University of Iowa alumna Karen Allen joins the UI College of Education as the new director of UI WILD, Wildlife Instruction and Leadership Development, bringing more than two decades of experience as an administrator and educator in K-12 settings.

Allen, who will assume her new position Jan. 21, earned a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics from the UI, and she completed preparation for teaching mathematics in kindergarten through grade 12 at the UI College of Education. She also has a Master of Arts in educational administration and an Educational Specialist degree in leadership, both from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota.

“I am thrilled to be coming back to Iowa City,” Allen says. “It will be a joy to work alongside a variety of stakeholders to inspire innovative learning and create more awareness and opportunities for everyone while leading a talented and dedicated team.”

UI WILD provides programs that awaken awareness, nurture appreciation, and inspire action for all things wild in educators, students, program participants, and the community. 

As UI director, Allen will lead strategy and operations of the three UI WILD programs – the Iowa Raptor Project, Iowa Wildlife Camps, and School of the Wild. She will also build collaborative partnerships within and outside the university to advance the mission of the College of Education and UI WILD in conservation, outreach and outdoor education, and provide a clear vision and direction for UI WILD. Allen will also help create and maintain sustainable and innovative programming for UI WILD. 

UI College of Education Dean Daniel L. Clay says the college is deeply committed to providing outdoor educational opportunities that enrich both K-12 and UI students.

“We are excited that Karen is joining our team, and she brings a strong blend of experience, expertise, and enthusiasm for teaching and learning in nature, especially as one of our talented alumni,” Clay says. “Our students, faculty, staff, and the community will benefit from her strong, collaborative leadership style that inspires innovation and excellence.”

Leadership is nothing new to Allen. For the last decade, she has served as principal of the Heritage E-STEM (Environment, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Magnet Middle School in West St. Paul, Minnesota, where teachers use STEM concepts, along with projects and field experiences related to the environment, to help students learn in new and interesting ways. 

Prior to this, Allen worked as an assistant principal at both the Shakopee Public Schools and Centennial Public Schools. Before becoming an administrator, Allen worked for five years as a teacher at the Heritage E-STEM Magnet School.

With Allen’s combination of education, experience, and her love of Iowa City, she can’t wait to get immersed in her new role.

“I look forward to promoting the joy and benefits of conservation and outdoor education,” Allen says. “There is a beautiful connection that bridges access, mental health and engagement within outdoor experiences, and I look forward to helping advance the UI WILD mission.”