Karen DeLano has 38 years of successful experience in public school leadership as curriculum coordinator, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. In addition, she has served on numerous boards, committees, funding drives, and other efforts for both nonprofit and community organizations. A few examples include serving as an executive board member or committee member for United Way, Boy Scouts of America, Chamber of Commerce, school system foundations, and numerous funding drives.

She has led several strategic planning efforts for school systems, nonprofits, and small groups. Many of her leadership positions allowed her to steer successful district accreditation efforts. As superintendent she provided professional development for school leaders including the development of state approved Professional Learning Units for practicing and aspiring leaders.

Karen has various experiences working with graduate programs in Educational Leadership at Auburn University, Samford University, and Auburn University at Montgomery. She has served as professor, guest lecturer, dissertation committee member, and  assisting with accrediting efforts of a graduate program. She has also served frequently as a guest speaker on leadership, funding, and various educational topics at the local, state, and national levels.

Dr. DeLano earned a B.S. in Elementary Education from Auburn University. She  holds a M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education from Auburn and she earned her Ed.D. in Curriculum and Supervision also from Auburn.