Karina Damian, SHRM- CP

Karina Damian, SHRM-CP, is a highly accomplished Human Resources Supervisor with more than 10 years of progressive experience in human resources and a strong background in strategic HR leadership within the nonprofit sector. In her current role, she provides oversight of comprehensive HR operations, including onboarding and offboarding, employee relations, performance management, employee coaching, professional development, training, benefits administration, and workforce support. Damian serves as a trusted advisor and strategic business partner to organizational leadership, collaborating on key initiatives, organizational projects, and people strategies designed to strengthen employee engagement, organizational effectiveness, and long-term success. She is also responsible for managing open enrollment activities in partnership with insurance providers, helping ensure employees have access to the information and resources they need to make informed benefits decisions.

Throughout her career, Damian has demonstrated a commitment to building strong workplace cultures while balancing the needs of employees and organizational leadership. Her experience encompasses employee relations, talent acquisition, performance and talent management, HR strategy, policy development, compliance, HRIS administration, benefits management, and organizational development. She began building her HR expertise through roles with Goodwill Central Texas and Travis County before advancing into human resources consulting and business partnering. These experiences have strengthened her ability to navigate complex workplace matters, coach leaders, identify opportunities for improvement, and implement practical HR solutions that support both people and business objectives. Damian earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from St. Mary's University, where she double majored in Finance and Risk Management, and she holds the SHRM-CP professional certification. She also completed the Hispanic Austin Leadership Program through the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, certified through St. Edward's University, reflecting her continued investment in leadership development and community engagement.

As a first-generation Latina, Damian credits much of her professional success to resilience, purpose, self-belief, and hard work. Her personal journey has shaped a leadership philosophy centered on creating pathways for others, encouraging professional growth, and ensuring that employees feel respected, valued, and empowered to contribute their best work. She is particularly passionate about people-centered leadership and building intentional organizational cultures where employees and leaders can thrive together. Damian continues to invest in her own growth through executive coaching and participation in a mentorship program, while also serving as a mentor and advocate for professional development. Her commitment to leadership, service, and community impact was further recognized in 2026 when she was named a Top Three Finalist for the Latina Legacy Award in the Education category. Through her career and community involvement, Damian strives to leave a meaningful legacy by opening doors, developing people, and helping create stronger, more inclusive workplaces.