports

Spent time writing at the local paper


-What advice would you give to your younger self?

Do not take yourself so seriously

Value in learning

Avoiding perfectionism


What does being a Strong Runner Chick mean to you?

“I think for me it means walking out my backdoor every morning to go for a run.”

Get back, get moving consistently - for mental and physical health



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