Karen Cabrera McDonald

About Karen Cabrera McDonald

Education can change lives—and I\'ve built my career around this belief. With roots in the classroom and a strong background in nonprofit learning, I\'ve designed, launched, and scaled e-learning programs that support diverse learners, from first-generation college students to entry-level tech apprentices. What drives me is building accessible, inclusive learning that translates into real-world success. I specialize in instructional design, curriculum development, and e-learning development. In my most recent role, I created a library of professional development resources that reached over learners, built and updated dozens of digital courses, and led organization-wide training sessions that empowered staff to become effective coaches and educators. I\'ve also integrated AI into my workflow—both by facilitating workshops to increase AI adoption for staff and students, and by leveraging tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, Claude, and Articulate 360 Rise & Storyline in my own learning development process. My guiding principles: AI as a thinking partner, rapid drafts refined for authenticity, and outputs as starting points rather than endpoints. This balance has helped me design learning that is efficient, authentic, and impactful. I\'m now seeking opportunities to leverage AI-enhanced instructional & curriculum design—both as a creative collaborator in my workflow and as a learning outcome for others. I\'m especially excited about roles where I can-Develop AI literacy and digital fluency so learners build the critical thinking skills to thrive in an AI-driven world -Design content in mission-driven organizations, using AI to innovate while bringing a human-centered approach to cutting-edge work Let\'s connect if you\'re working at the frontier of learning innovation or looking for someone who combines human-centered design with AI innovation to engage learners and co-create impact.

Experience

1. Senior Learning Associate

   Road To Hire

   Feb 2024 — Present

Education

• Davidson College

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Anthropology

  2014 — 2018

• School for International Training

  Human Rights

  2016 — 2016

• Lipscomb University

  Master of Education - MEd, Instructional Practice

  2018 — 2019