McKenna Lisa Cole
McKenna was born and raised in California and often longed to be at the beach with her toes in the sand and saltwater in her hair. She credits her mom with encouraging her musical and academic pursuits but credits her dad with inspiring her athletic and artistic interests. At a young age, McKenna also developed a passion for aviation and aspired to be an aeronautical engineer and pilot. But at 19 and on the brink of joining the US Air Force, McKenna opted instead for civilian life and pursued political science.
McKenna's knack for writing has drawn the attention of others throughout her life. While a student at the University of Washington, she was recruited as a writing tutor for the political science department. After relocating to Washington, DC, to pursue her master's degree, McKenna was hired as a journalist and editor covering Capitol Hill and international politics. During that time, she was selected as a junior research fellow and rapporteur for the United Nations in Tokyo and New York, respectively.
McKenna thrives in a creative environment. Her classical piano background has propelled her success as a teacher and musician who balances the technical and the artistic. Some of her former students have continued their studies at prestigious performing arts institutions and pursued careers in music-related fields. In her spare time, McKenna enjoys composing and arranging music, singing, painting, poetry and other creative outlets.
McKenna has earned more than a dozen certifications through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and has been a personal trainer and group exercise instructor for more than 20 years. Her attention to detail and ability to adapt to changing needs has earned her a clientele ranging from stroke survivors to professional athletes over the years.
McKenna's record of serving in a variety of managerial capacities proves her ability to lead and succeed in a wide array of industries. Throughout her career, she has acquired and honed a uniquely diverse skill set that makes her a particularly valuable asset to any team and project. Her default setting is to lead with integrity and by example, regardless of who is watching.
Author
Policy Researcher
Program Manager
Project Manager
International Editor
Journalist
Tutor
Classical Pianist and Teacher
NASM Certified Personal Trainer
NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist
Group Exercise Instructor
Boxing/Kickboxing Instructor
Boot Camp Instructor
Master of Arts in Political Management
The George Washington University
Washington, DC
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
University of Washington
Seattle, Washington
Associate of Arts
Bakersfield College
Bakersfield, California
Totally Obsessed Dog Mom
Musician
Oil Painter
SCUBA Diver
Bowler
Tennis Player
Trivia Enthusiast
Lover of All Things Outdoorsy
Specialty Baker
Cooking Maven
Bat Lover
Yellow Bunny Peep Eater
Devoted fan of:
College Football (Go Huskies!)
Boston Red Sox
Seattle Seahawks
Denver Broncos
NASCAR
and Indycar