Karen Wells M.ed

Karen Wells, M.Ed has a diverse work experience in various fields. Karen currently works as the Community Impact Director at VPM since October 2022. In this role, they are responsible for implementing PBS Kids centered initiatives to promote learning for families and children. Previously at VPM, Karen was the Early Childhood Education Manager/Content Producer from November 2018 to October 2022, where they focused on building foundational skills and fostering community engagement.

Before joining VPM, Karen worked as a Licensed Real Estate Agent at Mission One Realty starting in July 2021. Prior to that, they served as the Community Impact Manager at the American Heart Association | American Stroke Association from March 2017 to November 2018. In this role, they played a crucial part in improving the health and well-being of residents in Church Hill Richmond by addressing social determinants of health.

Karen also worked as a Community Organizer at NARAL Pro-Choice Virginia from October 2011 to February 2017, where they contributed to women's health advocacy and coordinated programs for the Petersburg Teen Pregnancy Prevention Coalition. Additionally, they served as an Affordable Care Act Health Outreach Coordinator/In-Person Assister at Central Virginia Legal Aid Soc from November 2014 to July 2016, helping consumers navigate healthcare options.

Earlier in their career, Karen worked as a Women's Health Counselor/Spanish Translator at the RICHMOND MEDICAL CENTER FOR WOMEN from September 2004 to June 2015. Karen also held positions as an Education Coordinator/Licensure Specialist at the Virginia Department of Education from August 2009 to January 2011, a Student Life Specialist at J Sargeant Reynolds Community College from July 2007 to August 2009, and a Spanish Teacher (Grades 6-8) at Norfolk Public Schools from July 2002 to August 2004.

Karen Wells, M.Ed has a Master's degree in Adult Education from Virginia Commonwealth University. Prior to that, they obtained a Bachelor's degree in Political Science with a minor in Spanish from Old Dominion University. In addition to their degrees, they hold a certification as a Real Estate Agent from the Commonwealth of Virginia, which they obtained in July 2021.