Rep. Karen Alzate
Karen Alzate is a dedicated public servant and community advocate currently serving as a State Representative for District 60, representing Pawtucket and Central Falls in the Rhode Island House of Representatives. In her role, she serves as Chair of the House Special Legislation Committee, Second Vice Chair of the House Labor Committee, and a member of the House Finance Committee. As a first-generation Latina and a lifelong resident of her district, Karen has been a strong voice for equity, women’s health, and immigrant rights—championing landmark legislation such as menopause workplace protections, driver’s licenses for undocumented residents, and in-state tuition for immigrant students.
Her commitment to leadership and lifelong learning is reflected in her academic achievements. Karen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Rhode Island College, a Master’s degree in Community Development from Roger Williams University, and an Executive Education Certificate from the Harvard Kennedy School (July 2024 cohort). She is also an alumna of the New Leaders Council, the Latina Leadership Institute, and Leadership Rhode Island, as well as a member of the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators and the Transatlantic Inclusion Leaders Network under the German Marshall Fund.
Beyond her legislative work, Karen’s dedication to service extends into community and philanthropic efforts. She has supported the United Way of Rhode Island’s “Invest United” campaign, hosted a State House forum on women’s health, and served on the Rhode Island House Task Force for COVID-19 Vaccine to address public health challenges during the pandemic. In recognition of her tireless advocacy for equity and community empowerment, she received the Susan Farmer Advocacy Award. Through her leadership, Karen continues to represent and uplift Rhode Island’s most diverse and resilient communities.
• Credentials are academic and leadership-based
• B.A. in Political Science from Rhode Island College
• M.A. in Community Development from Roger Williams University.
• Transatlantic Inclusive Leaders Network Fellow
• Women’s Fund of Rhode Island Susan Farmer Advocacy Award
• Leadership Rhode Island “Rho II” program in 2021
• Rodel Institute (Rhode Island class / fellow)
• Leadership Rhode Island
• Latina Leadership Institute
• Transatlantic Inclusion Leaders Network (German Marshall Fund)
• National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL)
• Rhode Island General Assembly committees & caucuses
• United Way of Rhode Island’s “Invest United” campaign
• Organized women’s health forum at the State House
• Served on the Rhode Island House Task Force for COVID-19 Vaccine
• Susan Farmer Advocacy Award
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to the invaluable mentorship I received from a fearless Latina leader who believed in my potential before I fully believed in myself. Her guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and run for public office. Throughout my journey, she has continued to serve as a source of wisdom and strength, reminding me of the power of representation and the importance of uplifting others as we rise.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to lead with purpose and authenticity. I was reminded that true leadership isn’t about titles or recognition—it’s about staying grounded in your values, listening to your community, and using your voice to create meaningful change. Staying authentic to who I am and why I serve has guided every decision I’ve made, even in the face of challenges.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to go after what you want fearlessly. Don’t wait for permission or the “perfect moment” — step forward with confidence and conviction. There will be challenges, but every obstacle is an opportunity to grow stronger and more resilient. Surround yourself with mentors who believe in you, stay true to your values, and never underestimate the power of your voice. Leadership isn’t about fitting into a mold; it’s about breaking barriers and creating space for others to follow.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me, both in my work and personal life, are integrity, compassion, and service. Integrity guides every decision I make — it means being honest, transparent, and accountable to the people I serve. Compassion reminds me to lead with empathy and to see beyond policies into the real lives they affect. And service is at the heart of everything I do; it’s about using my platform to uplift others, especially those whose voices are often unheard. Together, these values keep me grounded, focused, and faithful to my purpose as a public servant and community advocate.