Karen Burnell Ruff

Karen Burnell Ruff possesses extensive experience in advocacy and public policy, particularly focused on empowering individuals with disabilities. Since November 2018, Karen has served as the Director of Development at The Arc of the Ozarks, and previously held the position of Outreach and Public Affairs Specialist. Prior to this role, Karen worked at the Southwest Center for Independent Living as the Director of Public Policy and Advocacy from December 2016 to November 2018, where responsibilities included monitoring and coordinating advocacy responses to legislative issues affecting people with disabilities. Karen's earlier experience includes serving as a Public Policy Advocate at the Southwest Center for Independent Living and as a Community Living Coordinator at the Missouri Department of Mental Health. Karen earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Missouri State University.