Kara Kerwin

Kara Hornung Kerwin (@CERKaraKerwin) is President of The Center for Education Reform. Formerly the Vice President of External Affairs, she has managed efforts to bring reform to dozens of states, and has a wealth of policy, grassroots and media relations experience. She has counseled thousands of parents and school leaders seeking to maximize educational opportunity in their local communities. Kara has also assisted in the development of countless local, state and national partnerships created to provide viable educational options for all students. Having spent the last 13 years at the Center, she has managed all aspects of the organization and is intimately familiar with the needs and demands of the reform movement.

Kara is a frequent speaker and panelist on education reform issues in legislative, academic and industry settings. Her unique understanding of the education reform landscape draws from multiple perspectives that were developed working hand-in-hand with parents in some of America’s most disadvantaged neighborhoods; with educators and administrators hungry for reform; with legislators and other public officials at the federal, state and local levels; and with top media figures and advocacy leaders across the country. Kara has authored and contributed to countless reports and studies, state and federal legislation, and parent-focused publications.

Kara cut her teeth in public policy working in the offices of U.S. Senator Charles Schumer and the late U.S. Senator Daniel Moynihan which provided a unique perspective of the workings of government. Kara Kerwin is a native of Buffalo, NY, where she continues to be actively engaged with the community and schools.

Kara received a B.A. in political science from American University in Washington, D.C. She and her husband, Mike, are the proud parents of one daughter.

Download Kara’s official high resolution headshot: Color, Black & White