She recently received her Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction/Literacy from Kent State University (USA) studying the expressive outlets for LGBTQ young adults during their K-12 schooling and beyond. Furthering her work as an Ally (supporter for the equality of LGBTQ rights), Karen serves as the LGBTQ Liaison for the Ohio Council of Teachers of English Language Arts and works with GLSEN NEO (Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network NE Ohio) as a Safe Schools Trainer and Youth Programs Coordinator.