Karen Marie Swansey-Brewer
Richmond,VA
Summary
Seasoned leader with a robust background in program management and growth, notably at Virginia Home for Boys and Girls. Excelled in staff leadership and development, steering teams towards operational excellence and compliance. Demonstrated expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion, enhancing community engagement and program effectiveness. Proven track record in strategic planning and cultural competency, achieving significant program advancements.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Volunteer
Peace Corps
08.2024 - 11.2024
- Participated in initiatives focusing on HIV and Malaria prevention, integrating cultural dynamics and gender-based violence awareness into community strategies
- Implemented safety strategies that promoted community engagement and empowerment, using the Portuguese language to strengthen relationships
- Applied the Participatory Analysis for Community Action (PACA) framework to design, monitor, and evaluate community-driven strategies, ensuring alignment with local needs and priorities
Director of Independent Living Arrangement
Virginia Home for Boys and Girls
02.2018 - 08.2024
- Led the development and expansion of four youth programs that empowered marginalized youth to transition to independent living with skills in education, employment, and life management
- Managed a diverse team of staff and interns, fostering a collaborative environment with a focus on mentorship, performance feedback, and professional development
- Designed policies and procedures that prioritized equity, inclusion, and harm reduction, ensuring compliance with licensing standards and best practices
- Developed and optimized professional training programs that supported continuous learning and growth, contributing to team cohesion and performance
- Collaborated with stakeholders to ensure alignment with strategic goals, contributing to the development of scalable systems for program delivery
Assistant Director of Quality and Compliance
Virginia Home for Boys and Girls
05.2012 - 02.2018
- Oversaw compliance with regulatory standards across multiple departments, ensuring program integrity and operational excellence
- Led staff development initiatives and accreditation certifications, implementing performance management strategies that enhanced staff accountability and engagement
- Developed training programs that improved organizational capabilities in case management, treatment planning, and high-quality assessments
- Designed systems to manage and track the effectiveness of programs and staff, enhancing overall service delivery
Admissions and Marketing Manager
Virginia Home for Boys and Girls
09.2011 - 05.2012
- Led the development of marketing strategies and admissions processes, ensuring effective delivery of services for at-risk youth and families
- Collaborated with leadership to develop targeted outreach programs, promoting community partnerships and stakeholder engagement
Director of Statewide Programs
Big Brothers Big Sisters Services, Inc.
07.2008 - 09.2011
- Managed compliance for a $400K federal grant, including co-authoring grant applications and ensuring successful implementation of statewide mentoring programs
- Developed and delivered staff training on program development and monitoring, fostering a culture of accountability and growth
- Led data collection efforts to assess program impact, ensuring quality service delivery and regulatory adherence
Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Coordinator
Hanover County
01.2006 - 01.2008
- Coordinated treatment court programs for youth, developing processes that ensured program adherence to legal and therapeutic protocols
- Managed caseloads and developed intervention strategies to support youth rehabilitation, while fostering a culture of empathy and understanding
Intensive Probation Officer
Hanover County
01.1996 - 01.2006
- Facilitated rehabilitation and reintegration for at-risk youth, applying evidence-based practices to reduce recidivism and improve community outcomes
Education
Master's Degree - Rehabilitation Counseling
Medical College of Virginia/Virginia Commonwealth University
12.1994
Bachelor's Degree - Psychology
Virginia Commonwealth University
08.1991
Skills
- People & Culture Strategy
- Staff Leadership & Development
- Remote Team Leadership
- Program Management & Growth
- Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
- Project Management
- Strategic Planning
- Cultural Competency & Advocacy
Timeline
Volunteer
Peace Corps
08.2024 - 11.2024
Director of Independent Living Arrangement
Virginia Home for Boys and Girls
02.2018 - 08.2024
Assistant Director of Quality and Compliance
Virginia Home for Boys and Girls
05.2012 - 02.2018
Admissions and Marketing Manager
Virginia Home for Boys and Girls
09.2011 - 05.2012
Director of Statewide Programs
Big Brothers Big Sisters Services, Inc.
07.2008 - 09.2011
Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Coordinator
Hanover County
01.2006 - 01.2008
Intensive Probation Officer
Hanover County
01.1996 - 01.2006
Master's Degree - Rehabilitation Counseling
Medical College of Virginia/Virginia Commonwealth University
Bachelor's Degree - Psychology
Virginia Commonwealth University
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