Catalina Macdonald

Name (pronouns): 
Catalina Macdonald (they/them)
Department/Division: 
OBGYN/Bixby Center
Years at UCSF: 
7
Role in technology: 
Education Technology Manager at California Prevention Training Center
What technology project(s) have you worked on that you are most proud of?: 

We did a hybrid course on Motivational Interviewing. It had both an asynchronous part to introduce key concepts and a live online class component for participants to build skills. I think the combination of those two modalities brought out the strengths of each and created a good experience for learners.

How has technology helped you achieve a goal within your role or department?: 

I started growing in my role when I began editing and later managing CAPTC's websites. In my current role I'm able to combine my background in education with using technology to reach a wider audience.

What’s your favorite aspect of your role at UCSF and why?: 

I enjoy that in my role I get to learn about different programs and projects. My coworkers at CAPTC are so knowledgeable and passionate about sexual and public health that it is always inspiring to learn about their projects and goals. Finding the right medium and building a product that communicates our mission for a given project is satisfying.

What’s one ‘fun fact’ about you that not many people know?: 

As part of my marine biology program at UC Santa Cruz I got to dive in the kelp forest tank at the Monterey Bay Aquarium (as well as other kelp forests around the Monterey Bay, of course). This was a big deal for me because I’ve loved marine life and kelp forests since I was a kid.

What do you like to do when you’re not at work?: 

I always like a hike or swim somewhere along the California coast. I enjoy singing with QCSF and sometimes going to a contra dance. For inside time I like a good sci fi/fantasy book or show.

If you could learn anything, what would that be?: 

Hypothetically - lots of languages and how to come up with fun harmonies for songs on the spot. Currently - I'm working on learning more about data analytics.