Karen Powell

Cahn Fellow 2019

Principal, Montbello Career and Technical High School

Denver, Colorado

Karen Powell is the Principal of Montbello Career and Technical High School (MCT) in Denver, Colorado. She received her B.S. in Physical Education, her M.S. in Education and her Doctoral Degree from Texas Southern University Dr. Powell began her career pathway in teaching with a strong desire to make a positive impact on students who are academically underserved. She believes in the old saying, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going!" She believes this is what it will take to increase students' academic and technical skills for college and a career of their choice. Dr. Powell is a well-disciplined and focused bodybuilder who puts her beliefs, dedication, and enthusiasm of the same effort it takes in chiseling her body, into her professional work. Her goal of "being the best" has kept has motivated her throughout her educational and professional career. This creed has led staff and students to successful academic outcomes at her previous and current campuses - and she continues to be a champion for all students. Notably is her ten years of successful experience in working in an urban school setting. Dr. Powell believes good relationships are critical in developing and empowering students to be their best. In addition to their academic success, Dr. Powell has been a driving force in founding a "Pop-up Library" at Montbello Career and Technical High School ensuring all students have access to books. She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta where she volunteers her time in the community. Dr. Powell helps students prepare for SAT testing and volunteers her time for the Channel 9 TV News Food Drive.

She supports the St. Jude's Foundation yearly fundraiser by donating time to "Run for the Cure" event. Her belief is that to be the best and succeed you must invest time and hard work to accomplish any goal you set. Dr. Powell challenges all her students to reach their goals through persistence, focus, hard work and discipline. It is her belief that all students attending Montbello Career and Technical High School will be champions and will achieve the knowledge and skills needed to thrive and excel academically in college or in a career of their choice.