Driving Innovation Through Connections: Katherine Phillips & William Christian III of Center for Neighborhood Innovation
S6:E18 bonus

Driving Innovation Through Connections: Katherine Phillips & William Christian III of Center for Neighborhood Innovation

Get ready to explore the boundless possibilities of art on 'The Truth in This Art,' guided by the insightful Rob Lee. For today’s edition, we have Katherine Phillips and William Christian III, from the Center for Neighborhood Innovation, who are driven professionals with diverse backgrounds and expertise. As Property Management Coordinator, William ensures seamless operations at the Hoen Lithographic Campus and other projects, combining his hospitality and architectural skills. Moreover, he is a self-published author, showcasing his creativity. Katherine, as the Community Manager, directs her focus on the Center for Neighborhood Innovation (CNI) at Hoen, bringing her experience from the Office of National Collections. With a background in Global Sustainability and Religious Studies, she excels in promotional efforts for charitable funds. Together, Katherine and William contribute to the success of their organization, with William pursuing his Masters in Real Estate Development and Katherine holding a B.A. from the University of Virginia.

About Center for Neighborhood Innovation (CNI)

The Center for Neighborhood Innovation (CNI) fosters innovation through connections by providing a collaborative workspace and innovation hub for mission-driven organizations. Their shared space gathers a diverse community, including non-profit and for-profit organizations, educational institutions, design firms, scientists, and construction apprentices, all working towards addressing challenges in distressed communities. Katherine Phillips serves as the Community Manager, overseeing community partnerships, while Will Christian works as the Community Associate, facilitating community events and engagement. Both are integral members of CNI, located in the Hoen and Co. Lithograph building in East Baltimore.

For today's discussion:

  • Discover how the CNI's shared workspace and community hub in the Hoen Building offer valuable resources and collaboration opportunities for both tenants and the community.
  • Delve into the CNI's commitment to serving as an asset and resource for the community while addressing concerns about gentrification.
  • Explore the significance of social listening and community engagement in the CNI's efforts, promoting meaningful connections and partnerships.
  • Uncover the challenges faced during the rehabilitation of the Hoen Building, including environmental remediation and the preservation of its historic features.
  • Learn about the importance of maintaining work-life balance and how finding joy in hobbies and activities contributes to overall well-being.
  • Dive into the creative and likable company culture at CNI, fostered by the organization and its tenants, like Outlook Animation Studios, promoting collaboration and fun.

Don't miss out on this valuable conversation with Katherine and William Christian III as they discuss the CNI and its role as a shared workspace and community hub in the Hoen Building. They address concerns about gentrification and emphasize the CNI's commitment to being an asset and resource for the community. They also highlight the importance of social listening and community engagement in their work. The conversation touches on the challenges of rehabilitating an old building and the unique features of the Hoen Building, such as the original flooring and mezzanine. Katherine and Will share their tips for maintaining work-life balance and discuss the creative and likable company culture at CNI.


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This program is supported (in part) by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation.

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Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard.

Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art.

About "The Truth In This Art"

"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, is a podcast that explores the essence of creativity and its community impact, amplifying artists' voices and their profound stories.

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Creators and Guests

Rob Lee
Host
Rob Lee
The Truth In This Art is an interview series featuring artists, entrepreneurs and tastemakers in & around Baltimore.
Katherine Phillips
Guest
Katherine Phillips
Development Associate & Hoen Community Manager at Cross Street Partners LLC
William Christian III
Guest
William Christian III
William brings over six years of experience in guest-facing and hospitality along with a background in architecture, real estate, and property management. Outside of the professional realm, William is also a self-published author of three and is currently working on his fourth publication. William obtained his Bachelors of Science in Architecture and Environmental Design at Morgan State University and Masters in Real Estate Development at University of Maryland, College Park.