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Karen joined Communities In Schools in the fall of 2020 as the Innovation Officer. She earned a bachelor's and master’s degree in Social Work from Texas State University and became licensed in the State of Texas as a Master's Social Worker in 2013. Before joining CIS, Karen served as the Chief Program Officer at Con Mi MADRE supporting three chapters in Texas. Prior to that, she was part of the Children’s Department at Safe Place, currently known as SAFE. Karen’s goal is to disrupt systems that keep the families they serve at the margins, preventing them from unleashing their skills. Karen enjoys being an active member of her community and enjoys opportunities for educational and professional growth. Most recently Karen graduated from the Hispanic Austin Leadership Program. In 2018 she completed Leadership Austin’s Emerge program, and the Data Leaders Academy presented by Good Measure. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Young Hispanic Professional Association of Austin.