In 2022, WPLN launched its first-ever Fellowship for nonprofit management. This program pairs young women in higher education with early-stage nonprofit organizations who are training women to run for office in their states.

Meet Karina Rosas, our Fellow supporting Louisiana Women Lead. Karina is pursuing her Master’s in Public Policy with dual specialization in American Politics, International Relations & National Security at Pepperdine University. She is expecting to graduate in April 2023.

[WPLN]: What about WPLN's mission do you feel most passionate about? 

[Karina]: In California, where I reside, women are rising to leadership positions at all local, state, and federal levels. However, center-right-leaning women are less likely than their counterparts to have the network of support and sufficient campaign guidance to help them advance past the primary elections. I believe that WPLN and its state partners are changing that outcome, and we will see more diverse women hold public office soon!

What are you most looking forward to with your Fellowship? 

In my first month as a Fellow, I’ve witnessed incredible women with diverse experiences and skill sets from different states work together to execute the WPLN mission statement and see them do it very well. From developing and hosting webinars on practical career guidance like networking skills and resume tips to seminars on campaign basics and public speaking, WPLN and its state partners are doing incredible work. I’m grateful that I get to use my skill set acquired from the military to serve and help the organization and its state partners achieve their goals this year!

What do you see as one of the biggest challenges for women in leadership today?

The biggest challenge to women in leadership, especially at the federal level, is often having to advocate for themselves or prove that they are just as capable as their male peers. Often, women are held by a different standard, and I admire women like former US Ambassador Nikki Haley, who prove that women are influential leaders too.  

How do you plan to impact your community post-graduation? 

I love our country and the opportunities it has afforded my family that arrived in the United States in the late 1980s. For this reason, I plan to continue my military service in the California Air National Guard, where I will continue to mentor and equip the next generation of warfighters. In addition, I am considering pursuing a Ph.D. in International Studies and National Security with hopes of working in National Security.

What is your favorite quote by a woman who has impacted your life?

I think it is appropriate that I honor Queen Elizabeth II, whose legacy will not be forgotten. She proved worthy of the people’s trust, and I believe that trust is a principle that needs to be brought back into politics and policy.

“I have in sincerity pledged myself to your service, as so many of you are pledged to mine. Throughout all my life and with all my heart I shall strive to be worthy of your trust.” – Queen Elizabeth II.