Network Against Domestic Abuse Announces Executive Director

The Network Against Domestic Abuse has announced the appointment of Karen Foley O’Connor as the new Executive Director of the organization. Karen will assume her role on February 18, succeeding Kathy Barron who retired in October after leading the agency for 13 years.

Karen’s experience includes a variety of leadership positions in her 25 year career with the Connecticut State Police where she most recently held one of the most trusted positions in public safety, Chief of Staff to Commissioner James Rovella, Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. In addition, Karen has been a leader in the law enforcement community both in family violence, officer training and statewide legislated family violence law enforcement, educating on the impact of victim trauma and advocating for a compassionate police response to victims throughout the State of Connecticut.

Debra Gish, President of The Network said, “On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are very excited to have Karen join The Network as its new Executive Director. She brings the perfect blend of experience as a trusted leader within the law enforcement community, as an advocate for victims’ safety as well as her strategic thinking abilities to bring The Network to the next level, leading both the agency and its staff. We look forward to working closely with Karen to advance the agency’s mission.”

Karen Foley O’Connor is looking forward to beginning her role as Executive Director of The Network. “After 25 years of service in law enforcement for the state of Connecticut, I am honored to be able to continue efforts to keep victims safe, promote healthy relationships and educate our youth about a subject I have been passionate about for decades. In my role as Executive Director, I'm committed to working in the north central Connecticut region to continue the success of the organization, as well as inspire new collaborative initiatives.” O’Connor said.

Ms. O’Connor earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Central Connecticut State University and her Master of Science from the University of New Haven. Karen lives in Ashford with her three children.

Established in 1985, The Network provides free services which include outreach, crisis intervention, support and counseling services, as well as a 15-bed emergency shelter for women and children with confidential 24-hour, seven day a week crisis hotline access. In the past few years, The Network has made great strides in implementing and promoting client and child related programs, updating curriculum to educate children in the areas of bullying, self-esteem, healthy friendships and teen dating violence. For more information, visit thenetworkct.org.