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Kari Reid
Director, Policy and Advocacy at Mercy Corps
Professional Background
Kari Reid is a highly motivated and experienced professional with a robust background in public policy and advocacy. With over a decade of experience in humanitarian affairs and policy development, Kari has played a vital role in organizations dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged communities both domestically and internationally. Currently serving as the Director of Policy and Advocacy at Mercy Corps, Kari leads initiatives that promote effective policies and advocate for change to benefit vulnerable populations. Her passion for humanitarian work is evident through her extensive career history and demonstrated success in influencing policy decisions at various levels.
Before her role at Mercy Corps, Kari made significant contributions as the Associate Director of Public Policy and Advocacy for International Humanitarian Response at Save the Children US. There, she developed strategies that rallied support for critical humanitarian challenges affecting children and families worldwide. Additionally, she served as the Manager of Public Policy and Humanitarian Affairs at InterAction, a prestigious alliance of U.S.-based NGOs, where she collaborated with member organizations to advance humanitarian goals through effective public policy strategies.
Kari has also held key positions within InterAction that focused on legislative coordination for humanitarian affairs. Her experience as the Legislative Coordinator for Humanitarian Affairs honed her skills in engaging with lawmakers and ensuring that humanitarian issues gain the attention they deserve in legislative dialogues.
Throughout her career, Kari has not only demonstrated exceptional leadership capabilities but has also built strong relationships with stakeholders, policymakers, and community leaders. This has enabled her to effectively advocate for policies that address critical issues on the ground and shape discussions around important humanitarian policies.
Education and Achievements
Kari Reid's academic foundation is firmly rooted in the disciplines of political science, public affairs, and international relations. She earned her Master in Public Affairs with a strong focus on Public Policy and International Affairs from Princeton University, specifically through the esteemed Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs. This rigorous graduate program equipped her with the skills and analytical frameworks necessary to understand and address complex policy issues on a global scale.
Prior to her master’s degree, Kari graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. Her academic excellence not only showcases her commitment to her studies but also reflects her deep understanding of government structures and international relations, which has served as a cornerstone of her professional path.
Kari's education has been complemented by numerous experiences and professional roles that solidify her expertise in public policy. Notably, she has worked as a Congressional Fellow at Partnership for a Secure America, where she gained firsthand knowledge of the legislative process and built invaluable relationships within the political sphere.
Achievements
Kari Reid's career is decorated with noteworthy achievements that testify to her dedication and effectiveness in her field. At Mercy Corps, she has successfully led initiatives that have strengthened advocacy efforts and catalyzed policy changes to address critical humanitarian needs. Her ability to forge partnerships and alliances with other organizations has enhanced collaborative advocacy efforts, strengthening the voice for humanitarian policies.
During her time at Save the Children, Kari implemented innovative strategies that increased public awareness and engagement around humanitarian issues, ultimately leading to greater legislative support for vulnerable populations. Her tenure at InterAction has also been marked by her significant contributions to advocacy efforts, resulting in the successful passage of key pieces of legislation that improved humanitarian response frameworks.
Kari’s breadth of experience also includes a commitment to grassroots engagement, as evidenced by her role with Apne Aap Women Worldwide, where she contributed to monitoring and evaluation activities aimed at supporting women’s rights and empowerment. Her diverse experiences in humanitarian affairs, public policy advocacy, and legislative engagement underscore her capacity to navigate complex environments and drive positive change.
In summary, Kari Reid is a dedicated and accomplished policy professional with a strong background in international affairs and public policy. Her educational achievements from prestigious institutions like Princeton University and the University of Minnesota, combined with her extensive professional experience in humanitarian advocacy, position her as a valuable asset to any early-stage company seeking to enhance their management team. Kari's proactive approach and passion for making a difference set her apart as a leader in her field.