Karena Simon

Karena Simon is a seasoned people leader with dedicated experience in the nonprofit and higher education sectors. She currently serves as the National Director of People and Culture at AIUSA. A native of Houston, TX, and alumna of both the University of Houston and University of Phoenix, Karena holds a Master of Business Administration in HR Management. She is a collaborative and empathetic leader, strategic thought partner and deeply committed to creating a values-based culture that incorporates actionable inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility principles. Beyond her professional commitments, Karena’s adventurous spirit finds expression in international travel, trying new cuisines, spending quality time with loved ones and exploring creative arts. Her favorite destinations to-date are Bali and Cape Town. She’s a lover of music, water activities and all things seafood.