As the CEO and Founder of Voyagers’ Community School, Karen leads with the belief that anything is possible when dreams, curiosity, and purpose align. A respected thought leader, speaker, and writer, she is known for advancing progressive education and inspiring transformation in classrooms and school systems nationwide.
Karen began her career teaching social studies in Harvard, Massachusetts, and later led fitness and recreation programs, developed interdisciplinary curricula, and served as a national trainer for the Physical Best program. Inspired by her own children, she founded Voyagers’ in 2004 after crafting its philosophical foundation over 18 months.
Following residencies in Holmdel and Howell, New Jersey, Karen restored and operated Voyagers’ in a historic 18,000 sq ft building for six years In 2021, she relocated the school to Brookdale Community College, where she cultivated meaningful partnerships with higher education faculty and administrators. There, she launched SAIL – Students Achieving Independent Lives, an innovative program for adults with intellectual disabilities that continues to expand under her leadership.
Karen remains deeply involved in daily school life—teaching, serving as a college and career counselor, and sitting on the Board as Secretary. Under her guidance, 100% of her advisees have been accepted to four-year colleges and universities.
As an educational consultant and founder of Disrupt Education Today, Karen helps schools implement progressive practices across public, charter, and private systems, and advises on launching mission-driven schools. She also contributes to educational publications, blogs, and platforms focused on reimagining learning.
Karen holds a BA in Political Science and Communications from Hood College, an M.Ed. in Education and Partnership from Goddard College, advanced studies in Exercise Physiology from Springfield College, and a Master’s Certificate in College Counseling from UCLA.
A frequent speaker and media guest, Karen has presented at the Progressive Education Network, the Association for Constructivist Teaching, and has appeared on DisruptED TV, RVNTV’s CEO Chat, and national and international podcasts. She served as the New Jersey Liaison for the Alternative Education Resource Organization and has held leadership roles in numerous civic and educational organizations.
Through her work at Voyagers’, SAIL, and beyond, Karen continues to advocate for environments where learners—children and adults alike—are seen as capable, curious, and powerful contributors to their world.
When Karen finds free time, she invests in real estate, overseeing renovations and designing interiors.