Karen Beaman

Karen Grove Beaman is the Co-Director for the Master's Program in Trauma-Informed Education. She has an Educational Specialist Degree in Educational Administration from the University of South Carolina. Her pathway to Columbia College began as a classroom teacher in 1993, and became one of the first Instructional Technology Specialists in Richland School District Two. Enjoying the work with teachers and students, this led to becoming an Assistant Principal and ultimately Principal at the elementary level for the last 8 years of her career. As a principal, her school partnered with Columbia College by hosting student teachers.  

The impact educators have on a child's education can truly change his/her trajectory for success. Being an effective administrator means being a teacher advocate and support system for the adults in the school building, which ultimately impacts each and every child in the school. Teacher education, professional development, and teacher support make a world of difference in the lives of our educators and our students. It’s my honor to be the Program Director of the Masters in Trauma-Informed Education. Educating teachers (and others!) in being trauma-informed is truly changing the lives of not only our students we serve, but for ourselves.

She lives in Irmo and has two grown children, Luke and Kamryn, and some 4 legged “children”, Lucy, Gucci and Push Pop.