Karen Bowlby

Biography

As an Inclusion Manager, I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment where every member of our University community feels supported and valued. My multidisciplinary background spans governance, project management, and cultural psychology, providing me with a unique perspective on embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) into institutional frameworks and day-to-day practices. Prior to this role, I served on the Governance team, where I honed my expertise in policy development, stakeholder engagement, and strategic oversight. My governance experience extends to the local level, having contributed as a School Governor, where I championed initiatives to enhance accessibility and diversity in education. My tenure at the Greater London Authority further strengthened my ability to manage complex projects and collaborate with diverse communities on transformative social initiatives. My international experience includes working at the Ali Forney Center for LGBT+ Homeless Youth in New York City. There, I supported vulnerable young people, contributing to programs that addressed systemic inequities and provided critical resources for marginalized populations. Currently, I am also the Harassment Support Worker Manager for our Report and Support system. In this capacity, I oversee case management and deliver training to new Harassment Support Workers. As an Inclusion Manager, I design and deliver training to tackle misogyny, sexism, and sexual violence. My workshops on Privilege, Microaggressions, and broader EDI themes empower participants to engage critically with systemic inequities and contribute to a culture of respect and inclusion. With a passion for driving systemic change, I combine strategic insight with a deeply human approach to inclusion, ensuring that equity remains at the heart of all we do.