Kari Suderley

A passionate learner, leader, and advocate for helping people reach their potential, Kari Suderley, originally from Ohio, relocated to Maine in 1999 and has spent her professional career helping individuals navigate educational, career, and life transitions while working to create more equitable and accessible systems for learners and communities.

Kari holds a Master’s degree in Higher Education and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Leadership Studies, both from the University of Maine. Prior to joining the university, she worked as a career and education advisor for a Maine nonprofit organization, helping individuals navigate educational and workforce opportunities. During this time, she earned a Career Advising certification from the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), fueling her passion for learner support and career development.

Since joining the University of Maine, Kari has focused on expanding access to college opportunities and supporting learner success through program development, strategic planning, partnership building, and cross-sector collaboration. Her work has included the creation of innovative summer programs and initiatives designed to reduce barriers to higher education. She values building strong relationships with stakeholders and has served on numerous campus committees and task forces dedicated to improving institutional systems and increasing access for underserved and underrepresented populations.

Her leadership extends beyond her institution. Kari served for three years as President of the New England Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships, the regional affiliate of the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships. In this role, she led organizational improvement efforts and supported networking and professional development opportunities for educators, administrators, and policy leaders working across secondary and postsecondary education. The aspect of the role she found most rewarding was fostering connections among professionals working in the liminal space between K–12 and higher education.

Known for her thoughtful leadership, deep curiosity, and empathetic approach, Kari combines a natural aptitude for problem solving with a commitment to helping others navigate complex educational environments. Drawing on her lived experience navigating adversity and complex systems, she advocates for accessibility, inclusion, and the creation of environments where individuals can thrive.

Outside of her professional work, Kari enjoys spending time in nature, reading, and engaging in creative pursuits including painting, crocheting, sculpting, and writing.