Karen Murrell is a strategic advisor, thought partner, and subject matter expert dedicated to advancing financial well-being and economic mobility. A strategist at heart, a problem-solver by experience, and an advocate for economic justice by mission, Karen is committed to helping organizations move from intention to impact.

As the founder and president of Higher Heights Consulting and Training, she partners with public-, private-, and philanthropic-sector organizations, as well as cross-sector initiatives, to address systemic barriers and design solutions that help families and communities thrive.

Karen has led and contributed to many of the field’s most influential efforts to center financial security in policy, practice, and philanthropy. Her work has helped illuminate the unique financial needs of youth and young adults and shaped funder strategies to better support their well-being. She documented more than $500 million in public and private investments in two-generation (2Gen) approaches and synthesized lessons to guide future investments in family stability. She served as a coordinating partner supporting a multi-year, multi-state initiative to reduce systemic consumer debt—including medical debt, student loans, fines and fees, and high-cost loans—through policy and practice, and captured key philanthropic insights from that work. She also developed the nation’s first financial coaching census survey, providing critical data on the size and scope of the field.

Outside of work, Karen finds joy in travel—especially experiencing new cultures and landscapes—along with skiing, running, attending live concerts, and enjoying plays and musicals. She values curiosity, community, and meaningful conversation, whether on a mountain trail or in a local theater.

Karen’s commitment to helping families build healthy financial futures means sharing her expertise through multiple channels. Karen co-authored You and Your Money: A No Stress Guide to Becoming Financially Fit (published by Financial Times Press). She is also a contributing author to many publications and a frequent speaker at conferences.