Interview with Kathie Armstrong of the Quiksilver Foundation

Kathie graduated from Stanford University with a BA in Psychology and then went on to earn her J.D. degree from the University of Southern California Law School. She practiced law in private practice for several years before joining the Rockwell Corporation as an Assistant General Counsel. Following a professional hiatus during which she raised her three children, Kathie became an in-house attorney for Quiksilver, focusing on trademark and intellectual property matters. In 2004, Kathie became the first Executive Director of the Quiksilver Foundation, where she currently oversees its management and administration. Active in community affairs, Kathie is also a board member of the Humanitarian Fund for the Surf Industry Manufacturer’s Association. The Quiksilver Foundation is one of our earliest and biggest supporters since we were founded in 2005. Visit them at www.quiksilverfoundation.org

Kathie introducing an art show display at Quiksilver.

Stoked: What are you Stoked about these days?
Kathie: Personally, I am in a really great place in my life—all my family members are happy and healthy, and work is meaningful and rewarding. I am proud of Quiksilver and its commitment to environmental, educational, health and youth-related projects. And I think I am the luckiest person to be in a position to carry out that commitment and lead the efforts of the Quiksilver Foundation. It is so gratifying to be able to assist an organization like STOKED! The Quiksilver Foundation was one of STOKED’s earliest sponsors, and it is just amazing to see how it has grown and positively impacted so many young people and adult mentors in a relatively short period of time.

Stoked: What inspires you to do what you do?
Kathie: Quiksilver is the best company, filled with smart, energetic, creative and fun employees. In addition to their many talents, my co-workers are socially-conscious and generous of spirit. So, I am inspired by them, knowing they take pride in opportunities to continue Quiksilver’s tradition of giving. Of course, it is also extremely inspirational and rewarding to see first-hand the results of our contributions, whether from a small donation to a school fundraiser to a more significant one to our humanitarian project where we have partnered with SurfAid to establish the Quiksilver SurfAid Community Health Training Centre in Katiet, Indonesia.

Stoked: How do you get motivated to take on major challenges?
Kathie: I have to admit that my initial reaction to a major challenge can be one of anxiety, that I am just not up to meeting it. But, then, I think my background as a lawyer kicks in to help me be more objective and analytical about the obstacles. I am never shy about seeking counsel and support from friends and colleagues. It is my family, though–especially my amazing husband—to whom I turn for advice and encouragement.

Stoked: How important is it to have a supportive community within your field of work?
Kathie: Extremely! And I am very fortunate to be surrounded by people who want to help me help others. Our CEO Bob McKnight was the inspiration behind the Quiksilver Foundation and he is passionate about its efforts. I feel comfortable reaching out to any of the Quiksilver departments for assistance, from pr to marketing to financial planning. In fact, I consider the entire Quiksilver family of employees to be my team—they respond enthusiastically and generously to every contribution request in support of our local community. Recently, we had an Art Show event where we invited employees to produce a piece of art which could be auctioned off, with proceeds to benefit the Quiksilver Foundation. It was a tremendous success due to the great philanthropic spirit of our Quiksilver employees.

Stoked: Who has played an important role in your life/career?
Kathie: My dad was always my biggest fan. We were very close, and although he passed away more than 25 years ago, I still feel his presence and guidance in my head and heart. It goes to show how one individual can influence and shape a life. That is why an organization like STOKED is so important. STOKED understands how key it is for young people to connect with mentors who are willing to share their life lessons, skills and opportunities.

Stoked: What have you learned from action sports?
Kathie: That I seem to be the only one here at Quiksilver who can’t do them! Just kidding! I actually have tried snowboarding and surfing. I have learned that both sports require much determination and focus, and that I derive a lot of satisfaction and success in terms of achieving my own personal goals…which, admittedly, are very different from those of our Roxy and Quiksilver-sponsored athletes! I am around enough expert boarders to observe that they share certain impressive qualities. These individuals are dynamic, risk-taking, competitive, confident, which traits are evident in all aspects of their lives.

Opening of Quiksilver/SurfAid Community Health Centre in Katiet, Indonesia.