Karen Nava

Karen Nava, PhD, has a strong background in visual design and creative direction. Karen is currently working as the Visual Design Director for the National League of Cities, a role they have held since 2019. In addition, they are an Adjunct Professor of Design at Bellevue University since 2021.

Prior to these positions, Karen worked as an Independent Consultant, serving as a Creative Director from 2004 to 2021. Karen also held the role of Creative Director at Gunster Strategies Worldwide from 2018 to 2019.

Karen's experience includes working for UnidosUS (formerly National Council of La Raza) as the Senior Creative and Publications Director from 2016 to 2018, where they led the development of brand guidelines, social media visual identity, and digital/print publication style guides. Karen also served as the Graphics and Publications Director for UnidosUS from 2008 to 2016, overseeing branding initiatives and ensuring consistency across various channels.

Prior to these roles, Karen worked in various design and communication positions, including as a Visual Designer for Fairfax County Government from 2016 to 2018, an Outreach Specialist and Graphic Design Consultant for the DC Government's Mayor's Office on Latino Affairs, and as an Office Manager/Branding Specialist for Columbia Pike Chiropractic. Karen has also worked in international settings, serving as a National Communications Consultant for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and UNESCO, where they managed information and communication centers, trained media leaders, and promoted thematic informative networks.

Overall, Karen Nava, PhD, brings a wealth of experience in visual design, creative direction, and branding to their current and past roles.

Karen Nava, PhD, holds a PhD in Mass Communications from Ohio University, which they earned from 1999 to 2004. Karen also obtained a Master of Arts degree in Communication and Development/Visual Communications, with a minor in Multimedia, from Ohio University between 1998 and 2000. Prior to that, they completed their undergraduate studies and earned a Licenciada (B.A) in Communication Science from Universidad Católica Boliviana from 1986 to 1990. Furthermore, Karen obtained a Certificate in UX/UI Design from HowDesign University in 2018. Additionally, they have a certification in UX Design from HOW Design Live, obtained in April 2018.