Karen Runde

What are you working on right now?
At Miller Center for Global Impact, I work to cultivate a thriving community of global changemakers. Leading an impactful venture can be isolating, especially for entrepreneurs in remote regions with limited access to resources. My role is to provide a supportive network where they can connect, learn, access catalytic investment, and navigate their journeys without going it alone.

I recently wrapped up Miller Center’s annual In-Residence program, which brings investment-ready entrepreneurs to Santa Clara University for in-person sessions, networking, and investment opportunities. Next, I’m preparing a multi-day leadership summit in Goa, India in early 2026, bringing together 26 entrepreneurs for intensive learning and collaboration.

Outside of Miller Center, I’m leading a second pilot of the CoShun water filter in Kenya. Working with Santa Clara University engineering students, we’re building and testing the next version of the filter, which we hope to install in two more schools in early 2026. The pilot was also captured in a short documentary film called Uplifted.

How have you benefited from the education at LUMES?
Being part of the LUMES master of science programme was pivotal for both my professional and personal journey. Once I decided to pursue a career in sustainability, I knew I needed an education that would give me the foundation to grow and thrive in this field.

What drew me to LUMES was its multidisciplinary approach and its focus on addressing both local and global environmental challenges. I loved the holistic learning, exploring the cultural, economic, environmental, political, and social dimensions of sustainability, without ever compromising academic rigor. The program challenged me intellectually in the best way.

I also valued the freedom to pursue thesis research that truly resonated with me, with guidance on how to dig deep and think critically. And I can’t overstate how transformative my classmates were: an international, diverse, and passionate group whose perspectives made every discussion richer. Being part of that community shaped my trajectory and set the tone for my life after graduation.

What motivates you in your daily work?
The people!

I feel incredibly honored to work with entrepreneurs who are tackling some of the world’s toughest environmental and social challenges across the globe. At Miller Center, my role is to support them in achieving their goals - whether through leadership guidance, strengthening organizational capacity, or providing catalytic capital to help them scale their businesses and grow as leaders.

I also feel fortunate to work at Santa Clara University and engage directly with Miller Center student fellows. Being around young changemakers who are deeply committed to creating a positive impact is inspiring. I love helping them think beyond just a career, encouraging them to connect their head and heart as they discern their vocation.

I firmly believe that when you do heart-led work, you naturally attract other incredible people. It’s a privilege to witness that energy, passion, and collaboration every day.

What do you see as the most important sustainability challenge currently?
If I had to highlight two critical sustainability challenges today, they would be climate change and gender inequality.

At Miller Center, we focus on impact enterprises driving climate resilience and women’s economic power. Climate resilience means supporting ventures that address the climate crisis where it hits hardest - people living in poverty - through clean energy, climate-smart agriculture, and safe water and sanitation.

For women’s economic power, we take a 360-degree view: it’s about women as leaders, women as customers, and women throughout the supply chain. Strengthening women’s participation at every level drives lasting social and economic impact.

What advice would you give to students in sustainability?
If you want to make an impact in sustainability, follow your curiosity, but aim for real-world change. 

Learn across disciplines, get hands-on experience, and build a network of people who challenge and inspire you. Stay resilient, adaptable, and lead with empathy; understanding both systems and people is what drives lasting impact.
 

Uplifted Documentary 

Watch the documentary Uplifted - about Karen Runde's testpilot CoShun, a water filter already tested in two school in Kenya with the aim to improve water access.