Emerging Prairie is excited to welcome Kira Knutson to the team! Kira joins us as our Grants Coordinator, here she will work closely with the Grants Manager to manage the growing volume of grant applications and awards as Emerging Prairie’s initiatives expand. She will be responsible for executing grant management tasks, ensuring timely submissions, maintaining reporting accuracy, and assisting in the application process for new grant opportunities.
Read more below about why Kira is excited to join the EP team!
Tell us a little bit about you!
“I’m a small-town girl, born in St. James, MN and raised in New Ulm, MN. Eight years living on the East Coast after college made me a Red Sox fan and lover of all things anti-passive-aggressive. My husband, Steve Knutson, is a local artist and we have three incredible children, a really old house, and a rescue pup named Ham.”
What college did you attend? What was your major?
“I majored in music at St. Olaf College, then moved to Massachusetts where I earned my master’s degree in choral conducting from Boston University. After several years of teaching in the Boston area, I returned to Minnesota to complete a doctorate in conducting with a secondary area in voice performance from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities.”
What’s one activity that energizes you?
“Helping people energizes me to my core. I also really love a good latte and singing in a choir.”
If you could take a 30 day, all expense paid vacation, where or how would you spend your time?
“I’d visit Germany! J.S. Bach’s stomping grounds have been on my bucket list for a while.”
Do you have a favorite book or movie?
“One of my favorite friends sent Glennon Doyle’s Untamed to me four years ago and it changed my life. I finally ready Tara Westover’s Educated and loved that, too! I’ll read absolutely anything by Brené Brown.”
What’s your favorite part about living in the FM area? What’s your favorite hidden gem that Fargo has to offer?
“Downtown Fargo is a hidden gem – it’s my favorite part about living in the FM area.”
Tell us one random fact about yourself!
“Anyone who knows me knows that this isn’t a random fact AT ALL, but I’m seriously obsessed with coffee.”
Why are you excited to work for Emerging Prairie?
“Emerging Prairie has made a measurable impact on our community and I’m excited to be part of something so vital to the FM area and beyond.”
