Karen Minkel

Karen Minkel serves as the Managing Director of Strategic Partnerships and Philanthropy Director at Lever for Change, a Chicago-based nonprofit focused on innovative philanthropic approaches that drive equity, activating over $1.5 billion for global change since April 2022. Concurrently, Karen is the Founder and Principal of KLB Advisory Services, LLC, providing strategic planning and program evaluation for foundations and nonprofits. Previous experience includes the role of Home Region Program Director at the Walton Family Foundation, where over $50 million in grants supported quality of life initiatives in Northwest Arkansas and the Mississippi Delta. Additionally, Karen led strategic planning for the City of Fayetteville, winning a prestigious award for sustainability efforts. Academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies from Northwestern University and a Master's degree in Public Policy from the University of California, Berkeley.