Karen Paikin Barall is a seasoned public policy expert with over two decades of experience in government relations, nonprofit leadership, and advocacy. Currently serving as the Chief Policy Officer at The Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law, she leads the organization’s multi-year public policy, advocacy, and communications strategy to advance its mission of promoting human rights and combating discrimination.

Prior to her tenure at the Brandeis Center, Karen was Vice President of Government Relations at The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), where she played a pivotal role in shaping federal policy and advocacy efforts. Before joining JFNA, she directed the Government Relations Office at Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, where she was instrumental in advancing legislation related to women’s health and combating antisemitism.

Earlier in her career, Karen served as a Foreign Affairs Officer in the U.S. Department of State’s Office to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism, and as Special Assistant for Community Affairs to New York Governor George Pataki. She also held the position of Commissioner for the Maryland Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives, where she worked to enhance community engagement and support for diverse communities across the state.

A passionate advocate for Israel and Jewish communal causes, Karen is committed to combating discrimination at all levels, from policy advocacy to public education. She has been actively involved in various initiatives to strengthen U.S.-Israel relations and promote Jewish education and security. She resides in Potomac, Maryland, with her husband, Colonel Allan Barall, their two children, and their Beagle, Hunter.