Diane Carney

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT DIANE CARNEY

I am an educational leader, program designer, and consultant with over two decades of experience developing academically rigorous, student-centered learning models within complex and nontraditional environments. I hold an M.S. in Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Development, as well as graduate training in chemistry, grounding my work in both developmental science and deep disciplinary expertise.I currently serve as Head of Education for Seattle Sounders FC, where I design and oversee comprehensive academic pathways for elite student-athletes ages 13 to 23. My work focuses on building flexible yet rigorous education models that allow learners with extraordinary training and competition schedules to pursue excellence in both soccer and academics, whether their next step is professional soccer, selective college admission, career development, or any combination. Central to my work is the belief that rigor and flexibility are not opposing forces, but complementary design principles, just as they are for our coaches on the field.In parallel, I engage in select consulting work through private practice, partnering with organizations on strategic growth, financial sustainability, governance, and operational systems. I am particularly drawn to mission-driven organizations seeking thoughtful, sustainable systems that align values, people, and long-term impact.As time permits, I also provide specialized educational support to a limited number of students and families, drawing on decades of experience across secondary, postsecondary, and adult learning contexts. My approach is strengths-based, developmentally informed, and focused on function; I meet learners where they are, set meaningful metrics for success, and build pathways that support both well-being and performance.Across all facets of my work, I am guided by a commitment to evidence-based practice, metacognition, equity in access to high-quality education, and leadership that listens deeply before acting. I am open to thoughtfully aligned consulting engagements and collaborative work where education, development, and human potential intersect.