Karen Kelley-Ariwoola

Chief Operating Officer @Northside Achievement Zone Naz

Minneapolis, MN, US

Lead the day-to-day collective impact work of the NAZ backbone to deliver equitable outcomes for North Minneapolis\' children, youth, and families; with measurable improvements in academic growth and proficiency, attendance, high school graduation, and family stability: Cultivate strong partnerships with over 40 early childhood centers, schools, community organizations, and government agencies to advance cradle-to-career pathways, aligning collective impact strategies with community needs. Provide oversight and management of $6–$8M in partner contracts annually, serving over 1200 families and 2400 scholars in North Minneapolis. Collaborate with national cradle-to-career partners (Harlem Children’s Zone, Blue Meridian Partners, William Julius Wilson Institute, StriveTogether, and Harvard EdRedesign) to replicate best practices, strengthen backbone impact and outcomes, and contribute to the field.

Western Illinois University

Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Early Childhood Education and Teaching

DePaul University

Master of Arts (M.A.), Family Support Studies