Hi Karen!!

See below for my information. Let me know if there is anything else you may need as you get things going! Sending you all the good vibes!

I would not have made the decisions I have made about my higher education career without the support and mentorship from Karen Kassebaum. Karen was one of the first higher education Black women mentors in my life who encouraged me to continue to challenge systemic issues in the education system but also remember to take care of myself. She opened my eyes to the type of experiences that Black women in leadership face, even talking through the ones she was experiencing herself. Karen provided me the opportunity to grow and build confidence and I am truly grateful for her mentorship. I can honestly say I don’t know where I would be without her!

Virginia R. Downing

PhD Student

Virginia Downing
Educational Policy Studies, Doctoral Student
University of Wisconsin – Madison