Testimonials

“It is my great pleasure to comment on Karen Zamarripa’s qualifications. Karen has been a valued colleague for over twenty-five years in higher education, at the state legislative level, within the institution, and at the national level. She understands the intersection between public policy and higher education better than most people in the country, and is an effective and well informed translator of each side to the other. She knows how to manage the political decision making process both within the academy and in state government, and can anticipate when and how decisions will be made. She knows how to speak truth to power, but is neither dogmatic nor a browbeater, both common failings among others who do this work. She is refreshing and energetic and thoughtful, and will be an asset to any team.”

“Karen Zamarripa is a master of the craft of developing, enacting, and implementing public policy that works well. Navigating the Governor’s administration and the state legislature is second nature to her. She brings more than good strategy to projects, though. What sets Karen apart is how meaningfully she connects to those with whom she works—in Sacramento and also throughout the state and across the country—and how deeply she cares about the students, families, and communities, we are here to serve. Working with Karen is a genuine pleasure.”

“Ms. Zamarripa is one of the best advocates I have had the opportunity to work with, and watch as she influenced both the policy and political processes of our state. And as someone who has direct experience in local, state and federal politics, I admire the success she has had over the decades for the system and our students. She knows how to connect the dots, make the case, tell a story, bring people together, and get the job done.”

“Karen possesses the drive, experience and creativity to achieve ambitious goals for the higher education institutions she represents. Most recently, she orchestrated California State University’s high-profile advocacy campaign that resulted in an ongoing state augmentation of approximately $100 million for the university’s core budget. As a result of these efforts, the university is enrolling an additional 10,000 students and deepening its investments in initiatives to improve its graduation rate and close the achievement gap. It was a pleasure to partner with Karen on this win-win for the university and the state of California.”

“Financial aid is a critical resource for low-income students in pursuit of college access and success. For over three decades, Karen and I have worked to improve the state’s Cal Grant programs while also leveraging the resources of federal and institutional programs to get the best results for students. She was a key leader in driving successful legislative and budget actions during her tenure at the California State University (CSU). She has the reputation for getting the job done. I immediately turned to Karen to help round out my advocacy team to pursue major Cal Grant reform that makes college affordable for all California students with financial need. Karen is one of the best strategists I have worked with throughout my career. She also knows how to build and manage a coalition, is never afraid of an uphill battle and knows how to get results. There is really no one better.”