Kara Hirdman

Between the years of Kara worked in the Athletic Department at the University of St. Thomas while obtaining her B.A. Degree in Psychology and Communications. After graduation she moved to Caracas, Venezuela where she was an ESL instructor and played  for the Universidad Metropolitana Rugby Team. After 2 years in Venezuela she returned to Minnesota to obtain her Master’s Degree in Education. While studying she worked at the University of Minnesota Athletic Department. Some of her work history includes; Minnesota Public School Teacher, Site Manager for Sylvan Educational Systems, Athletic Director at the MET School in Panama City, Panama, LA Fitness Personal Trainer and Instructor, the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Hamline University Gymnastics Team, Director of Healthy Living at the YMCA and the Health and Wellness Coordinator for the St. Paul Fire Department. Kara is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Learning. 

Professional Certifications: Educational: Intercultural Leadership, Cultural Lenses, Advancing Equity: Understanding My Biases, Dimensions of Diversity, Certification for PTSD impact on Veterans, YMCA Team Leadership Certification, Principles & Practices, Fiscal Management, Leading Others: Interviewing Guide, Leading Others: Employment Law Fundamentals, Volunteerism, Foundations of Listen First, Principles of Member Health & Wellness.

Health and Wellness: Foundations of Group Exercise, Understanding Diabetes, Lighter U, YMCA Ace Group Fitness, AAAI/ISMA Personal Trainer, Yogafit 200RYT, Healthy Living at the Y, Over 25 Fitness Certifications across all levels.

Kara is proficient in both English and Spanish.