Karen Niemi oversees and directs all of CASEL’s activities to enhance and expand evidence-based social and emotional learning, including practice, research, communications, policy, and development. She is an accomplished business leader with a long track record of success in the education sector. By blending a deep understanding of school systems and pedagogy with solid business practice, she has successfully led education companies through all stages of growth. She has helped schools advance their educational mission by making research and best practices accessible and actionable by teachers and administrators alike. She has brought learning tools and strategies to school systems and students nationwide, having led the creation and dissemination of professional development programs as well as assessment and supplemental instructional solutions in the fields of social-emotional learning, literacy, and special education.