Kate Griener

About

Kate Griener, Ph.D. works at the intersection of science, energy, and community, helping build partnerships that strengthen Louisiana's economy while investing in the people and places that make the state thrive. She currently leads community investment and partnership initiatives for Woodside Energy in Southwest Louisiana, where she collaborates with schools, nonprofits, local governments, and businesses to advance workforce development, economic opportunity, and community resilience.

A Louisiana native, Kate earned her Ph.D. in Geology from Louisiana State University, where her research focused on how landscapes evolve over time and the importance of evidence-based decision-making. She began her career in the energy industry as a geologist and paleontologist, working on exploration, new ventures, and technologies supporting the future of energy. She later expanded her focus to organizational development and community investment, building collaborative partnerships that create lasting impact across Louisiana.

Outside of her professional work, Kate and her husband own and operate a flower farm in southeast Louisiana, where they are raising their two children. She believes meaningful growth—whether in communities, organizations, or on the farm—requires patience, stewardship, and long-term commitment. Deeply invested in Louisiana's future, Kate is passionate about creating opportunities that encourage the next generation to live, work, and lead in the state they call home.