Karen Kaufmann

Professor at the Department of Public Policy at the University of California, Los Angeles, Karen Kaufmann is a distinguished scholar with a profound commitment to understanding the complexities of urban environments. She earned her Ph.D. in Political Science from UCLA, where she has returned to impart her knowledge and insights to the next generation of policy makers. Before her current role, she served as an Associate Professor at the University of Maryland, where she honed her teaching and research skills. Professor Kaufmann's research interests lie at the intersection of urban poverty, political behavior, and housing policy. Her work delves into the intricate power dynamics that shape cities and the multifaceted challenges that leaders face in crafting policies aimed at uplifting disadvantaged communities. Her scholarly contributions have been recognized and supported by various grants, underscoring the impact and relevance of her research. In addition to her research, Professor Kaufmann is an accomplished author, having published extensively on topics related to urban politics, race relations, and minority coalitions. Her publications are widely regarded for their depth and insight, contributing significantly to the discourse on public policy and diversity. At UCLA, she teaches a range of courses that reflect her research interests, including urban poverty, public policy, urban politics, and U.S. housing policy. Her teaching is characterized by a commitment to fostering critical thinking and encouraging students to engage with the pressing issues facing urban areas today. Professor Kaufmann's dedication to her field and her students is evident in her dynamic approach to both research and teaching. Her work continues to influence the field of public policy, particularly in understanding and addressing the needs of diverse urban populations.