This quarter, Missoula Reads is proud to highlight Karen Allen, a lifelong educator and advocate whose work and spirit embody the Missoula Reads Coalition’s belief that literacy is the lifeblood of a vibrant community. For Karen, literacy has always been more than reading and writing—it’s the foundation for understanding ourselves, connecting with others, and strengthening a community's civic health.

Karen’s lifelong interest in literacy began early, nurtured by a family that valued language, stories, and learning as pathways to opportunity. Surrounded by experiences that showcased literacy as “the basis for examining and understanding the world,” she built a professional life committed to ensuring that all children and families have access to those same opportunities. Her career has spanned roles supporting children, families, colleagues, and community partners—each reinforcing her conviction that literacy is at the heart of community well-being.

In her words, “A vibrant community depends on literate citizens.” Karen defines literacy through four essential elements: listening to understand, speaking to be understood, reading to learn about the ways of the world, and writing to share thoughts, feelings, and ideas. She reminds us that these foundational literacies underpin all others—math, science, the arts, and environmental literacy—serving as the connective tissue of lifelong learning and civic engagement.

Through Missoula Reads, Karen continues to champion literacy as a lever for community vitality. Her vision calls on all citizens to see themselves as active participants in creating a culture of reading, conversation, and shared understanding. We celebrate Karen’s enduring commitment to helping literacy flourish across our community—and thank her for inspiring us to listen, speak, read, and write together toward a stronger Missoula.