Karen Belinda Francis

Karen Belinda Francis, Ph.D. has extensive work experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as cultural and linguistic competence. Karen Belinda currently serves as the Vice President and Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer at the American Institutes for Research since June 2021. Prior to this, they held various roles at the same organization, including Co-Lead of the Cultural and Linguistic Competence (CLC) Workgroup and Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Council. Karen Belinda also served as the Director and Interim Director of Diversity and Inclusion. Dr. Francis has been involved in leading major research efforts and implementing capacity-building training programs for state and local educational agencies, social services systems, and community-based organizations. Additionally, they have experience in addressing disparities, gender responsive programming, and youth violence prevention. Before their tenure at the American Institutes for Research, Dr. Francis held several positions at the National Training and Technical Assistance Centers, including Senior Researcher and Executive Director of the Safe Schools/Healthy Students Action Center. Karen Belinda has a strong background in training and technical assistance for various organizations and government agencies.

Karen Belinda Francis, Ph.D. obtained their Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Medical Sociology and Social Inequality from Howard University in 2012. Prior to that, they completed their Master's degree (M.A.) in Sociology from American University in 1986. In 1984, they earned their Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor's degree in Sociology from The Catholic University of America.