Karen Casanova

Karen Casanova has a diverse work experience that spans over several organizations. Karen is currently the Chief Development Officer at Northside Achievement Zone (NAZ) since October 2019. Prior to this, they held the position of Chief Advancement Officer at Reading Partners from September 2017 to October 2019, where they led the development efforts for the national literacy organization. Karen also served as the Executive Director for Reading Partners in the Twin Cities from May 2015 to September 2017, overseeing the regional expansion and managing programs for ten elementary schools.

Before their time at Reading Partners, Karen worked at Target in various roles. Karen was a Group Manager of Community Relations, Education Initiatives from July 2013 to March 2015, where they provided strategic direction to Target's K-12 education grant initiatives. Prior to that, they served as a Manager of Community Relations, Service and Volunteerism from October 2008 to July 2013, developing and managing Target's local volunteerism strategy. Karen also held the position of Senior Specialist, Community Relations from October 2005 to October 2008, where they managed sponsorships and implemented strategic programs in the New York metropolitan area.

Earlier in their career, Karen worked at the Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum, where they held two roles. Karen served as the Director of Development from April 1998 to October 2005, establishing and implementing fundraising and membership plans for the University of Minnesota art museum. Karen also held the position of Director of Public Affairs from April 1998 to April 2002, overseeing public relations, marketing, and online presence for the museum.

Karen's career started at The Jungle Theater, where they were the Public Relations Director from February 1992 to April 1998. Karen played a key role in establishing the theater's presence in the Twin Cities' theater scene through effective public relations and marketing strategies.

Overall, Karen Casanova has extensive experience in development and fundraising, program management, community relations, and public relations/marketing in both nonprofit and corporate sectors.

Karen Casanova received a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Cum Laude degree in Political Science and Communications from Augsburg University. The start and end years of their education are not provided.